I have been very careful to keep my feelings inside regarding Barney, and I will be honest that in some ways I have tried to push the grief away instead of facing it.
When we lost Harvey earlier this year, it really hit hard against me, just as it did with our previous dogs Penny, and Laddie. I had said my goodbyes days before when I realised he was getting so unwell, and then as each day took form and he was still with us, I made sure that I gave him as much love as I could before the inevitable happened.
I got a call from my mum in tears at 1:12pm whilst I was out driving in my car, saying to come and say goodbye. In my heart, I knew I needed to say it again, but I also wanted to just run away. I didnt want to say it again. Of course I came back and said goodbye, but then I got back in my car and drove for a good hour to calm myself down. But when I re-entered the house later on the night, it was so quiet, and ..... well you all know how it feels.
Penny, Laddie, Harvey and now Barney have touched everyone in our family. Becoming our closest friends and becoming true members of the family. They are all sorely missed and the house seems so lonely and empty without them.
So I will say this:
Barney my friend. Be free, run with your brother and never look back. We will miss your company, affection and your antics. Goodbye my friend. :'(
Keith