RIO

December 3, 1998 - May 13, 2007

This page is dedicated to Rio, my wonderful, loyal friend and companion of  over eight years.  From the time Rio first saw me, I was his - he pushed the rest of the pups in the litter aside and jumped up to greet me.  I thought I had gone to pick out a pup, but instead he picked me - anyway, it was obvious that we belonged together and I brought the fluffy little ball of fur home.  

When Rio first came to live with me, I still had my sweet Yellow Labrador, Bear.  Shortly after Rio came home, two kittens were added to the fold.  Although one disappeared, the remaining kitten (cleverly named "Kitty") and Rio became the best of friends.  As I write this, Kitty is searching the house looking for his buddy Rio. 

When Bear left us, Rio and I became our own little "pack" - sometimes I was in charge, sometimes he was - but we were each protective of the other.  When I was terribly ill in 2001, Rio stayed by my side constantly and his warm presence was a comfort.  When Rio became ill just two short weeks ago, I comforted him as best I could, but neither that nor the care of our local veterinarian - or even the wonderful staff of the Washington State University's Veterinary School at Pullman, WA were able to work a miracle and heal Rio.  

On Sunday, May 13, 2007, Rio left this life, leaving a tremendous void in my heart and life. 

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....

phone: 406 375-0719

Carole