Those of us who have pets understand how integral they are to our daily lives -- our happiness, connectedness, or sense of purpose and family. Our pets are ever faithful dwellers of our households and sometimes the only being in the home that will listen to us patiently as we ramble on and on about the events of the day -- while receiving a little belly rub.

When a pet passes it's a traumatic, life-changing event that can affect some of us more strongly than the passing of a friend or love one. Luckily, there are a host of resources, support groups and counselors available within Central Indiana available to help you through mourning your much-loved pet. You can find a list of counselors, crematories, cemeteries and support groups here. Your veterinarian's office can often lead you to resources as well.

This poem also is often referenced as a source of comfort. Hopefully it brings you or a friend comfort in the unfortunate, but inevitable, event that a pet passes on.

The Rainbow Bridge

There is a bridge connecting Heaven and Earth. It is called the Rainbow Bridge because of its many colors. Just this side of the Rainbow Bridge there is a land of meadows, hills and valleys with lush green grass.

When a beloved pet dies, the pet goes to this place. There is always food and water and warm spring weather. The old and frail animals are young again. Those who are maimed are made whole again. They play with each other.

There is only one thing missing. They are not with their special person who loved them on earth. So, each day they run and play until the day comes when one suddenly stops playing and looks up! The nose twitches! The ears are up! The eyes are staring! And this one suddenly runs from the group!

You have been seen, and when you and your special friend meet, you take him in your arms and embrace. Your face is kissed again and again and again, and you look once more into the eyes of your trusting pet.

Then you cross the Rainbow Bridge together, never again to be separated.

-anonymous