by Lorraine Payette, written April 22, 2014

“There is a bridge connecting heaven and earth…”
– Rainbow Bridge

(Inverary, ON) Sheba’s Haven in Inverary, Ontario, knows perhaps better than anyone else the sweet pain and sorrow of losing a loving, lifelong non-human companion. Since its humble beginning in 2000, many dogs have passed through its gates to find love and care as they spend their last weeks, months or sometimes years living in dignity at this one of a kind palliative care facility.

A small palliative care facility for dogs at 1830 Sunbury Road in Inverary, this registered charity looks after about 10 dogs at a time on a three-acre lot. There is plenty of room for them to get out and play, hunt for interesting things in the grass, or just bask in the sun. They receive the best in veterinary care, special diets, and the use of holistic and other natural treatments to guarantee that their remaining time is as comfortable and rewarding as possible.

“This year the Haven is having its first ever Kindness & Healing Event at the Haven, where there will be a Butterfly release to remember all those wonderful and memorable animal companions in our lives that have gone on to Rainbow Bridge,” says Catherine Pokrywa, founder, owner and facilitator of Sheba’s Haven.

The event will take place from 1:00-3:00 pm at the Haven on Saturday, June 14. A Pet Loss Counselor will be on site, and all who have lost an animal companion are invited to come out and be a part of this celebration of life.

“Butterflies can be purchased for $20.00 each,” says Pokrywa. “To participate in the Butterfly Release, we ask that you order your butterfly by April 25th. If you are unable to attend but wish for a butterfly to be released, you can order one and one of our volunteers would be happy to release it for you.”

Butterflies may be purchased using PayPal or Canada Helps at http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/shebashaven.html, or by sending a cheque to Sheba’s Haven Rescue, RR#2, 1830 Sunbury Road, Inverary, Ontario K0H 1X0. Please be sure to mention that the donation is for a butterfly purchase, and whether or not you will be attending the event. If you are unable to attend, be sure to let them know to whom you are dedicating your butterfly, and they can help you honour their memory.
All pets are honoured and their memories welcomed at this ceremony. For more information, please go to the website above or https://www.facebook.com/pages/Shebas-Haven-Rescue/191396114238947 .