Losing a Pet is Like Losing a Member of the Family

Dogs do mourn, and there is a theory that is talked about amongst breeders and vets that it is also better, when you know that you are going to have to send your friend to the Rainbow Bridge; that it is better to take your surviving dogs along and let them smell their departed friend, that it gives them peace to know what has happened, and so that they won't search in vain for their friend. I have had friends who have just two newfoundlands, and the loss of the one dog is devastating to the other newf in the family. It is my opinion that you should get another Newfoundland in those circumstances, for sure, not just for yourself but for the poor lost soul that is left behind to mourn. 

The circle of life goes round and round...When one has lost a Newfoundland dog, painful as it is, the question always lies at the back of the mind, is it time to get another one?  Since I got my first Newfoundland in 1987, I have never been without one, and in these days, even though my numbers have been reduced, I still will always have room in my heart, and make room in my home, for at least two.

The Rainbow Bridge poem is comforting for those who lose a dog (or any pet). You can buy Rainbow Bridge Sympathy cards in many different breeds and keep them on hand to send to your friends when they lose a pet. If you've never read the "Rainbow bridge" poem here it is in its entirety:

THE RAINBOW BRIDGE....
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....

...Author unknown...

The origins of this beautiful poem have been lost somewhere...if anyone does know of the author I sure would like to find out.

All I know is, if there is no heaven for dogs, then I'm not going!