Rainbow Bridge PoemJust 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... 🌈 |
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Katie2004-2016
To Katie,
While you will be in our hearts forever, life without you seems strange. But as your many friends remind us, it was not just us who lost you! Love to you from your human family and John, Dexter & Neal, Chris & Gregory, Jane & Kirk, Steve & Charlie, and, of course, Larry, whose days you brightened for years. |
ZekeMarch 2007 - August 2017
We Adopted Zeke in October of 2011. He was 4 years old. We knew his date of birth because the owner who surrendered him to my good friend Joanne gave her whatever records he had. Zeke weighed 117 pounds. Compared to the 173 pounds of healthy dog he became later in life, this was very scary. He was previously fed hot dogs when his owner could afford it, and slept on a concrete slab night after night. Joanne and her wonderful family fostered Zeke for nearly a year. They taught him about love, being part of a family, and put close to 50 pounds on him. We picked up where Joanne left off and showered him with the love a family can give to a dog. One of my favorite attributes of a dog is that they live in the now. Zeke now knew humans were capable of treating him how he deserved to live out his life. When we adopted Zeke, he was immediately considered a family member by both Jamie and I and our dogs Titan and Rathman. Zeke watched all three of our sons come through the door for the first time. He was also so kind to the several foster dogs we’ve had over the years. He always had those eyes that were almost pitiful looking up at me as if to say “Thank you for loving me!” He was always by my side. Jamie and I joked how we should have renamed him Shadow! Wherever I was Zeke wanted to be too. Even when I would clean the house, or do laundry he would follow me room to room. He traveled across country when we moved last August. When we bought our house, I was so happy our Master was on the main floor as Zeke could no longer go up or down stairs. This year Zeke began to decline at a more rapid pace. I won’t go into details, but I just could not be selfish in his suffering. He passed away in our home, his head in my lap, very peacefully. I will forever be grateful to Joanne and her family for saving his life and bringing him into ours. And for our vet who is so compassionate, who came to our home for Zeker’s wellbeing, and for showing us great comfort and peace in this time. Zeke has brought great joy to our hearts and our home for almost 6 years! He was loved. He will be missed. He will be cherished by our whole family.
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ChampJuly 10th, 2008 - July 27th, 2018
Champ and I were buddies for just over 9 years. He had this incredible ability to make me laugh on a daily basis which I will miss greatly. Unfortunately he had his share of health issues throughout the years so I'm glad he no longer has to suffer. Thanks to Dr. Hodges and team for the great care you provided for us.
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Sadie2009 - 2018
Our sweet girl rescued us in 2012 in TN. The first time she came into our house she immediately jumped on the couch, turned around and looked at us with a "Ah! Home!" Since then she was the queen! And we happily spoiled her as such. So much love both ways. We will love and miss you always.
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cocoMarch 15th, 2008 - March 8th, 2019
Coco, we miss and love you everyday. My heart aches for you. You were my best friend. I am thankful for the 11 years we had with you. I am grateful that you taught us how to love unconditionally. I wish I could have done more to save you. We will hold you forever in our hearts until we meet again. Our precious Coco...
See you in our dreams, Nicky and Neo |
Pete2016 - 2019
I have been blessed with many things in my life and then one day this special four legged blessing came my way and wow did my life change. He wanted nothing more than to be by your side and loved his walks in his stroller, beach vacations, ice cream treats and car rides with help of course to put his head hanging out of the window like the other dogs despite his many limitations. The time to now let this wonderful animal rest and be at peace and push aside my selfishness of wanting him to stay has come and gone. I know by all of the overwhelming support that this special little one was indeed special in more ways than I can express and will leave an empty space in our home but was worth the journey!
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Wiley Coyote2003 - 2020
We are so blessed that you picked us as your family! You were an amazing big brother to your human sister. She will love you forever and miss you. You loved and protected us. We will remember all the fun adventures we had! We will miss you beyond words could ever express. No more pain my love! Run free with all of your friends in heaven! Until we meet again my sweet bubby! We love you! Love Mommy, Daddy and Sissy
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Sweet Pea2005 - 2020
Our beloved Sweet Pea, you brought so much into our lives. Our journey together was a fantastic experience and your spicy soup was endearing to all that knew you. You are greatly missed, sweetness.
We are grateful for the extraordinary care that she received at Happy Tails Animal Hospital. |
Porter2010 - 2020
We knew you were different from day one. So full of life cut short way too soon. Our hearts ache for the sound of you running through the house. You were a special dog. The time you were with us gave us many moments of joy. You will be in our hearts forever and life seems strange without you. We will reunite again some day.
Bev and Frank |
Buddy2007 - 2020
Buddy was a special dog as he had a tongue that hung out his mouth on the left side all the time. He looked so cute that no matter what trouble he got in we couldn't stay made at him long. He was a member of our family since a puppy and brought us many joys, he is missed by us all.
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Belle2012 - 2021
When Belle, our pug was adopted she became instant friends with Buddy our other dog. Wherever he was she was right next to him or on top of him. He died in Nov. and while she died of pneumonia I wonder how much of her broken heart caused her death 4 months later. I sweetheart and a love and so definitely missed by us all.
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CassiusJune 4th, 2014 - May 13th, 2021
Cassius was such a happy, smart, “live in the moment” dog. He brought so much joy and laughter to our family. He loved adventures like car rides, walks in the park, sunbathing on his favorite spot on the deck, chicken treats, butt scratches, and most of all just being with his family. He was our protector and best friend. We miss him so much. We will see you again buddy. We will bring your chicken treats.
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Banjo2011 - 2021
He was our rescue dog that always had an old man soul. He loved laying on the sofa or in our yard taking the warmth of the sun in. He loved dancing for his snacks and being cuddled like a baby. He was definitely my sons dog, slept with him every night and even after he moved out Banjo would still go to his room waiting for him to take him to bed. He will definitely be missed in our family. We love you! Banjo
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Gus2015 - 2022
(Adopted 2020) My sweet baby Gus. We are so glad we found you. You helped rescue us when Wiley passed. We are so sorry our time together was so short. We loved you with everything we had and more. We miss you every day. Run pain free. Wiley will be up there to meet you and show you the way.
Love always, Mommy, Daddy and Sissy. |
Sonia2003 -2022
Sonia, “Pooks” , started her life as the runt of a small litter of Chocolate point Siamese. We took her because nobody wanted her and her sister, Sela, needed a companion. She was a talker and a constant companion from that day forward. We took her from Lancaster to our then home in Raleigh, NC, the first Thanksgiving we were married in 2003. She quickly adjusted but began presenting with terrible skin lesions prompting us to look into optimal care to find out the cause of these chronic lesions. Thankfully, we were employees at NC State where there is a fantastic School of Veterinary Medicine and we got on a waiting list to be seen there. What an experience as we learned about immunotherapy from the most wonderful professor , Dr. Murphy, and her students and staff. Pooks continued to live out beyond her 9lives after that. We moved back to Lancaster , and Sela and Pooks adjusted to their new home and eventually their human siblings. Pooks loved to play, she loved her lap time every night with her Dad, and she loved to talk. You could have s whole conversation with her. She was a fighter and survivor, fighting to the end to take one last breathe before she crossed rainbow bridge to find Sela. What a blessing she was to us. Dr. Battah, and team, thank you for caring for our baby girl and giving her every chance to keep going . She took them all. Until we meet again, Pooksie .
Love from your people, Evelyn, Philip, Maisie and Andrew |
Sasha2007 - 2022
Sasha was an extraordinary soul. She gave us 15 years of unconditional love and attention. I love all of my dogs, however, Sasha was the "one" She provided me with the much need love and kisses after my partner passed. My heart is broken and I'm feeling lost without her by my side.
I am grateful for the 15 wonderful years with her and know she is with her other mother. Thank you Happy Tails for everything for my precious fur babies.....and me. |
Mya2006 - 2022
The day I brought you home was the beginning of our journey together. Your little spirit was meant to be in my life teaching me. You taught me such unconditional love. You loved everyone around you. The neighborhood is missing you. You watched over me after medical treatments as my little nurse. Loved me during the difficult times. You're carrying a piece of my heart with you. With much love to my baby dog!
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BenOur bb boi Ben, 4 years was no where near enough time with you. You gave us more love than I imagined I could ever get from a dog and now my expectations are high. You were my shadow and always making sure I was close to you, which I made sure to do in return for your last few moments with us. I’ll miss your constant whining for dinner, or you biting my nose in the morning to wake me up, you pushing your head against me just waiting for pets, and of course your hot stinky breath. All of the little moments, we’ll keep with us forever.
My first foster fail. I am so happy that you chose me and I was too picky to let just anyone adopt you since I was your person and you were our sweet boy. We love you forever and always Bean, Benji, Ben. |
WinstonApril 22nd, 2018 - February 23rd, 2023
In loving memory of Winston:
I’ve had a number of dogs over the years. Dogs growing up as a kid. Goldens when Mark and I were first together. Bentley, the first Bernese right after my Dad passed, Reagan and then Winston. It’s not nice to say, but I have to put this out there—Winston was by far my favorite dog ever. I think it has to do with the fact that he was singularly my dog. No Mark to train him and turn him into a dog who responded to eye and hand commands. Rather, Winston and I had lengthy, meaningful conversations. We understood each other. Did he run off from time to time? Yes. Did he sleep in my bed and sit on the couch with me? Yes. And, I wouldn’t have had it any other way. He simply wanted to be loved. Was he perfectly trained? No. Was Mark watching us from up above? Yes. Wondering the entire time if I had paid any attention to his masterful training techniques. Short answer, I guess I hadn’t. Now the house feels so empty, Winston had a presence, and his absence is keenly missed. Will I get another dog? Too soon to tell. The problem is, he/she won’t be Winston and that’s not fair to whoever comes next. Perhaps in time. But for now I want to remember all of the joy Winston brought to my life. He was my one in a million companion and he will hold a place in my heart forever. |
RudySeptember 30th, 2005 - May 3rd, 2024
"Chihuahua/Lhasa Apso/Pom and a teeny bit rat terrier."
Rudy was that once-in-a-lifetime dog. He was the “official greeter” and truly loved everyone-and everyone loved him. He lived a full life of being at the beach on weekends kayaking, boating, jet-skiing, as well as the mountains and everything in between. If we were there, Rudy was there, too. He was the most loving, loyal boy, and I will miss him eternally. |
HersheyAugust 11th, 2007 - March 24th, 2025
Hershey was the love of my life, and the only being who truly understood me.
In Loving Memory Who would have thought when I felt so abandoned That G-d would introduce me to my best friend and companion A surprising breath of fresh air that I desperately needed An answer to prayer beyond exceeded I never knew I could feel such joy And that my soulmate in life would be this precious boy Through all our years there were mountains to climb But we did it together time after time He was my north my south my east my west My working week and my Sunday rest My world my life my routine my reason Giving me unconditional love through every season Teaching me more than any person could To wake up each morning, look for and appreciate the good Ever with me in joy and in strife I’m eternally grateful he came into my life He was my day my night my heart my song I love him beyond measure Even though he’s moved on With tears and sorrow I’ll miss him always May blessed memories of him comfort me And brighten the rest of my days |
TraversSeptember 4th, 2007 - June 12th, 2025
Travers, your sister Brenna will be waiting to meet you over the bridge. She will take good care of you now.
Mama and daddy miss you so much . You and Brenna meant so much to us and our lives will be forever changed without you. Go run and chase some squirrels until we see you again. We Love you ! |
RascalDecember 2009 - June 2025
Such a loving sweet boy, he would have played ball 24/7 if he were allowed.
He loved spending time with us as well as his bestest buddy Phred. They laid together all the time, Phred had to always be touching Rascal and he clearly is missing Rascal as much as we are. You will be forever in our hearts we miss you so very much ! |
TobyOctober 14th, 2013 - September 13th, 2025
He was daddy's boy, but daddy passed on. He soon became my little cuddle bunny. Every morning he would wake me up by cuddling me at my neck and would persist until I got up. He loved to get his daily massages and always greeted with a waging tail when I came home. He will deeply be missed by myself and Zoey his sister.
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OtterApril 2017 - October 5th, 2025
Came to us from a York Co. trailer park, older, FIV, severe stomatitis, & kidney disease. No ears and his round head made him look like a teddy bear. He adapted well to indoor life & was a sweetheart. I will sorely miss his antics of sleeping on the shoe shelf, table or dryer top, & esp. drinking from the laundry room faucet - his personal fountain. He even sat in the sink licking at the dry faucet as a broad hint. Otter brought so much happiness to us in his short time here. His death has been esp. hard b/c of him being such a poor soul. Miss you Mr. Grumbles!
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KashmirSeptember 24th, 2009 - January 24th, 2026
My Siamese, Kashmir, was a seal point born on September 24th 2009 - a Thanksgiving gift from a grateful patient. From the beginning, he was my handsome, playful, affectionate little boy who brought me endless joy.
For sixteen years, he was my constant companion and shadow, snuggling close and purring, always nearby. He was a talker, expressive and intuitive, and somehow seemed to know my moods almost telepathically. Though feisty with his buddies, he loved them deeply - and they all knew he was the boss. We miss Kashmir already, profoundly, and feel the quiet void left by his absence. His love, however, remains woven into our lives forever. |
Tippy2010 - 2026
Tippy was my mothers beloved cat and after she served my mother with love and friendship she was welcomed on to me. Tippy had a sweet personality very loving and comforting. She knew when I needed her company. Like when my husband passed. She never left me alone. Always did things to make me smile. Tippy was loved by family and friends. She loved taking pictures. Tippy always greeted me at the door when I came home and lead me straight to her treat draw. I thanked Tippy for the time she gave me. I was truly blessed to have had her in my life. Rest well my baby girl.
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Kaylee4/13/2018 - 6/8/2026
Kaylee just turned 7 in April she was a very loved part of our family. She is very missed already. She grew her wings to go over the rainbow bridge in 6/8/2026, but we know now that she is no longer in pain. She always followed us around even just to go to the bathroom. She loved her treats and she never ate dog food. We always made her chicken.
We love you baby girl and we always will. |
Dusty2014 - 2026
Today we celebrate the life of Dusty, a cherished friend and an irreplaceable part of our family. Dusty came into our lives as a tiny puppy, immediately bringing an abundance of comfort and warmth. Whether it was dropping the kiddos off at school, the way he greeted us at the door, or simply keeping us company in quiet moments, your presence made the world feel right. Thank you for showing us what unconditional love truly means. You may be gone from our-sight, but you will forever run free in our heart.
Thank you to all the staff at Happy Tails for taking such great care of Dusty. |
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Monday 8:00am - 7:00pm Tuesday 8:00am - 7:00pm Wednesday 8:00am - 7:00pm Thursday 8:00am - 7:00pm Friday 8:00am - 6:00pm Saturday Closed Sunday Closed |
Happy Tails Animal Hospital
823 Rohrerstown Road Lancaster, Pa 17601 PH: 1- 717- 393-8245 Fax: 717-517-8319 For information of emergency services during hours we are not open please click the following link.
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