When a 4-legger comes into our lives, we often don’t realize how much they will change us. They swiftly become our shadows around the house, our buddies at the park, our best friends, our soft shoulders to cry on and our biggest fans. For nothing more than food, a warm bed and a belly rub or a scratch between the ears, our furry family members return happiness to us a hundredfold.

And when we lose them, whether suddenly or after a long struggle, we are devastated.

Suddenly, it’s quieter around the house than it should be. That space next to our favorite chair is empty. And our hearts are full of sorrow.

I’ve lived a long life, blessed with many special babies of my own. I’ve mourned them as they’ve crossed over the Rainbow Bridge, but they continue to live in my memory. And their memories still make me smile.

I want nothing more than for all of you, my dear fans and friends, to embrace the memory of your 4-leggers who have left this earth for something more beautiful. So I asked my team to build a Rainbow Bridge Memorial on the DDAF website, where you can post a photo and a special memory of your beloved companion. I know so many of you have furry friends who have meant the world to you. What better way to honor them than to create a lasting memorial that all your DDAF friends can read and share?

I believe, slowly but surely, we are creating a community online for DDAF followers, whose hearts are always with the animals. Won’t you please consider a donation in memory of your 4-legger? You’ll be honoring all your friend meant to you, and we promise to uphold that memory by doing even more good work to rescue, protect, heal and love all the animals we can reach.

With my deepest gratitude,

Latest from the Doris Day Horse Rescue and Adoption Center!

http://www.onegreenplanet.org/news/animals-show-their-artistic-side-video/

Here's a great list of some amazing people!

http://www.onegreenplanet.org/animalsandnature/amazing-women-behind-animal-shelters-rescues-and-sanctuaries/