Sad Evening...

Our oldest dog, Kenai, passed away peacefully tonight. We let him in from outside before we left to go get pizza and a movie to bring home. About an hour later we found him, so sometime, during that hour he moved on, across the rainbow bridge. There was no sign that he was in distress or upset before he passed, and that brings me great peace. There was also no sign today that he was doing or feeling any worse. The only unusual thing he did today was enjoy a little more time outside than normal, I'm glad he took the chance, it was within the next hour that he passed away. He was ours for 12.5 years, the last of our first babies (the animals we had before we had kids). He will be missed but not forgotten. I'll most likely post pictures of him in a day or two, but for now, here's the story of The Rainbow Bridge if yo haven't read it... He joins a ball python, two ferrets, and our Kodi, who he can now frolick and play with without pain. I don't know if getting a puppy at Christmas prolonged Kenai's life any, but it definitely made his last 6 months more enjoyable. He played with Sirius as much as an old arthritic dog could. He mentored him and helped teach him the ropes. Now Sirius will take over, as he steps into his role of transition puppy, and grows into his role as the family dog. And now, The Rainbow Bridge.... 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...