I just read one of the most touching children's books, written by award winning author Dorothy Wills-Raftery, in partnership with her young Grandson, Cody Thomas. Wolfie, What Is The Rainbow Bridge? is a touching and heartfelt story that can help children understand what happens when a beloved pet dies. The book addresses the difficult question that is often on the mind's of kids who have lost a beloved pet; where do our pets go when they leave us? If your child has lost a special pet, or you dread the day it happens, this book can help you prepare for what to say when a beloved pet dies.
WHERE DO PETS GO WHEN THEY DIE?
Dorothy's book tells a beautiful and heartfelt story about love, loss, and the special bond between a boy, her Grandson Cody, and his beloved dog, Siberian Husky, Wolfie. Told from a child's point of view in language kids will understand, it gently answers one of the hardest questions children ask; Where do our pets go when they leave us?
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| The book is beautifully illustrated from real photos of Cody and Wolfie, like this one |
Through Wolfie's tender words, kids learn about the Rainbow Bridge, a place where pets run free, play, and wait for us beyond the rainbow. The story is based on Dorothy's Grandson Cody and the incredible bond he had with their dog Wolfie.
This authentic portrayal makes it feel real and personal. The story handles the topic of pet loss with warmth, hope and love. I was relieved the book doesn't discuss an actual death of a particular pet, but rather it focuses on the eventual loss of pets. No trauma in this book, thankfully, just a celebration of the unique bond between a boy and his dog, and a conversation about the touchy subject of pets having to eventually leave us.
THE RAINBOW BRIDGE POEM
I have always loved the story and the poem about the Rainbow Bridge. It's a beautiful thought for all of us who love and cherish our pets. The author is unknown. Enjoy the poem;
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| The Rainbow Bridge Poem - Author Unknown |
The illustrations in Dorothy's book, created from real illustrated photos of Cody and Wolfie, bring to life Wolfie's playful spirit and the strong bond he shared with his little human.
HOW TO TALK TO KIDS ABOUT PET LOSS
The book is a comforting read for any family who has lost a precious pet. It offers hope, healing, and the reminder that love never ends, it simply transforms. Dorothy is such a talented writer, her words always touch my heart.
As I read this book, I couldn't help thinking about my own precious Husky, Icy, who went to the Rainbow Bridge in January, 2025. I like to imagine her running and playing on the Rainbow Bridge, waiting for the day we are reunited. I loved curling up on the coach with a hot cup of tea to read this heartfelt book. I knew I'd need tissues, but for all the right reasons!
I would recommend this book for parents, teachers, or grandparents looking for a gentle way to start a conversation with kids about pet loss. The book was recently Named on the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement (APLB.org) Recommend Reading list!
