elaine wrote:
> Yesterday I put my dog of over 15 years down. It was the gentlest of
> goodbyes. The vet and his assistant were wonderful. I held her as
> they tenderly jabbed the vein in her front leg -- 10 seconds later it
> was all over with an overdose of anesthetic. Oh we, as humans, could
> have that option!
>
> So for all you pet owners in this group who probably wrestle with the
> notion of putting pets down - please know, it's not a bad way to go.
>
> Went home and cooked liver for my family. Now that was bad -- I
> usually love liver but the meal just didn't taste the same, as I
> suppose any meal would under the circumstances.
>
> Elaine

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