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The Rainbow Bridge Poem: Full Text, Meaning, and A Free Printable PDF (2026 Healing Guide)
When we lose a beloved companion, the world keeps spinning, yet ours comes to a sudden, painful halt.
There is a quiet, sun-drenched place just on this side of dog heaven—a meadow where the grass is always green. We call it The Rainbow Bridge.
If you are currently grieving the loss of a dog or cat, the silence in your home can feel deafening. The empty spot on the rug feels like a hole in your heart.
In these moments, millions have found a flicker of light in a timeless piece of writing. Whether you need comfort for yourself or are searching for pet loss quotes for a friend, this poem offers a beautiful promise of reunion.
Below, you will find the original Rainbow Bridge poem, a visual video tribute, and a free printable PDF to help you honor their legacy in 2026.
✦ The Poem Sanctuary ✦
🌈 The Poem “The Rainbow Bridge”: Original Full Text
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…
What Does the Rainbow Bridge Mean? A Deeper Look
The Rainbow Bridge isn’t just a place; it is a promise. It speaks to the three stages of the soul’s journey, offering comfort to anyone asking, “Is my dog okay?” or “Do they miss me?”
Let’s walk through the poem, verse by verse.
Part 1: The Restoration
“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.”
No More Pain.
This is the most comforting realization for any pet parent who had to make the hard decision of euthanasia. Imagine your senior Golden Retriever, who struggled with arthritis, now running effortlessly through the grass without a limp. Imagine your Bulldog, who used to get tired so easily, now breathing freely and charging ahead with the energy of a puppy. Imagine your Cat, who fought kidney failure, now basking in the sun with full strength and a shiny coat. In this place, their bodies are perfect again.
Part 2: The Waiting
“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.”
You Are Not Forgotten.
One of our deepest fears is that our pets will forget us as time passes. This verse assures us that their love is eternal. They aren’t lonely—they have each other. But they are waiting. Just like they used to wait for you by the door or look out the window for your car, they are now watching over you from the bridge.
Part 3: The Reunion
“You have been spotted… and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again.”
Together Again.
This is the climax of the poem, the moment every grieving heart longs for. It describes a physical reunion—the wet kisses, the happy tail wags. Whether it was a Labrador, a French Bulldog, or a Tabby Cat, that specific joy you felt with them will return. It reminds us that “Goodbye” is not the end. It is simply, “I’ll see you later.”
Frequently Asked Questions About the Rainbow Bridge
Who wrote the Rainbow Bridge poem?
For many years, the author was unknown. However, it has been revealed that Edna Clyne-Rekhy, a Scottish woman, wrote the original poem in 1959 to honor her deceased dog, Major. She was just 19 years old at the time. Although many versions exist today, the core message of hope remains a gift to every heart that has loved and lost.
Do cats and other pets go to the Rainbow Bridge?
Absolutely. While the poem often mentions dogs running, the Rainbow Bridge is for all beloved companions. Whether you are grieving a Cat, a rabbit, a horse, or a bird, they are all waiting for you in that sun-drenched meadow, restored to full health.
What happens to pets at the Rainbow Bridge?
According to the promise, every pet—from the stubborn yet sweet Bulldog to the gentle Teddy Poodle, and from the loyal Golden Retriever to the serene Tabby Cat—is restored to perfect health. Old age vanishes, injuries heal, and they play together in endless meadows until the moment they spot you in the distance.
What is a good quote to write in a sympathy card?
You can simply quote the last line of the poem: “Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together.” Or use a simple sentiment like: “They left paw prints on your heart that will never fade.”
Can I get a printable version of this poem?
Yes. We believe healing should be accessible to everyone. You can download a Free Printable PDF (in English, Spanish, and French) in the section above. Frame it in your home to keep their memory alive.
Is the Rainbow Bridge a real place?
Whether it’s a physical meadow or a spiritual comfort, it is real to those who love. It represents the end of the “Long Goodbye” and the eternal hope that our bonds are not broken by death, but merely held in a peaceful waiting room.
How can I use the Rainbow Bridge poem for a memorial service?
Many find comfort in reading this poem during a pet memorial service or a celebration of life. You can include it in a funeral program, read it aloud while lighting a memorial candle, or display our free printable version next to their favorite photo or urn.
Is this poem a good pet sympathy gift for a grieving friend?
Absolutely. Sharing the original Rainbow Bridge poem is one of the most thoughtful pet sympathy gifts you can offer. You can print our hand-illustrated PDF, frame it, and give it to a friend who has recently lost their Golden Retriever, Labrador, or any beloved companion to show they are not alone in their Journeys.
Can I post the Rainbow Bridge poem on social media?
Yes, it is a beautiful way to honor their legacy on platforms like Instagram or Facebook. When posting, many pet parents use pet loss quotes from the poem as a caption. We recommend using our Shareable Posters which are specially designed for social media to ensure your tribute looks as beautiful as the memory itself.
What is the best way to keep the poem as a lasting keepsake?
Beyond a simple printout, we suggest creating a Digital Sanctuary. By embedding the poem into your pet’s Memorial Page, you can pair these timeless words with your own photos and videos, ensuring their unique story remains a part of your daily life forever.
You Are Not Alone.
The Rainbow Bridge is a promise that love is eternal. Until you meet again, we are here to help you keep their memory alive.
Do you believe they are waiting for you? Tell us their name in the comments below, and we will light a candle in our hearts for them today. 🕯️