'There is a bridge connecting Heaven and Earth. It is called the Rainbow Bridge because of its many colors. Just this side of the Rainbow Bridge there is a land of meadows, hills and valleys with lush green grass.

When a beloved pet dies, the pet goes to this place. There is always food and water and warm spring weather. All the animals who have 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. Her bright eyes are intent; her eager body begins to quiver. Suddenly she begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, her legs carrying her faster and faster. You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion. 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 the Rainbow Bridge together, never again to be separated.'

Bremer's Mighty Tico CGC was the first Dalmatian I owned as an adult.  I know that I should have contacted a breeder instead of obtaining him they way I did, but I have no regrets. 

I went into the pet store to buy cat food and suddenly I was greeted by a black and white bundle of energy.  Tico had just arrived at the pet store!  Minutes later he was leaving it to enbark on his new life with me. 

Tico was a loyal dog.  We hiked everywhere together.  He raised my 2 children with me.  He could always be trusted with kids and other dogs...but not food.  There is many a story to tell about food stealing and garbage can emptying, but we all loved him just the same. 

Tico's health problems took there toll.  He left us at the age of 9.  I look forward to seeing you again, old friend. 

PS Buddy boy, I visit our spot often and leave a stick for you :)

Duke of Harrison was my first Dalmatian.  I was 4 years old and had been pleading with my parents for a puppy.  One morning when my parents came to pick me up from my Grandma's house, up the driveway ran this tiny black and white dog.  I was so afraid he'd run into the street that I picked him up and the rest was history. 

Duke and I shared many adventures.  I could walk anywhere with him and he'd stay by my side.  We'd go to the park to fly a kite or throw a ball and he'd never run off.  I'd plop him up in my room and tell him all my childhood worries and he'd just look at me and listen. 

Duke could climb trees.  We had a big willow tree in our back yard and he and I would sit in the branched for hours.  We built snow men.  Duke would let me pull him in the wagon. 

Duke left us early in life at the age of 5, he just died during the night on April Fools Day and we never knew why.  My family was so distraught that we never had a dog again.  I love you Dukey.