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

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here,
that pet goes to The 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 that 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.