I'm so sorry to hear that about Barney. My heart is breaking for you and your family

Thanks for all the kind thoughts and words. It's been a lot to absorb, and I think I've reached the end of the internet trying to dig up as much info as possible.

The way we're looking at it is that today, we have a puppy who is happy and perky, who's still wolfing down his food and happily playing with his doggy friends and eager to go on walks. Someday soon, we won't, so we're trying to maximize the good days. I've been taking Barney somewhere new every day, even if it's just a new part of the neighbourhood he's never been to.

The Prednisone is making him a little more thirsty than normal, but other than that, he's the same pup he was before he was diagnosed. I'll mourn him after he's gone, but I'm trying really hard not to mourn him while he's still with us.

In a way, we're very lucky compared to other dogs who get histio, because it seems there are a lot of owners whose dogs are only diagnosed after they've started being lethargic or in pain, and often they go through several misdiagnoses, which cuts back on their quality time with their dogs.

We're lucky to have had Barney, even for such a short time. He is our first dog, and he truly is perfect! Housebreaking and training were a breeze, and he's got such a sociable and calm temperament, not to mention how pretty his colouring was - people are always stopping to comment on how well-mannered and handsome he is And we're lucky to have a vet who noticed the really minor symptoms and pushed to get a diagnosis so quickly. He's called three times since Wednesday to check in on us and talk about how Barney was doing.

No matter how long we have good pets, it's never long enough. It's devastating that Barney won't be with us as long as we expected, but he really is the perfect dog for us, and we're grateful we picked him. We wouldn't trade 7 or 8 months with him for 10 years with another dog!

Has anyone heard how Barney is?

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Rowan

Durham UK

Barney is a lucky little dog to have a special family like you! You have such an incredible optimism. We should all take a lesson from you and from Barney to make the most out of whatever time we have to be happy. I am sure that this is not easy and your hearts are breaking, but you can know that Barney has a wonderful life right now with you. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you!

Berner Hugs

XOXOXOXO

My heart aches for you and your family. Some of us have been in your position, and its heatbreaking to say the least. Peace be with your family & Barney. <3

We said goodbye to Barney about three weeks ago, on a Monday afternoon. We started noticing more and more signs that he was declining and starting to suffer. We planned lots of visits and play dates for his last weekend with us, took him to the dog park, gave him as many treats as he'd eat (when he would eat), and hugged him a lot.

Our hearts are broken, and we miss him badly. He was such a good, brave boy and didn't deserve to have such a short life...he never even saw snow. It's very hard to make sense of having to put a 7 month old puppy to sleep.

Again, thank you all for the kindness and support. I am so glad that I found this forum, and everyone on here was so helpful and had such good advice for a first-time dog owner.

One more thing - has Emmy been online posting lately? Her Diesel is Barney's brother, and I'd been PMing with her about all of this. She was going to have some tests done but I haven't heard back from her recently.

Rainbow Bridge

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...

Im so sorry to hear about Barney. I wish there was something we could do to take away the pain of losing Barney. Hugs to you and your family. Susan

lots of love and Hugs to you all x

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Rowan

Durham UK

So sorry to hear about your loss. Our boy is almost 7 months old and I can't even imagine losing him so early. You are all in my thoughts.