Local Scout Honors Family Dog by Building Rainbow Bridge for Animal Center

Gives others “a place to reflect and remember the pets who have been so special in their lives”

Dozens of folks with a shared love, the love of pets, gathered at Williamson County Animal Center (WCAC) on Monday, December 9 for the dedication of a memorial built by a local scout to honor the bond between people and pets who have passed. Benji Barry of Troop 16 in Franklin said that his Eagle Scout project is a place for community members to celebrate the love and memories of pets.

Benji’s project, dubbed “Reagan’s Rainbow Bridge” is dedicated to his family’s chocolate lab, Reagan who passed at the age of 15 years in 2022. “She was my best friend,” said Benji. “And, as I thought about her, I realized that this bridge would serve as a way to memorialize not just her, but all pets that people have lost.” For those who are not familiar, The Rainbow Bridge is a poem that, in Benji’s words, “describes a beautiful place just beyond the horizon where pets go after they pass. A place where they are restored to health and happiness, free to run and play, waiting to be reunited.”

Williamson County Mayor, Rogers Anderson expressed his appreciation for the project and noted the positive influence that animals have in the lives of many humans. Anderson also made a point to recognize Benji’s parents, Lance and Mindy Barry for their behind-the-scenes contributions. Among others in attendance, were a number of Benji’s family members in addition to his parents, several of his scout leaders, WCAC Director Ondrea Johnson and shelter staff members and volunteers.

Benji was given the honor of placing the first collar on the bridge, Reagan’s collar, and then others in attendance added to it following the ceremony. All are invited to memorialize their beloved pets who have passed by hanging a collar or other object on the bridge at any time. The bridge is located at the entrance of the wooded walking trail adjacent to the public dog park at WCAC.

WCAC (www.adoptwcac.org) is open to the public Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.; Saturday 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.; and closed Sunday. Located at 1006 Grigsby Hayes Court in Franklin, hours may vary due to holidays. Phone: (615) 790-5590.