Bailey is 10 years old and in good health apart from his epilepsy, which is controlled by tablets. He hasn't had a fit for quite some time, apparently. He also takes non prescription supplements to avoid the aches and pains that accompany a dog in their Autumn years. He was in foster with Andy and Val in the Midlands, enjoying their particular brand of love and devotion.
FIRST REPORT FROM ANDY 15.5.09
Andy said,"We've had Bailey a week now, so time for an update.
I collected Bailey last Saturday under very sad circumstances, as his Mom and Dad had passed away within 4 days of one another. As you can imagine he was one very sad and bewildered old boy. He was obviously very much loved and well cared for and other members of the family, who are sadly unable to take care of him themselves, are at pains to do their best for him, and have kept in contact to make sure that he is doing ok.
As you'll see from his pictures, he is one very big and cuddly Goldie. As the week has gone on he's become noticeably happier and more relaxed. He's a very easy boy to look after, very good on the lead, great in the car, and as you'd expect perfectly house trained. He's fine to be left and sleeps happily in the kitchen at night.
Bailey's a big cuddle monster and, although advancing in years, still has the infamous Goldie mischievous streak and is quick to pinch anything he thinks might be food, including tea towels and slippers but he is not destructive. He seems to pretty much ignore others dogs but loves meeting people and is great with children. I can't vouch for how he is with cats but find it hard to believe this big laid back old boy would be too bothered.”
SECOND REPORT 13.6.09
Andy said,“We've had Bailey now for nearly a month, and as you'll see from the pictures it's fair to say he's pretty much relaxed now and we've become very fond of him.
He's a lovely old boy, very well behaved, a pleasure to have around, and like a lot of old Goldies a great character. He loves meeting people, especially children, and makes friends wherever he goes.
He especially likes going to the pub, where he's fussed by everyone, and it's becoming increasingly difficult to get him to come home. When his auntie phoned this week to see how he was, she explained that his dad used to take him to the pub too.
He hasn't had a fit while he's been with us, and I think I'm right in saying he hasn't had one this year, so his medication is obviously working well.
Bailey will make someone a wonderful companion, he just needs some love, attention, and couple of short walks, especially if one of them is in the general direction of the local hostelry!”
UPDATE JULY 09
Bailey has now gone to his forever home in Gloucestershire.
REPORT FROM HIS FOREVER HOME
Lynda says "Bailey is still doing well and his ear problem is now OK. I am hoping he will lose some weight. the vet reckons 10kg would be good!! Unfortunately, he does love devouring "food" on his walks...................rabbit pellets and cow pats mainly!
He is loving his walks and, despite his size, now runs in the fields. We walk down to the village twice a week so Julie still sees him and she very kindly looked after him for a couple of days whilst we were away. Julie said Ricky was very pleased to see his old friend again and welcomed him back like he had never been away."
Bailey found great happiness and we all thought that he would have at least a couple of years of blissful retirement in Gloucestershire but, sadly, it wasn't meant to be.
Bailey had enjoyed one of his wonderful country walks and, as usual, settled down in the garden for a snooze. Lynda found him, in his favourite position, with his chin resting on his paws. It was a wonderful peaceful way for him to go but absolutely devastating for his family who adored him.
A massive thankyou to Lynda and Nigel for looking after and loving Bailey to bits for us. You mended his broken heart and made life fun again for him. Rainbow Bridge will be all the richer following the arrival of this big, cuddly fellow with his equally huge personality.
