<P> The story tells of a lush green meadow just "this side of Heaven" (i.e. before one enters into it). Rainbow Bridge is the name of both the meadow and the adjoining pan-prismatic conveyance connecting it to Heaven . </P> <P> According to the story, when a pet dies, it goes to the meadow, restored to perfect health and free of any injuries . The pet runs and plays all day with the others; there is always fresh food and water, and the sun is always shining . However, it is said that while the pet is at peace and happy, they also miss their owner whom they left behind on Earth . </P> <P> When their owner dies, they too arrive at the meadow, and that is when the pet stops playing, turns, sniffs at the air and looks into the distance where they see their beloved owner . Excited, they run as fast as they can until they are one jump away from their owner's arms . The pet licks its owners in joy while the human looks into the soft eyes of their pet--who might have been absent on Earth, but never absent in their heart . Then side by side, they cross the Rainbow Bridge together into Heaven, never again to be separated . </P> <P> Having been circulated widely around the world, the prose poem's original authorship is uncertain . About.com suggests three presently known contenders to the development of the prose poem: </P>

Where do dogs go when they die rainbow bridge