Lee commissioners back ‘rainbow bridge’ pet memorial at Pirates Cove

LEESBURG — A quiet footbridge at Pirates Cove Nature Park could soon become a place of remembrance and healing for pet owners, following a proposal approved this week by the Lee County Board of Commissioners to transform the structure into a community “rainbow bridge.”

The concept — inspired by the idea of a symbolic crossing where beloved pets are remembered after death — was brought forward by Leesburg resident Sarah Hunter, owner of Pampered Kritters & House Sitters, after a conversation with a close friend navigating the loss of her long-time companion.

When Phyllis Barnes lost her dog, Izzy, she began searching for a way to process her grief — one she believed could be shared with others facing similar loss. Pirates Cove has long been a place where residents walk their pets and enjoy the outdoors, and it is a regular stop for Hunter while caring for animals in her business.

“One day Phylis said to me, ‘I wish we could turn that bridge out there into a rainbow bridge. That would help me grieve,’” Hunter said.

What began as a personal expression of loss quickly grew into a broader community effort. Hunter said she researched similar memorials in other cities and reached out to local veterinary offices to gauge interest and support.

So far, three veterinary offices have pledged support for the project, and Hunter said she hopes more members of the community will follow.

“The community has really given me so much,” she said. “They’ve been so supportive of me and my family. I just thought maybe this is one way I can give something back.”

Hunter, 57, is raising her four grandchildren and said that support has been critical. Starting her pet-sitting and dog-walking business has allowed her to balance work with care-giving responsibilities.

“It’s impossible to work a job with regular hours and do this by myself, so community support of my business has made all the difference,” she said.

Under the proposal, the bridge would be painted in rainbow colors, and pet owners would be invited to attach collars, tags or engraved nameplates in memory of their animals. Hunter said the memorial would be inclusive of all types of pets.

“I care for snakes, reptiles, you name it, as well as dogs and cats — just all kinds of pets,” she said. “People love their animals. They’re part of the family. If your pet didn’t have a collar or a tag, people are welcome to have something engraved with their name to place on the bridge.”

County commissioners expressed support for the concept and approved Hunter to move forward with submitting formal design plans for final review.

Located in a popular walking area, the bridge was seen as a natural fit — a space already frequented by pet owners and families and known for its quiet setting.

Hunter said she hopes the project can be completed to a high standard and eventually become a destination in its own right, drawing visitors to Leesburg while providing a meaningful place for remembrance.

The idea also reflects broader trends in pet ownership. More than 66% of U.S. households own a pet, and about 97% of owners consider their animals part of the family, according to national data.

Hunter said she hopes the project will provide both a place for remembrance and a sense of connection for those experiencing loss.

“This is about helping people heal,” she said.

Organizers are seeking community involvement, including help with signage, paint donations and volunteers to assist with the project. Those interested can contact Hunter at [email protected].

If approved in its final design phase, the rainbow bridge could become a lasting tribute — one built not just in memory of pets, but in recognition of the role they play in the lives of the people who love them.