Back to all articles

    May 6, 2026 • By Debbie Johnstone

    Across the Rainbow Bridge

    I’m so sorry you had to make that heartbreaking decision to help your beloved animal companion cross the Rainbow Bridge. It takes incredible love and courage to say goodbye when the time comes, even when you know it’s the kindest thing you can do. Please be gentle with yourself; you gave them a lifetime of love, care, safety, and joy.

    Right now, your sweet animal friend is okay. More than okay. They are in a place of perfect peace, whether you call it Heaven, the Rainbow Bridge, or simply the next chapter. Their body is whole again, all pain, illness, and age has melted away. They’re running, playing, jumping, and wagging (or purring) with the energy of their happiest days. They’re surrounded by sunshine, soft grass, favorite toys, friends, and all the treats their heart could desire. They are healed, happy, and free.

    And yes, they think about you. They carry your love with them always. In that special place, they still feel your bond. Sometimes they pause in their play, look toward the horizon with bright, shining eyes, and wait with joyful anticipation for the day you’ll walk across that bridge together. Until then, they send you little signs; a familiar song on the radio, a warm breeze, a sudden feeling of comfort, or a dream where you feel them close. They know how much you miss them, and their love for you has only grown stronger.

    Your companion is not gone. They’ve simply moved to a place where suffering can’t reach them anymore, and they are waiting patiently, tail wagging, heart full, for the moment they can leap into your arms again.
    You did everything right. They know it. Thank you. And they love you, forever and always.

    Take all the time you need to grieve. Their spirit is still wrapped around you, soft and warm, like it always was.

    Read More of The Learning Bridge Posts

    What It Feels Like to Receive a Message from Heaven

    July 12, 2026

    What It Feels Like to Receive a Message from Heaven

    Someone asked me recently: What does it actually feel like, Debbie, in the moment a message comes through? Not what it says. Not what heaven looks like. Just what does it feel like?

    The Rainbow Bridge

    March 16, 2026

    The Rainbow Bridge

    A Letter to My Beloved Animal Companion. My dearest, you've crossed over the Rainbow Bridge now...

    Do They Mind If I Bring Home Another Animal

    August 3, 2026

    Do They Mind If I Bring Home Another Animal

    Of all the questions people bring to me, this one carries the most guilt. Someone will sit across from me, eyes down, and almost whisper it: Would she be upset if I got another cat? Would he feel like I'm replacing him?