06/11/2024
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We wanted to take a moment to share something exciting happening in our community. At a special location in Fairfield, heaven touches earth. It is at that hallowed intersection where the fabled Rainbow Bridge will be constructed where grieving pet owners can honor their beloved, departed companions. According to legend, departed pets go to the Rainbow Bridge to enjoy perfect health in cool shade and lush fields where they await their trusted human masters so they can cross over the Bridge to enter eternity together, never to be separated again.
The city of Fairfield, the Parks Department and city engineers have given the green light for a citizen's’ group to begin fundraising for construction of the Rainbow Bridge at a site overlooking Fairfield’s Furfield Dog Park on East Miami River Road.
The Bridge will enable bereaved pet owners to quietly reflect on their loss and leave memorabilia such as collars or favorite toys as they wait to be reunited.
“The project will provide an opportunity for some comfort and closure in the loss of a beloved pet,” said local attorney Tina Barrett, who is spearheading the project. “Anyone who has suffered a loss, regardless of age, knows all too well the lingering heartbreak after a pet dies, whether it’s a faithful dog, cat or a child’s beloved hamster.”
A site plan is being developed showing a conceptual layout of the Bridge and Serenity Gardens, including a water feature of a gentle waterfall cascading under the bridge structure. A fundraising campaign for the project has been established with the Fairfield Community Foundation, which will oversee administration of donations to the Rainbow Bridge project. The Community Foundation is a 501c3 entity, making donations to the project tax deductible. To contribute to the project, visit the Fairfield Community Foundation, or open this link at https://hcfoh.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=6346&sorg_id=1033
The project was inspired by a similar concept in North Carolina, which attracts pet lovers from the region wanting to honor their departed pets.
“Not everyone can make a sojourn to North Carolina,” said Fairfield Mayor Mitch Rhodus. “Fairfield’s Rainbow Bridge will provide a more convenient alternative and likely will attract bereaved pet lovers from throughout the region. Pet lovers can honor their special companion by leaving mementos or even sprinkling their pet’s ashes in the Serenity Gardens.”
“We’ve all suffered a heartbreaking loss of a pet,” said Council Member Dale Paullus, who championed the Rainbow Bridge concept immediately upon hearing of the idea. “The loss is overwhelming to many adults, let alone children having to cope with the loss. A visit to the Rainbow Bridge can help provide closure.”