Pet Loss Poetry; sometimes it is difficult to find the right words to express our sorrow

Treat me kindly, my beloved master, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart of me.

Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick your hand between the blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me do.

Speak to me often, for your voice is the world's sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footstep falls upon my waiting ear.

When it is cold and wet, please take me inside... for I am now a domesticated animal, no longer used to bitter elements... and I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth... though had you no home, I would rather follow you through ice and snow than rest upon the softest pillow in the warmest home in all the land... for you are my god... and I am your devoted worshiper.

Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you were it dry, I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst. Feed me clean food, that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding, to walk by your side, and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life, should your life be in danger.

And, beloved master, should the Great Master see fit to deprive me of my health or sight, do not turn me away from you. Rather hold me gently in your arms as skilled hands grant me the merciful boon of eternal rest...and I will leave you knowing with the last breath I drew, my fate was ever safest in your hands.

You have a special place Dear Lord,
that I know you'll always keep.
A special place reserved for dogs,
when they quietly fall asleep.

With large and airy kennels,
and a yard for hiding bones.
With maybe a little babbling creek,
that chatters over stones.

With wide green fields and flowers,
for those who never knew.
about running freely under,
Your sky of perfect blue.

Lord, I know You keep this Special Place,
And so to you I Pray.
For one Special Rottweiler,
Who quietly died today.

She was full of strength & love,
and so very, very wise.
The puppy look she once had,
Had long since left her eyes.

She is dearly missed my Lord,
By a very good friend of mine.
She went to join her ancestors,
To Your land that is Devine.

So, speak to Crimmy softly please,
And give her a warm hello.
She's a Special gift to you Dear Lord,
From Brenda, who loved her so.

They come into our lives for such a short time
A time we wouldn't trade not even for a dime
Then before you know it the years have flown by
And then all of the sudden we're saying good-bye

It wasn't that long ago we said our good-byes
We held on to you tight as you closed your eyes
Your spirit has flown home on the wings of a dove
Into God's loving arm's; in heaven above

Over the days we've shed many tears
But the memories we have will live on for years
We feel your presence and we know that your near
You're keeping us safe and calming our fear

We think about memories from years past
When you were young and strong and ran so fast
We remember all the great times that we all had
How you always made us happy never made us mad

They were the best and happiest years we had
We'll always look back on them and never be sad
We look forward to the time we'll be together again
And we thank the Lord for such a great friend

Now you run and play up in Heaven above
Cradled in God's arms covered with his love
Playing by the Bridge waiting for the day
We come down thru the meadow to the bridge to stay

The love that you showed us we'll never forget
Because to us you're one very special pet
You're like a star in the dark of night
Always watching over us with the Lord's light

So now we take time to remember our best friend
Who will always be with us even to the end
We'll always remember you the way you were
One big lovable huggable pile of fur

I miss you so much, my four-legged friend
I ask myself each day, if the pain will ever end
Your loss is so hard, for one person to bear
Because we were a team, an inseparable pair

You were by my side, when I got up each day
Waiting so patiently, to go out to play
You were there each night, when I got home
Waiting to go to the park, where you could roam

You always knew, if I was having a bad day
So you'd snuggle up close, and try to get me to play
If that didn't work, you'd put your head in my lap
Then make yourself comfortable, and take a nap

One way or another, you would brighten my day
Like only you could, you had a special way
You gave me a lifetime, of memories to hold
Through all the years ahead, till I am gray and old

I promise I'll see you, again one day
When we'll be together again, to go run and play
Your loss is a cross, I will just have to bear
Because you and I know, we were an inseparable pair

Hear our humble prayer for our friends the animals, especially for animals who are suffering; for any that are hunted or lost, or deserted or frightened or hungry; for all that must be put to death.

We entreat for them all love and compassion and for those who deal with them we ask a heart of compassion and gentle hands and kindly words.

Make us,ourselves, to be true friends to animals and so to share the blessings of the merciful.

As much as I loved the life we had and all the times we played,
I was so very tired and knew my time on earth would fade.
I saw a wondrous image then of a place that's trouble-free
Where all of us can meet again to spend eternity.

I saw the most beautiful Rainbow, and on the other side
Were meadows rich and beautiful -- lush and green and wide!
And running through the meadows as far as the eye could see
Were animals of every sort as healthy as could be!
My own tired, failing body was fresh and healed and new
And I wanted to go run with them, but I had something left to do.

I needed to reach out to you, to tell you I'm alright
That this place is truly wonderful, then a bright Glow pierced the night.
'Twas the Glow of many Candles shining bright and strong and bold
And I knew then that it held your love in its brilliant shades of gold.

For although we may not be together in the way we used to be,
We are still connected by a cord no eye can see.
So whenever you need to find me, we're never far apart
If you look beyond the Rainbow and listen with your heart.

You're filled with anger and disbelief
You ask why take your pet; she never hurt a leaf
Nothing makes sense; as you sit down and cry
But only the good Lord; can really say why

Into all our lives; a little rain must fall
And we must be strong; to answer that call
It usually happens; when are guard is down
Then your feelings go on; a merry-go-round

You must hold on tight now; with all your might
Because it's always darkest; before the light
Stop and take a look; down deep in your heart
It's there you'll find the strength; to make a new start

Your little one is now home; in Heaven above
Cradled in God's arms; covered with his love
This isn't the end; you'll see her one day
And on that special day; you'll be together to stay

My family brought me home, cradled in their arms.
They cuddled me and smiled at me, and said I was full of charm.
They played with me and laughed with me, they showered me with toys,
I sure do love my family, especially the girls and boys.

The children loved to feed me, they gave me special treats,
They even let me sleep with them - all snuggled in the sheets.
I used to go for walks, often several times a day,
They even fought to hold the leash, I'm very proud to say.

These are the things I'll not forget - a cherished memory,
because I now live in the shelter - without my family.
They used to laugh and praise me, when I played with that old shoe,
But I didn't know the difference between the old ones and the new.

The kids and I would grab a rag, for hours we would tug,
So I thought that I did the right thing when I chewed the bedroom rug.
They said that I was out of control, and would have to live outside,
And this I didn't understand, although I tried and tried.

The walks stopped one by one, they said they hadn't time.
I wish that I could change things, I wish I knew my crime.
My life became so lonely, in the backyard, on a chain.
I barked and barked all day long, to keep from going insane.

So they brought me to the shelter, but were embarrassed to say why,
They said I caused an allergy, and then kissed me goodbye.
If I'd only had some classes, as a little pup,
I wouldn't have been hard to handle when I was all grown up.

"You only have one day left", I heard the worker say.
Does that mean I have a second chance?
DO I GO HOME TODAY?

Submitted by d-artist

Don't mourn for me
dear owner, kind and true.
I know that you will miss me
As I will also think of you.

We shared so many secrets;
those you whispered in my ear.
I've kept those secrets for you
lest any one would hear.

And in return you've kept me
from being turned out in the cold.
You've fed, watered, & cared for me
while we both grew old.

But God had called & needs me;
He says that it is time
I claim that sweet reward
in a kinder, greener clime.

He promises sweeter clover,
clear water, rich and pure
I'll never have to suffer
from wounds that humans cannot cure.

I'll romp and play all day
with others he has called hither.
I'll have so many new friends
that will scratch upon my wither.

I'll be watching out for you
when comes your judgement day
and together towards the pearly gates
we again will ride away!"

With heavy hearts and a tear in our eyes,
After all these years, we must say goodbye.
Please understand we've done all we could,
If there was anything we could do, you know we would.

I'm sitting right here gently rubbing your ears,
While I talk to you softly, trying to hold back the tears.
The memories you gave us we'll never forget,
Especially the ones of the day we met.

One last hug and one last kiss,
You have no idea how much you'll be missed.
To look into your eyes this one last time...
You tell me it's ok, you know it's your time.

Close your eyes now, and go to sleep,
We'll pray to the Lord your soul he'll keep.
Go in peace now, our good friend,
We'll stay right here with you until the end.

Dream of that special day and time,
When we'll meet at the Bridge and all will be fine.
We'll run and play, side by side,
With a soft warm feeling deep down inside.

Your memory will live on in each one of us,
You'll always be number one to all of us.
Have a safe journey through the night,
I promise when you awake, you'll be in God's light.

So with heavy hearts, and tears in our eyes...
Just for now my friend, we say goodbye.

My best friend closed his eyes last night,
As his head was in my hand.
The Doctors said he was in pain,
And it was hard for him to stand.

The thoughts that scurried through my head,
As I cradled him in my arms.
Were of his younger, puppy years,
And OH...his many charms.

Today, there was no gentle nudge
With an intense "I love you gaze",
Only a heart thats filled with tears
Remembering our joy filled days.

But an Angel just appeared to me,
And he said, "You should cry no more,
GOD also loves our canine friends,
HE's installed a 'doggy-door"!

I got to the gate of heaven yesterday after we said goodbye.
I began to miss you terribly, because I heard you cry.
Suddenly there was an angel and she asked me to enter heaven's gate.
I asked her if I could stay outside for someone who'd be late.

I wouldn't make much noise you see, I wouldn't bark or howl,
I'll only wait here patiently and play with my tennis ball.
The angel said I could stay right here and wait for you to come,
Because heaven just wouldn't be heaven if I went in alone.

So I'll wait here, you take your time, but keep me in your heart.
Because heaven just wouldn't be heaven without you to warm my heart.

I know that you miss me, at times you are sad.
You think you should have done more as a Mom or a Dad.
But I've something to tell you, so you won't feel so bad.
You gave me the best life I could ever have had.

Now that I'm in heaven, I don't feel the pain.
It's always warm and sunny here, never any rain.
I just have to thank you, that the memories are glad.
For you gave me the best life I could ever have had.

The times that were painful are just lessons learned.
I've forgotten the sad times, with the freedom I've earned.
Just know in your heart, with faith iron-clad...
That you gave me the best life I could ever have had.

So this is where we part, My Friend,
And you'll run on, around the bend.
Gone from sight, but not from mind,
new pleasures there you'll surely find.

I will go on; I'll find the strength,
Life measures quality, not its length.
One long embrace before you leave,
Share one last look, before I grieve.

There are others, that much is true,
But they be they, and they aren't you.
And I, fair, impartial, or so I thought,
Will remember well all you've taught.

Your place I'll hold, you will be missed,
The fur I stroked, the nose I kissed.
And as you journey to your final rest,
Take with you this...I loved you best.

They say memories are golden
well maybe that is true.
I never wanted memories,
I only wanted you.

A million times I needed you,
a million times I cried.
If love alone could have saved you
you never would have died.

In life I loved you dearly,
In death I love you still.
In my heart you hold a place
no one could ever fill.

If tears could build a stairway
and heartache make a lane,
I'd walk the path to heaven
and bring you back again.

Our family chain is broken,
and nothing seems the same.
But as God calls us one by one,
the chain will link again.

Before I grow too frail and weak,
And all that's left is peace in sleep,
I know you'll do what must be done,
To end this fight that can't be won.

I don't fear death as humans do,
So let me try to comfort you,
Come: let us take a quiet stroll,
And share some quietness soul to soul.

No need for words 'twixt you and I,
No need to say a last good-bye,
We've grown so close in mind and heart,
It seems so cruel that we must part.

Be sure I sense the pain you'll feel,
Without me walking at your heel,
The days will feel full of despair,
Your Puppy simply won't be there.

In time the pain will slowly wane,
You'll think of me and smile again,
You'll speak with love and pride of me,
Your extra special much loved puppy.

Now take me where my needs they'll tend,
And stay there with me till the end,
Hold me close with soft good-byes,
'Till life's bright light has left my eyes.

The final sound I need to hear,
Is your soft voice upon my ear.
Your loving face will fade and dim,
As the rush of heaven closes in.

If it should be that I grow frail and weak,
And pain should keep me from my sleep,
Then you must do what must be done.
For this last battle cannot be won.

You will be sad - I understand,
But then don't grief let stay your hand,
For this day more than all the rest,
Your love for me must stand the test.

We've had so many happy years,
What is to come holds no fears.
Take me where my needs they'll tend,
Only stay with me until the end.

And hold me close and speak to me
Until my eyes no longer see.

I know in time you too will see
It is a kindness you've done for me.
Although my tail it's last has waved,
From pain and suffering I've been saved.

Please do not grieve that it was you,
who had this painful thing to do.
We've been so close we two these years
Don't let your heart hold any tears.

Warm light coming from far below,
Twinkling, sparkling is the candle's glow.
All is well up on the ridge,
The place we know as Rainbow Bridge.

Furbabies sleeping in heaven's light,
Tended by candles in the night.
Peaceful dreams be theirs to keep,
As they slumber in this night so deep.

Hearts on earth that miss them so,
Take comfort in the candle's glow.
Watching for them in skies above,
Bound eternally by a cord of love.

They handled themselves with beauty & grace
And who could ever forget that beautiful face
Whether at work; or at home; whatever the test
They always worked hard; and did their best

They were real champions; at work or at play
But their lives were cut short; suddenly one day
While working on the job with their partner one day
They put themselves out on a limb; out into harms way

They gave the ultimate sacrifice; any dog can give
They gave up their life; so someone could live
The best of their breed; as his partner and anyone would say
Many hearts are now broken; that he had to prove it this way

Now as the trees are blowing in the gentle breeze
The sun is shining; thru the leaves on the trees
The meadows are green; and the grass grows tall
Off in the distance they can see a waterfall

As they look over the falls; down through the creek
The water flows gently; as a rabbit sneaks a peek
Far up above; in the deep blue sky
They see the birds soar high; as they fly by

They see animals playing; at the bridge by a waterfall
Chasing each other; and just having a ball
They play all day; from morning to night
There's no more rain; just warm sunlight

Off in the distance; they hear trumpets blow
Then all the animals look up; and notice a bright glow
The harps would play and the angels would sing
As they know they've come home; they've earned their wings

We remember that they died; in the line of duty
And are now with the Lord; sharing in heaven's beauty
Off to the meadows now; where they can play and roam free
With an occasional rest stop; under a tall oak tree

No more bad guys to chase; or bullets to take
Just a run through the meadow; down to the lake
A quick splash in the water; then back to the shore
Then it's off to the forest; to go play some more

These special dogs are back home; up in heaven above
They're cradled in God's arm's; and covered with His love
We'll light a candle for all of them; in the dark of night
In loving memory of all; these very special knights

It's never easy to say good-byes,
When they speak to us with their eyes.
When their bodies are tired, weak and old,
And the love we've shared becomes pure gold.

The measure of friendship is put to the test,
When the showing is finished and it's time to rest.
From deep in their hearts their eyes will ask,
" Please ease my pain " - your most difficult task.

There's joy in the memories, treasure them all,
Winning a ribbon or chasing a ball.
So go now, you're free, to run and to play,
Where the sun always shines, day after day.

For the Master you serve now is gracious and fair,
And he'll love you and guide you until I am there.

I miss you so much; my four-legged friend
I ask myself each day; if the pain will ever end
Your loss is so hard; for one person to bear
Because we were a team; an inseparable pair

You were by my side; when I got up each day
Waiting so patiently; to go out and play
You were there each night; when I got home
waiting to go to the park; where you could roam

You always knew; if I was having a bad day
So you'd snuggle up close; and try to get me to play
If that didn't work; you'd put your head in my lap
Then make yourself comfortable; and take a nap

One way or another you; would brighten my day
Like only you could; you had a special way
You gave me a lifetime; of memories to hold
Through all the years ahead; till I'm gray and old

I promise I'll see you; again one day
When we'll be together again; to go run and play
Your loss is a cross; I will just have to bear
Because you and I know; we're an inseparable pair

I found the cutest pre-owned dog
At our local pound.
He looked to me as if to say
Please don't let them put me down.

His tail wagged --- I saw him smile
Happy as can be.
Did I come to pick a dog today
Or did he just pick me?

I decided to check out the other dogs
Before making up my mind.
But no other seemed to greet me
Like that little friend of mine.

A pre-owned pet that someone left
Perhaps 3 years old or more.
But I didn't care how old he was
As we both walked out the door.

And as we got into my pre-owned car
Just before I started to drive.
We both looked at one another
Knowing he'd always be by my side.

There's something missing in my home,
I feel it every night.
I know it will take time and strength,
Before things feel quite right.

But just for now, I need to mourn,
My heart - it needs to mend.
Though some may say "It's just a pet,"
I know I've lost a friend.

You've brought such laughter to my home,
And richness to my days...
A constant friend through joy or loss,
With gentle loving ways.

Companion, pal, and confidant,
A friend I won't forget...
You'll live for always in my heart,
My Sweet Forever Pet.

Hello. I've been expecting you for quite some time.
Here, come sit beside us for awhile .
and let me tell you about this old friend of mine.
She might look tattered or maybe old
But I won't say goodbye until you've been told.
She had the brightest eyes I had ever seen,
And wore a beautiful fur coat that would out shine a queen .
She was never prissy but walked with an aire ......
And oh so polite, you could take her most anywhere.
She could run like the wind and could catch anything she chased
But she protected and sat with me when I had problems to face.
You could not find a friend nearly so dear.
Because no matter the trouble she always stayed near...
She has never asked for much from me;
Just to love and respect her and I think you'll agree .
To give her a good meal plus a nice warm bed is not much to ask ;
When she has given me all her love and to her this was no task.
Now I understand you have a schedule to keep.
But I have a small favor before she nods off to sleep.
Please fold your wings around her and let her feel young while in no pain ;
Dear Guardian Angel of Pets ,
please keep her safe and happy until I see her again.

And God asked the feline spirit
Are you ready to come home?
Oh, yes, quite so, replied the precious soul
And, as a cat, you know I am most able
To decide anything for myself.

Are you coming then? asked God.
Soon, replied the whiskered angel
But I must come slowly
For my human friends are troubled
For you see, they need me, quite certainly.

But don't they understand? asked God
That you'll never leave them?
That your souls are intertwined. For all eternity?
That nothing is created or destroyed?
It just is....forever and ever and ever.

Eventually they will understand,
Replied the glorious cat
For I will whisper into their hearts
That I am always with them
I just am....forever and ever and ever.

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Oh, when we get to Heaven
We hope that we will find
The souls that once we loved
Who left us all behind.

Some left us at the right time
They left this world in peace
Others left too sudden
Without the chance to say Goodbye,
They were gone before we had
The chance to even cry.

There's a special place for grownups
A special place for kids
Me? I'll be on the other side
The side called Rainbow Bridge.

Across the dark green meadow
A'top the hills I'll run
Where the colors from the rainbow
Glitter from the sun.

And there I'll find my sweetheart
Running fast toward me
In my arms where he belongs
for all eternity.

I lost a special friend today
the kind you can't replace,
and looking at her empty bed
I still can see her face.

I see the endless energy
the sparkling puppy eyes,
Not the tired, fragile friend
I had to bid goodbye.

I know she's in a special place
our Lord has for such friends,
Where meadows, fields & flowers
help make them strong and whole again.

I remember how she'd run to me
to play her favorite puppy game,
And how her ears would perk right up
When she heard me call her name.

But as those precious years went by
And we both aged and grew,
I'd find her often slowing down
But-we had still so much to do.

Easter stands out in my mind
As she would always find the eggs,
The kids would have their baskets full
And she'd be there to beg.

Then there was the Christmas tree
with lots of candy canes,
As she devoured all she could
Surely, hoping it'd still look the same!

She did her guard dog duty well
Each time the doorbell rang,
Strangers surely couldn't see
My gentle friend--behind those fangs.

I've noticed in the recent times
Her ears were not as sharp,
Where is that running ball of fur
The years have shown their mark.

She started sleeping next to me
Was this her special clue,
Because she felt the end was near
I only wish I knew.

My Candy was a special dog
I know she gave her best,
But as I looked deep into her eyes
I knew it was time, for her to rest.

It will truely be a struggle
I don't know how I'll face each day,
I have to let her go--I know
But in my heart she'll always stay.

This special place our Lord has made
Health and strength, wait for her there,
So with my very special friend
I'm sending all my prayers.

I know she's watching over me
She'll be with me when I cry,
So with one more kiss on her beloved head
I told my Candy Dog goodbye.

If it should be that I grow frail and weak
And pain should keep me from my sleep,
Then will you do what must be done,
For this -- the last battle -- can't be won.
You will be sad I understand,
But don't let grief then stay your hand,
For on this day, more than the rest,
Your love and friendship must stand the test.
We have had so many happy years,
You wouldn't want me to suffer so.
When the time comes, please, let me go.
Take me to where to my needs they'll tend,
Only, stay with me till the end
And hold me firm and speak to me
Until my eyes no longer see.
I know in time you will agree
It is a kindness you do to me.
Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I have been saved.
Don't grieve that it must be you
Who has to decide this thing to do;
We've been so close -- we two -- these years,
Don't let your heart hold any tears.

I'm getting on in years, my coat is turning grey.
My eyes have lost their lustre, my hearing's just okay.
I spend my whole day dreaming of conquests in my past.
Lying near a sunny window, waiting for its warm repast.

I remember our first visit, I was coming to you free.
Hoping you would take me in and keep me company.
I wasn't young or handsome, two years I'd roamed the street.
There were scars upon my face, I hobbled on my feet.

I could sense your disappointment as I left my prison cage.
Oh, I hoped you would accept me, and look beyond my age.
You took me out of pity, I accepted without shame.
Then you grew to love me, and I admit the same.

I have shared with you your laughter, you have wet my fur with tears.
We've come to know each other well, throughout these many years.
Just one more hug this morning, before you drive away.
And know I'll think about you throughout your busy day.

The time we've left together, is a treasured time at that.
My heart is yours forever, I promise....This Old Cat.

The time has come I think you know
The Lord is calling so I must go
I love you so much; I wish it wasn't so
I wish I could stay; I don't want to go

You're the best family a dog ever had
So kind and gentle, never mean or mad
I'll never forget the day that we met
I was so lucky to become your pet

You opened your door and showed me your heart
I'll never forget you; we'll never part
You loved me and cared for me over the years
You taught me everything and took away my fears

The Lord is calling now I must go
But before I go I want you to know
I know it hurts to lose a friend
But I'll always be with you even to the end.

Lord, when the time comes please help me be strong
My furry friend is sick; something's terribly wrong
The vet checked her over; there's nothing he can do
I'm afraid soon I'll be sending her; home to You

Please take her back home; on the wings of a dove
Into Your loving arms; up in heaven above
Take her to a meadow; where she can play and run free
Under bright sunlight; among the green grass and trees

She's been a part of my life now; for so many years
I'll miss her so much; my eyes are filling with tears
Please give me the courage; to tell her good-bye
As I know she'll watch over me; through her loving eyes

I'll never forget her; I'll see her one day
Tell her we'll meet at the Bridge; then we'll go play
I'll cherish the memories; of the time we both had
they'll put a smile on my face; then I won't feel as bad