How I Learned About The Rainbow Bridge

Every year, many animal lovers observe Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day, a heartfelt tribute to beloved pets who have crossed over, awaiting us in a place of peace and reunion. This special day offers a moment to pause, remember, and celebrate the extraordinary love and companionship our animal companions brought into our lives.

My cat, Rascal, from fluffy kitten to fluffy old man.

Our pets are so much more than animals. They're trusted confidants, everyday comedians, comforters in difficult times, and members of our families. When they pass away, the emptiness we feel is very real. Those who say, "It's just a cat" don't understand the fullness of the loss, the depths of connection shared with such special souls. Society sometimes downplays this kind of grief, but it’s important to acknowledge that the emotional connection we share with our pets is powerful, profound, and entirely valid. As highlighted by pet grief experts, “The emotional bond with pets can be deep… recognizing and validating these emotions is important.” (The Guardian)

I will admit, I knew nothing of the Rainbow Bridge until I was sent a version of the poem by a dear friend when my 21-year-old cat, Rascal, passed unexpectedly in a freak accident in my home. It's been a little over two years, and even now reading through these poems for research for this post, I found myself tearing up again, imagining the Rainbow Bridge and being reunited with my Rascal. He was my first-ever kitten that was solely "mine" when I was 10 years old. We grew up together, and the loss was incredibly difficult to navigate. The Rainbow Bridge poem offered some semblance of comfort, and I was grateful for my friend sending it to me.  

The Rainbow Bridge is a beloved concept, born in a touching prose-poem written by Edna Clyne-Rekhy in 1959, that describes a serene meadow where pets, restored to health and happiness, wait for their humans. When we pass on, we’re reunited with our cherished companions, side by side, crossing the bridge into peace together. (Wikipedia) It’s a beautiful metaphor for love that transcends life and death.

We've gathered a few quotes that resonate with the sentiments of The Rainbow Bridge:

• “What we have once enjoyed we can never lose; all that we have loved deeply, becomes a part of us.” — Helen Keller 

• “Grief is the last act of love we have to give to those we loved. Where there is deep grief, there was great love.” 

• “Grief is like the ocean; it comes on waves ebbing and flowing. Sometimes the water is calm, and sometimes it is overwhelming. All we can do is learn to swim.” — Vicki Harrison 

• “Sometimes losing a pet is more painful than losing a human because in the case of the pet, you were not pretending to love it.” — Amy Sedaris 

How to Process the Grief

For those navigating pet loss, here are thoughtful ways to remember and heal:

1. Allow Yourself to Feel
   Grief for a pet is as valid as for any human loved one. “Emotions are real… grieving a pet is a normal and natural reaction.” (Verywell Mind, SELF)

2. Create a Meaningful Memorial
   Build a memory box with photos, their collar, favorite toys, paw prints, or even jewelry that contains a keepsake. These tangible memories provide comfort and a physical connection to your beloved pet. 

3. Share Your Feelings
   Whether with friends who understand, online pet-loss communities, or a therapist, talking about your loss can ease the burden. Don’t let others minimize your grief—it matters deeply. (SELF, The Guardian)

4. Express Your Love Creatively
   Write a letter, craft a poem, plant a tree, or adopt a memorial tradition that fits your pet’s personality and your own heart. Often, donating to the shelter or rescue where the pet was adopted in their name is a wonderful way to remember and honor our companions.

5. Give Yourself Time and Grace
   Remember: there’s no “correct” timeline for grief. As one expert puts it, “...grief is a complex, long-term process… be kind to yourself.” (The Washington Post)

Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day isn’t just about mourning—it’s about honoring the depth of love our pets gave us, and the lasting imprint they left on our hearts. Each wag of a tail, soft purr, or gentle nuzzle stays with us forever. As Helen Keller reminds us, what we deeply love never truly leaves us—it becomes part of who we are.

May this day offer a comforting space to remember, reflect, and heal—surrounded by memories and love that time can’t erase.