All pets go to Heaven.

For those of us who make pets a part of the family, we know how painful it can be when they die. There are many emotions that we feel: guilt, depression, relief (if they were suffering), anger, etc. Sometimes it is helpful to know that others have similar experiences and sharing your feelings can be quite therapeutic. The Austin Humane Society offers a pet loss support group for those who have lost a pet or have a pet with a terminal illness.

The group is offered the last Monday of every month from 7:00 - 8:30pm at the Austin Humane Society. 

The group was started by Debra Rimmer, a Licensed Social Worker, over 15 years ago. Debra says the reason she started the group was because she "felt so alone when she lost her beloved cat of over 14 years" and it didn't seem like any one really understood how badly she was grieving. The group is currently being facilitated by Elizabeth Warren, a Registered Veterinary Technician, College Instructor and long time AHS Volunteer.

The group is free to the public and you may participate as much or as little as you would like. For more information, please contact Katy Drahos, Volunteer Coordinator at KDrahos@AustinHumaneSociety.org or 512-685-0137.

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Here's a poem that you may find helpful. I haven't lost a pet in several years, but it makes me cry everytime I read it nonetheless.

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...