Losing a Dog Hurts—Here’s the True Story Behind a Famous Poem That Eases the Pain

In this heartfelt episode of the USA Dog Behavior podcast, Scott Sheaffer explores the deep emotional impact of losing a beloved dog. Scott shares his personal reflections on the grief that follows such a loss and introduces listeners to the famous poem The Rainbow Bridge, which has brought comfort to countless grieving pet owners for over six decades. Listeners will hear the touching origin story of the poem, written in 1959 by Edna Clyne-Rekhy after the death of her dog Major—an authorship that remained unconfirmed until recently.

Scott reads the original version of the poem aloud, inviting listeners into its message of reunion, healing, and the enduring bond between humans and their dogs. With its vivid imagery and emotional depth, the poem offers solace to anyone mourning a canine companion. Whether your loss is recent or years past, this episode is a tender reminder that love for our dogs doesn't end at goodbye. 

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Disclaimer
If your dog is aggressive toward humans, consult an experienced, certified canine behavior consultant immediately and ensure your dog cannot harm anyone. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional guidance. Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not liable for outcomes resulting from the advice provided.

Transcript

Losing a Dog Hurts—Here’s the True Story Behind a Famous Poem That Eases the Pain

Welcome to the USA Dog Behavior podcast! I'm Scott Sheaffer, a certified dog behavior consultant and behaviorist specializing in all types of canine behavior issues. Today’s episode: Losing a Dog Hurts—Here’s the True Story Behind a Famous Poem That Eases the Pain.

Dealing with the death of a dog is one of the hardest experiences we face in life. At least that’s how it’s been for me. If you don’t love dogs, you might not understand. The grief is deep, but a poem titled The Rainbow Bridge has offered comfort for over 65 years to grieving dog owners worldwide.  

For years, its author remained a mystery, often mistakenly credited to others. But in 2019, researchers confirmed that Edna Clyne-Rekhy, a Scottish woman, wrote the original version in 1959 after the death of her beloved dog, Major. 

She never intended for it to become famous—she simply wrote from the heart, sharing it only with friends. Over time, however, her words spread, bringing comfort to millions. Little did she know when she penned this now famous poem that it would help comfort countless people worldwide.

I’m going to read the original poem. When you hear it, you’ll understand why it’s so well-known even though it was written over 65 years ago. I must tell you that I’ve owned and lost too many dogs in my life. Every single time I read this poem, I get emotional. It strikes me to the core.

And now, the Original version of Rainbow Bridge written in 1959 by Edna Clyne-Rekhy.

“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. Their bright eyes are intent; their eager bodies quiver. Suddenly they begin to run from the group, flying over the green grass, their legs carrying them 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…" 

Edna’s words paint a picture of peace, healing, and ultimate reunion with our deceased dogs—a hope that eases the pain of loss. Though her authorship was lost for decades and there are many versions of this poem, her original version carries a raw, deeply personal tenderness that later adaptations sometimes lack.  

Whether you’ve recently lost a dog or carry the memory of dogs lost many years ago in your heart, The Rainbow Bridge reminds us that love may not end with goodbye. 

This poem certainly reminds us of the sadness and grief associated with losing a dog, but it also provides us hope. It does for me. 

Thanks for tuning in. If you enjoy quick insights into dog behavior, don’t forget to subscribe for more bite-sized episodes and leave a review if you find these episodes helpful. You can find us at USADogBehavior.com or follow us on Facebook by searching for USA Dog Behavior. See you next time, now go love your dog.