Rainbow Bridge Friends
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
Grandpa Kitty came to us at the end of his life. He was taken away from people who were neglecting him, and brought to Sunrise after a wonderful person tried to care for this little old man. We don't know his his background; but we can tell you Grandpa improved very quickly with the quality love, care, food, and vet visits after he arrived. Carol had a special pillow for him and he stayed close by drinking in the love. After he gained some weight, and it didn't hurt to be hugged anymore, he found comfort in Carols lap and her ongoing conversations with him. Grandpa Kitty died in his sleep on his pillow, next to Carol's bed one night. He wasn't here long, but I guess this is also what "sanctuary" is about. God Bless, Grandpa Kitty!
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Grandpa Kitty 10-22-09
Skittles was with us for 8 years, which is a long life for a mini-horse; our vet was there when she was born. The owners saw she had a deformed leg and wanted to put her down. The vet went outside and called Mindy, who was thrilled to welcome Skittles to Sunrise Sanctuary. Even though Skittles had a leg disability, she never let it stop her from sneaking food she was not supposed to eat, rolling around in the grass, and enjoying her life. She had a feisty spirit and a zest for life. People do not have Skittles ability to accept what they have like she did, and still be happy. In her younger days she ran and played even with those little legs. Sam was her best buddy and you could find them napping and laying together in the straw. On her last night (and this is unbelievable), Dan stood right by her and just watched over her. Since Dan's arrival, he watched over this sweet little horse... knowing. She was a blessing to know, and she is finally out of pain and running wild somewhere now. God Bless, Skittles!
Skittles 11-24-09