Rainbow Bridge

A family friend sent us a very touching card with their deepest sympathy for the death of George. Inside the card was a copy of an article discussing the beliefs of pets going to heaven in the afterlife. It was a nice comforting and informative article. It really got me thinking though - Do pet's go to heaven? There are references to two different, but similar, bible translations trying to answer this question. They differ when taken from Hebrew to the English translation. The distinction lies when interpretation of whether pet's fall under "living creature" or "living soul." I believe the passage of Luke 3:6 where "All flesh shall see the salvation of God." Animals are guided by the great Saint Francis of Assisi. The article also touches on a poem called Rainbow Bridge written anonymously. I found the article and posted it below to share with you.

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....

Also, during my research I found the Rainbow Bridge National Monument. This is the world's largest natural bridge sacred to American Indian tribes. Next time you are near Arizona, stop here to check out this amazing site!