All the animals that had been ill and old are restored to health and to vigour.
Those who were hurt or maimed are made whodasfle 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, someone who was left behind. 
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. 
Her bright eyes are intent; her eager body begins to quiver. 
Suddenly, she breaks from the group, flying over the green grass, 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… 

In Loving Memory of Shasta
 
picture by Karen Baldassarre