Barney 11-408

Profile

Sponsored by:

Dennis and Joanne
"What a wonderful, sweet boy who deserves the best Christmas gift of all: a wonderful new life!
Let's get that tail wagging and the big Golden smile going!"

In Memory of Abby
"Barney, you are such a sweet, handsome boy - love your senior face - you are in such good hands. Merry Christmas!"

Judith Cummings

Love, Grizz

December 11, 2011

Meet Barney, the senior that has stolen my heart. He was dumped up north, was taken in by a good samaritan and eventually made it to RAGOM. Thanks to Bobbi Jo for picking Barney up, driving him an hour and half to meet me. It sure was a lot of 'riding' for this boy, about 3 hours worth. The dog I met was matted on his underside and sides with mats were so long that when he walked his hind feet stepped on the mats. His tail was tucked between his legs and he hated the leash. We went right to the vet where they did blood work, updated his shots and then was shaved and cut and bathed. It was discovered ALL his teeth were very very nasty, he was not altered and he had about a 2" growth hanging from under his chin. Finally it was time to head for his new 'foster home'. Once in the garage with the doors closed I had to work to get him out of the van and outside for a potty break. Hating the leash makes it difficult to get a dog in and out of doors. We finally made it in the house and there was no doubt he had never been indoors and the tile floors were scary. Soon he settled in the hallway by the front door with rugs scattered here and there. I tried to feed him by hand and he did well but once he realized it was good food he would just 'grab' for it so it was time to let him eat out of the bowl. Eventually he wasn't quite so scared and I would sit by him and pet him and talk to him and he relaxed a bit. I put a gate up between the hall and kitchen to give him a feeling of being 'safe'. Wasn't too long and he pushed the gate out of the way and very carefully walked into the dining area and around the table. After that I just let him wander. At bedtime I put the fridge light on and gated him in the dining area. And so Barney's new life began. He is fine with our 3 cats and likes being with another dog. He is a bit timid with my husband, but warming up.

Barney had 18 teeth removed and had already lost 2 (they have a total of 42 teeth). A couple of the teeth were so infected they smelled, one was concave in his mouth, the rest worn down by chewing to get out?.......... poor nutrition for sure.....how he ate I don't know, but it explains his eating by sucking up and swallowing food whole:( He is on soft food for a few days and then I will make mush out of his regular kibble by soaking it in hot water and then blending it. He will be back on regular kibble in no time and able to eat without the horrible pain he was in. We have no idea how long Barney was on his own or what his life was before, but he wasn't taken care of. Good chance he was kept in a small area and not exercised or received any vet care. He has some muscle loss in his hind legs but hopefully with short walks a couple times a day we can start to build him up. I hope whomever 'owned' Barney gets coal and few nasty surprises in their stocking!! My heart just breaks at the thought of this dog being treated so poorly and I want only a GReat life for him from now on and forever. He is Lyme and heartworm negative and blood work was good over all, which is something considering what he has been through. When I went to get him tonight they said he had just laid in his enclosure all day quiet as a mouse (he hasn't barked at all). I went over to him and started talking to him. He raised his head up and looked at me. When I opened the door he stood up and WAGGED HIS TAIL!!! Before then he had not wagged it once, my hubby thought it was broke as it was always tucked between his legs:( I sat and talked with him and he finally got the courage to step out and once out he moved:) He was ready to go. At home and out of the van and potty break he headed right for the house door..........and walked right in. WOW just a couple days of Jax leading the way and me ushering him via steering his butt down the hall, he figured out that he could go out and Come Back In!!!!!

There are so many deserving dogs and RAGOM has saved so many. What most people don't realize is that it can cost upwards of a thousand dollars and more to help a dog get his health back. Being a senior, RAGOM's adoption fee is but a fraction of the cost of vetting. But how do you put a price on this dog's life? I know at this time of the year we have many places for our monies to go, many wonderful charities, family members to remember at Christmas, and sponsoring Barney may not be in the budget. BUT if you would like to help with Barney's vet bills, any amount would be welcome and so appreciated. You can donate on line or send a check and tell RAGOM it's for BARNEY 11-408 and I promise you it will be one of the best gifts you give this season:)

Barney would love and thrive in a home with no small children, with or without another fur butt, and someone who just wants to 'share' life with him. I know when you look at all our seniors on site they may seem to 'all be the same', but each one has a story and deserves to live their lives out in a loving home. Barney is no exception. So stayed tuned for the next chapter in Barney's new book of life.

Merry Christmas from all of us to all of you and yours

Barney meets Jax

Groomed

Home again jiggy jig

At a Glance #11-408

Golden Retriever	Born: December 1999
Male	90 lbs

Status: Deceased

Profile

Sponsored by:

Dennis and Joanne
"What a wonderful, sweet boy who deserves the best Christmas gift of all: a wonderful new life!
Let's get that tail wagging and the big Golden smile going!"

In Memory of Abby
"Barney, you are such a sweet, handsome boy - love your senior face - you are in such good hands. Merry Christmas!"

Judith Cummings

Love, Grizz

December 11, 2011

Merry Christmas from all of us to all of you and yours

Barney meets Jax

Groomed

Home again jiggy jig

Updates

Sunday, May 20, 2012

I got a call from my vet's office while I was in Boston telling me they had a box for me and Barney. Before I went home I stopped at the vet's office and opened the box. It was from The Dog Bed Fairy. A new cover for Barney's bed with a card.

"Joyce very sorry to read of Barney's passing. Old dogs are so special (you already know that). Maybe Jax needs a 'new' bed (cover)? Maybe another old dog will amble down the road into your home? The bed is yours to do as you wish. DBF"

I cried all the way home. Still no clue who this lady is, but on the back of her card it said HAND STAMPED BY LIZ (stampin' up). A clue but not really a clue. So to the very special Dog Bed Fairy, THANK YOU. I had washed Barney's bed cover and then put the bed and cover in the guest room. I just couldn't bear to see it in the bedroom. I wasn't sure what to do about the bed........ until I received the new cover and card. Then I knew I would keep it and let Jax enjoy it. AND there will be another senior that will amble in at some point. It's just such a part of Barney's memory I can't let it go. This senior boy was a very very special boy to me, unlike any other dog I've had. This will be a loving reminder of him forever.

Thank you,

Foster Mom

Saturday, May 5, 2012

Things can change in the blink of eye. Barney was 'off' and had blood on his bed, then I found a piece of 'white stuff with blood' on it. We went to see Dr Nancy and she found a quarter size inflamed sore in Barney's right upper jaw. We decided to not biopsy the piece I found, and put Barney on antibiotics. Barney started to have accidents in the house, his breathing seemed to get more labored, he didn't want to eat at night, but so hungry in the morning he would swallow his kibble and then up chuck it and re eat it. It was time to go back in for his check up. Dr Nancy walked in and said the piece I brought in got sent in for biopsy by accident, she wasn't charging us. It's Squmous cell carcinoma, a very aggressive cancer.
But how can that be? We (RAGOM, BobbiJo and I) saved him. Dr Nancy and the staff got rid of the long mats, bathed him, did his shots, neutered him, pulled 18 teeth, he was feeling good. We managed to get Barney pass so many things, he would eat, but only if we didn't stand by him. He would come outside on his own. He learned all 4 floors, he loved his bed from the Bed Fairy. He LOVED his walks in the field and every now and then would get 'frisky' with Jax. He didn't know how to hold a bone or kong, but if I arranged it right he would go at it. He learned to know what toys were and became typical Golden in that he had to grab something to carry outside for potty breaks. He knew at bed time it was numnum time (treat time) and that once he got on his bed he would get a massage. He can't have cancer. I'm not ready to let him go. I love him. Look how far he's come, he is finally safe and trusting humans, me most of all. I'm not ready, it's too fast.

Barney and Faith's toy

For a week I cried and then started to pay attention. We had put him on extra pain pills, pills for incontinence/dribble, pills for nauseau, he would get better for a while, right? But instead we noticed the walks got cut down to around the yard, moist food got him to eat, but FD noticed he would sometimes just sit and stare, maybe a little dementia? He's not ready. I know he's not. I talked with FD, I talked to friends, to Dr Nancy, and then to my mentor, KS. I would be leaving for 10 days, could I leave Barney with FD, if he would continue to slide quickly would I be ok to have FD be the one to help him cross the bridge? There was no hope for him to get better. The last couple days Barney wouldn't lay on his sides anymore, only straight with head out. It was too painful and too hard to breathe. So I fed him moist food, chicken, lots of treats and watched him. I made the decison.

Friday at 5 FD and I took Barney to McDonalds and got him cheeseburgers, FF and ice cream. Turns out he didn't like FF or ice cream!! But he was happy to help FD finish his big Angus burger. We went to the vet's office and there they had a special room made up for Barney and me, with a white quilt and as much time as we wanted. I can't tell you how grateful I am for Dr Nancy and her staff. I told Barney there would be many RAGOM kidz to greet him and my friends Tamra and Jamie. Both who we lost to cancer. I wasn't ready. Dr Nancy came in and and I knew it was time. How do they know not to fight what is about to happen? How peaceful he was. His heart was strong, but the body was infected by that killer that was taking him from me. I did what anyone who loves her dog does, make the decision and help them cross the Rainbow Bridge with dignity and as pain free as possible. He had suffered so much in his life, I didn't want him to suffer to stay with me because I wasn't ready. I finally knew, Barney was ready. And so with tears from me and Dr Nancy we set him free.

My favorite bed

They say dogs come to us and each has a lesson to teach us. I hope that I remember always that Barney taught me it's never too late to give a dog love, kindness and happiness in their later years on this earth. No matter where they came from or why they came to RAGOM, they deserve to be loved and have a family. I hope I remember that as with humans it is with dogs, give love, have patience and hope someone will do in kind to you. I wouldn't trade these last months with Barney, my Bubby Boy, for anything, even the tears and heartbreak that it brings with it.

My goodbye

Barney's bed is now empty. If the Bed Fairy should happen to read this, and you would like to pick a RAGOM dog to inherit his special bed, please let RAGOM know. If not when I get back in a couple weeks I will choose. Please know he spent most of these last couple weeks on his bed in the bedroom. Thank you for that comfort for him.

Barney the Handsome

To me you will never know a truer love than that of a senior dog.

Goodbye my sweet Bubby Boy.

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Barney is doing so well I continue to be amazed that no one is interested in this handsome senior. There have been changes going on here and he is dealing with it all very well. He is even putting up with puppy Faith 12-075:)

Barney has shown his interest in balls. Yep, if there is a tennis ball or the big thread ball, he grabs it and outside it goes. He handles the steps very well, he is LOVING his walks in the field. Stopping to sniff and investigate is now part of out routine. He spends more time up on his bed from the Bed Fairy on certain days, but still loves the lower level or the family room big bed. His appetite is good and he has filled out and his fur has grown back in.

The other night we had to run out to do an errand and he met a dog named Sam and just loved him. He was perky, tail wagging, ears up and just followed him around as much as he could. When he was tired he just layed down next to Sam. I think he would love to be with another dog that was some what laid back, could go for walks togeather and just be buddies. Jax looks out for Barney, always running to get him when I say it's time for a walk.

Barney SHOCKED me yesterday. We were going through the gate to head for the field and Jax ran out ahead as always and Barney RAN after him, ears up, tailing wagging, just like ok let's do this. As we headed out into the field he trotted after Jax. It was just amazing. He is coming out of his shell more and more and it makes my heart sing. He knows what go for a walk means and will come and right out the door. What's funny is he isn't fond of staying out and hanging on the deck, and that may be due to the puppy. I think when the weather is just right he's good to go, but doesn't like real cold or real hot.

Our night routine is just that. A routine. Out to potty, in for our 'num num', and sometimes out for one more potty. Then up stairs to bed. Barney will stand and look at me and I tell him ok get on your bed. He does and then I rub his face and ears and massage his body. He just relaxes, sighs and lays down. Even the morning has a new twist. When I get up Barney gets up and walks around the bed and greets me, but more important he lets me rub his face. Then we are off to start our day. He still doesn't come to me when I'm sitting in a chair, at the table, etc. I don't know if he will ever feel like he can/should do that. He has adjusted to the leash and I'm good with that as he was really afraid of it before. He is healthy for a senior, loving, has shown us he can bark when the puppies bugged him, but other than that he's quiet.

Friday we packed up the 3 dogs headed to the metro. We were going to a concert with family and so got there early enough for some outdoor time, but Barney didn't want to eat. We left him in the family room on a bed with Faith crated and Jax and his 2 cousins up stairs. Barney did well over all as he had been there once or twice before. He found the big bed up off the kitchen and the big bed in the lower level family room. If he had to go out he went to the door. He did have to sleep on a different bed that night, but I think it was ok as I gave him his rub down:) He did fine with the other dogs outside, not a lot of interaction, but hung around to check things out.

I don't know what else I can say about this sweet boy except that coming from being dumped to living with us and accepting us has been a wonderful experience. He is undemanding, can be stubborn, likes his walks, and looks at me with those big eyes and I know he's grateful. Yep, lots of younger dogs out there, but until you have had the love of a senior you don't know what you are missing. So if you realize what you are missing out on, give your advisor a call. We'll be here.

Faith and Barney

Barney has filled out

Making a new friend

Monday, March 19, 2012

Hi Barney fans, sorry no update for awhile. We have 2 new fosters at our house, Ray 12-074 and Faith 12-075 and have found that Barney is not fond of puppies. I don't blame him with those sharp teeth and bugging him. I usually make sure to take Barney out either on the lower level or in the fenced area when the puppies are in the house. One day they were all out and I heard Barney bark.....more than once. He was letting them know he wasn't interested in their antics. Only problem is Ray can't hear!!

Barney made the bigger circle for our walk today in the back 40. He continues to improve and needs his walks and if he doesn't get them his appetite decreases. I have to make a better effort to gate the puppies up on the deck and give Barney time out in the grassy area along with his walks. He loves the lower level as it's cooler and doesn't like it when it is warm in the bedroom. But he still loves his special bed and Jax still stays off it. As I have said, Jax respects Barney and that keeps peace.

Since we have had to gate off the hall from the kitchen Barney has let it be known he doesn't like it. He peed a couple times in the living room, so now after eating and tanking with water I get him right out. He was a bit more stubborn about going out when it was so humid. I'd guess the a/c will be his buddy and he'll spend his time in the lower level. He still will grab a toy or ball and the other night grabbed one of the puppies chew bones, went to the family room and promptly dropped in on the doggie bed and put his leg over it. Even Jax didn't try to get it:)

One of the things I try to do a couple times a day is rub Barney's face and ears, and every night I rub him all over and he settles in. Barney does not roll in the grass, but will rub along the fence, he doesn't rub his face on anything and he doesn't scratch himself. Look at your dog and see how many times they do it in a day. So it's important for us to rub him and scratch for him. When he gets in the bedroom on his bed and I get down and start he just relaxes. Still teaching me things to do.

I am like Barney and don't like the humidity, so today was a great day to be out. I find with the puppies here Barney can be a bit more stubborn about things, his way of letting us know we could do without them and the gates that are up. But just like Jax he is learning to adjust. Last call tonight we were all out in the back yard and the puppies weren't bugging him and he was just fine. He is a sweet old guy and it will be interesting to see if he likes the lake when it gets warmer. He always seems to do something that surprises us. So if you've been thinking about Barney and would like to meet him, give your placement advisor a call.

Barney and the kidz!

Barney enjoying the nice weather....

Friday, March 9, 2012

Since I just did an update this will be short on words and longer on pictures. Our new fosters Ray 12-074 and Faith (Ella) 12-075 arrived Wes. and Barney was pretty curious. Not enough so to want to stay in the kitchen with them:) We left every thing as it was except the dining area of the kitchen where the puppies are is now gated off. He does pace back and forth when they get rowdy and loud, will stop and stand looking at them over the gates. I know he would be very gentle with them, but he deserves better than sharp puppy teeth attacking him.

Tonight on 'last call' I threw out a stuffed toy that was in the garage. Barney beat Jax to it, picked it up and carried it off:) WOW. Jax didn't utter a word. When I went back out to get them Jax had the toy. Barney's interest in anything is short term.

We went for a longer walk this a.m., longer than I usually take him. But FD says it's the way he goes out in the back 40, so that's what we did. He stopped to check things out and do some business, but basically did the walk while Jax ran circles around us. I can hardly wait for the warm weather and the field to dry out, he will love meandering on our walks and hopefully we can extend our time.

I have to say I am truly amazed that no one wants this sweet, quiet and gentle senior. His personality is showing through, he's more playful, still not demanding, and such a good walking partner. I think everyone should have the honor of having a senior dog in their lives. What you learn from them is priceless. Life is short, live each day to the fullest. And with 2 puppies in the house our day starts much earlier:)

If you finally realize that you are ready for a gentle soul to share your life, contact your placement advisor. They know where to find us.

Enjoy the pictures.

Barney Ray and Faith	This one's for me!
Barney walking in the snow	I know my way home...

Barney's daily cardio

Sunday, February 5, 2012

To all of Barney's friends who have not seen an update for awhile, I apologize. We were in TX for 10 days and Barney was on vacation in the big city at temp foster Konnie's. She has more dogs and I think it took him a couple days to settle in as he had a couple accidents. But knowing he was with Konnie allowed me to enjoy my time away. However, once home I became ill and have spent the last week in bed with Barney and Jax watching over me. But Mr B told me it was time for his update, get up and get it done!!

So, where to begin. Barney said he'd like me to again thank his sponsors, token givers and the Bed Fairy..........he is enjoying his bed at night. I did try taking it room to room, but I found a certain someone thinks he should use it, no names ok Jax. So the bed stays in the bedroom as Jax sleeps on the human bed and Barney gets his own special bed all to himself. He is so funny as he will lay on a dog bed in the family room and his corner in the hall in front of the door, but in the lower and upper levels he lays on the carpet, no bed. Go figure.

On my special bed

Mr B. is doing GREAT. He is on dry kibble. No more moist on it as when he has moist on the dry he just swallows it all whole and it comes back up. Yuck! He is getting dry treats and his occasional puparoni. He has been chewing on nyla and rubber bones, and even got one of Jax's raw hides. That was not good as I came downstairs to a blood stained dog bed, carpet runner and raw hide. I did just get some dental bones as he does well with them. He has also discovered that emptying the toy basket is fun, but getting a toy and chewing holes in it is even more fun!! Yes, our old boy has hit the chewing stage........only doggie stuff. I gave him his first kong and he really didn't know what to do with it. I tried to hold it and then he got it....but not real interested. Needless to say someone got 2 kongs. I still have to watch him when outside if Jax has brought out a toy as Barney will get it and then try to dig and bury it. What a silly guy. But it is so heart warming to see him pick up a toy or chew on something.

So this is a kong

Barney continues to roam the 4 levels of the house. If you can't find him you know he got locked in downstairs in the lower level when someone was on the computer. We still have to clap our hands and call him, with lights on, and tell him time to go out and potty. He knows the way and shuffles on down/up to the hall way and out thru the garage. It is just amazing the capacity of his bladder. I don't mean to go into detail, but this guy can hold it. We have only had one accident and he has free roam all day. Just gotta know when he gets up, after he eats, drinks a bowl full of water and before he goes to bed.....it's potty time.

We are trying to figure out if Barney likes to walk or not. Sometimes I feel like he thinks I'm punishing him by snapping on the leash for a 5 minute walk around the house or up and down the street. It may be because it's not familiar like the house. But we get out a couple times a day for short jaunts. If it's just in the back and he is done, he is DONE and heads back towards the gate dragging me along.

We have made progress in that we can pet him on top of his head if he sees us. But if we reach for him and he isn't aware we are there he startles easily. He will let me 'rough' up his head, give kisses and rubs all over. When he doesn't want to get up and we know he has to 'go' you have to steer him thataway:) He knows after night potty it is treat time. He also has decided if he paces enough I will think he has to go some more and will take him out. BUT then he thinks he should have another treat. Sneaky old guy. With his poor eye sight I am trying to get him to take his treats 'nice'. If he smells it he tries to snatch it out of your hand. He would not do well with small kids with food in their hands. Our grandson who is a year old will be here for a couple weeks so Barney will most likely spend more time up on the upper level rather than in the family room with us. I don't think he would do anything, as he was good with the neighbors 1 year old, but will watch and see how he does. We will also have to keep his food and water out of the hall way or gate it off. I have thought of moving his feeding/water dish into the kitchen, but I don't think now is the time to try it. After baby goes we'll see. Biggest drawback is that he is the sloppiest drinker I have every had. Course if I continued to move the water dish and he continued to leave water trails I might get the whole kitchen/hall mopped by week's end LOL

We have not heard another bark out of Barney since Brooklyn 11-438 was adopted and left us. She is doing well by the way, and I still get pics and updates. I don't think Barney misses her puppy antics though. Just going up and down stairs with cats that won't move is challenge enough for him. But he certainly is good with the cats. Coulter the black and white one loves to rub up against Barney and he just stands there.

I wonder how old Barney really is. I wonder what his past story is. I wonder if when he wags his tail he knows it makes my heart sing. I wonder if I'm learning the lesson he is here to teach me. Perhaps it's to remind me we all get older, slower, more set in our ways and that's ok. We just need to remember to be more patient and not say Hurry Up!!

Barney would love to be someone's furever old guy. Short walks, something to chew on, patience, love, kindness, pets and scritches, a place to put his special bed, his own bowl and box of treats, and someone that will talk to him and enjoy looking into those old but happy eyes. If you are looking for that special guy to share your home and life with, let your placement advisor know. We'll be here holding the fort down. AND try to get some pics off soon.

Tail wags from Mr B and foster family

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

WOW is all I can say. Barney continues to surprise us every day. He gets his exercise by walking up and down the 7 steps to each level, 4 in all. The upper level still is #1 in his book. He is eating dry kibble and even regular dog treats. He has a bit of a 'tude about going out sometimes and cracks us up. The last couple days he has taken an interest in toys, yes toys. A nubby bone, a soft de-stuffed toy (Brooklyn 11-384 promptly took it away:) whatever is laying around. No argument from the Senior Gentleman of St Cloud. He is more active, wanders around and explores a bit more. He is willing to stay outside a little longer and just enjoy eating snow. He loves eating snow!! He has put up with Brooklyn's flirty ways and romping and cutting him off at the pass when going up and down stairs and in and out. He takes it all in stride. He's so awesome.

Today I was called by my vet's office to tell me a lady came in and wondered if this was where Barney from RAGOM came in with Joyce. Yes they told her. Well, she had a present for Barney and wondered if she might leave it for him and if they would call me to let me know it was there. They agreed. So I loaded the troops up and off we went. Holly brought out a big garbage bag and inside was this beautiful dog bed with the following note:

Barney, I noticed on your RAGOM bio page that you like beds. Here is a new orthopedic dog bed for you (ahem Jax). An old dog can never have too many beds. Barney it's the same thing as a girl can never have too many diamonds. When you're special it shows.
Here's some information on your new bed: It's made of 'memory foam' and that can't get wet. That's why it has a water repellant cover. Always make sure that water repellant side is up. (thank goodness she marked which side was up:) The top cover can be washed and put in the dryer. It might have a faint smell that you won't like for a week or so. That smell is harmless and will dissipate. It's temperature sensitive. When it's cold it will be firm.

Best wishes
The Dog Bed Fairy

I have NO IDEA who the Dog Bed Fairy is, but she came in wearing 'scrubs'. I have thought and thought and can't figure out who she is. I do know she is a kind, generous soul with a great sense of humor. I never cease to be amazed by people's ability to give and give. THANK YOU DOG BED FAIRY!! If you ever want to meet Barney just contact the vet's office and leave your number.......hint hint:) By the way we love the pattern of dog bones on the cover!!! COOL.

I went to the vet to get my present	I can nap here, right?
This is for me, right?	Thank you to the BED FAIRY

Barney will be going to another foster's home while we are in TX seeing our grandson who just turned 1 year old today. He will be with other seniors, but one of those seniors thinks rugs and beds are for chewing on, so Barney's new bed will remain here just to be sure it's safe. I haven't figured out how to keep Jax off the bed, but I think we'll start by putting the bed in the bedroom for Barney to sleep on at night since Jax sleeps on the bed. Then I'll leave it in the hallway during the day since that's where Barney hangs out. I would suspect that once Barney realizes this is his he will let Jax know to keep off:) Then again he is such a gentle sharing soul, who knows.

I keep forgetting to tell everyone that Barney barked!!! One day Brooklyn 11-384 and Barney were out in the yard and she was play bowing and Barney's ears perked up and he wagged his tail. Brooklyn took this to mean let's play and jumped on him..........he turned around and let out one big deep bark!!! I was shocked, but so happy to know he had not beeen debarked........just a man of few barks:) It is the only time he's barked. Even with crazy Jax carrying on, nary a bark. He doesn't hear very well so I clap my hands and kinda yell his name. He looks around and if so motivated will come down or up whatever stairs necessary to go outside. Tonight for the very first time he met me at the door with Jax. He was ready to go out. He is so much more alert. Probably from all those naps:)

I know people aren't usually interested in our seniors, but I have to tell you, you are missing out on so much. I love how Barney has become more social, lifts his head, waits for scritches, wags his tail, loves to be outside, has shown an interest in life around him and takes treats from me. I am so grateful I was the one who got him, I was the one to take him to the vet to get him help, to earn his trust and watch him evolve into this sweet loving gentleman. Who knows how long he'll be with us. Doesn't matter. The fact that he can live without pain and be loved and feel safe is all that matters. To share life with him is a privilege. If you think you would like to share Barney's life with you, you know how to find us.

AND again, thank you to his sponsors, his token givers and to the Dog Bed Fairy. You all rock.

Tail wags from Barney...........

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

First I would like to thank our very own photo Grande dam, Devon T, for all the pictures she takes at our RAGOM events. All the pictures (except the one of Marilyn) were taken by Miss D. Thank you so much for capturing Barney at some of his best.

It's been a while since I've been to an event at Chuck & Don's and I forget how much fun they are. While Barney spent most of his time snoozing the Event away he got a couple of wonderful surprises. First one of his sponsors, Judith C., came to meet him. It's not often that I get to meet my foster's sponsor's so this really made the long drive down worth it. Judith also wanted to buy 'treats' n 'toys' for Barney and Brooklyn 11-348, but since Barney's favs weren't available and Miss B pretty much chews toys up, I asked her if she would donate to RAGOM instead, and of course being the generous person she is, she donated. Thank you so very much, Judith, for sponsoring this sweet gentle guy, for coming to meet us, and for your generosity in donating to RAGOM. I hope you know how special you are to us. AND I'm so glad you got to meet Barney, even if he was snoozing:)

Barney hanging at the event

Second, I have to tell you I met the nicest couple, Gene and Judy. They were just there meeting the troops and decided they wanted to buy something for Barney and Brooklyn. WOW, where do these generous people come from. I gave in and let them buy Barney some soft cat treats, though he can only have a couple at a time. Then Brooklyn hit the jackpot. She got a big chew stick and a sweet potato treat. Thank you so much for treating these kidz. Your fur butt has it made:)

So, as you can see Barney does more than just hang out and sleep. Though that is #1 in his book, he enjoys his short walks, sniffing out new things and making new friends. He has been a very luck guy with his sponsors, people who sent Christmas tokens and meeting people who just wanted to buy him something. He really loved hanging out with Marilyn and a special thank you to her for keeping him company while I just flitted about.

Barney and best friend Marilyn at the Event

Always time for a little sniffing...

Barney out for a quick walk

Barney has decided the upper floor is his place and remains there most of the time. He now sleeps in the bedroom full time. Today I decided he should stay downstairs and gated it so he couldn't go up. I must report he let me know that he was not happy with me and after dinner when the gate was down he was up at his post as fast as he could. Gotta love a guy that knows what he likes and goes for it.

Since Barney snoozed most of the Event away, he stood or sat all the way home. I don't know how he does it, but he seems to be comfortable standing than lying down, go figure. I think he was happy to be home in his own yard and find that all his beds were still here:) What cracks me up is how he knows now at night there is a puparoni treat coming after 'last call'. He will even venture closer to me to get a second piece. What a guy. All in all he is doing great and I hope to get him in soon to check on his weight. We are still working on getting less moist on the food so he will actually chew his kibble. A work in progress.

Once again thank you to all who came out to the event to see Barney. And thank you to the little boy who knew who Barney was and went over and sat by him and just petted him. His mom is awesome to be sharing these dog's stories with him. Thank you for coming out!!!

Foster mom and the crew:

Resident Jax, Barney, Brooklyn, and cats Sedwick (11) Coulter and Bailey

Barney's close up

Barney the Regal

Sunday, January 8, 2012

Barney has discovered the upper level where the bedrooms are and last night slept in the bedroom with us. Now when we can't find him in the family room on a doggie bed we know he's up stairs. He isn't fond of having to come down, but eventually we steer him our way. He is still eating well and so will have to go weigh him next week. He also still thinks at times he doesn't need to go out and needs convincing.

We now have Brooklyn 11-384 and at 14 months she is full of energy. I think she is a bit much for my old guy and he stays clear of her. She did get a bit roudy outside in the yard and I saw him turn around give her what for and she backed off. We still have not heard him bark. It breaks my heart as I think he may have been debarked. But the tail wagging more than makes up for it. It is funny how stubborn he can be and not want to go out and you have to herd him out. He has not had one accident here, just amazing. I love that I can reach for him and he doesn't shy away and will wag his tail. Jax, resident cocker, just loves him and is rather protective of him with Brookie.

Since I am taking Brooklyn to the meet n greet at Chuck & Don's in Bloomington on Sunday I thought Barney should go with. I would like to see how he does meeting new dogs and people. He is rather protected here but is comfortable and that's fine. I want him to feel safe and loved and that's the bottom line. I know he would love a home of his own, so if you are looking for that wonderful senior to share your life, let me know.

Stay tuned for more updates.

FM and the crew

Oh these kids give me a headache....

Handsome Senior

I like it up here!

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Wow there is so much new stuff to tell about Barney, but first off a BIG THANK YOU to RENO'S family who sent Barney a token. He must be very special to have a family that treasures each day with him. But after a couple weeks with Barney, I so oh understand. Thank you thank you thank you. I hope you have many more days with him.

I don't even know where to start about all the good and new things with my B-man. Maybe I'll just try to list them....

Barney goes up and down the stairs to all 4 levels like downtown Saturday night.
When you clap and tell him to come to eat or go out side he 'trots' right up.
No accidents of any kind and infact last night he went to the sliders in the family room and snuffed at the blinds, he let us know he had to go out and go potty.
He will come to me and take a treat from me. How sweet it is.
He has free range in the house and switches between 3 dog beds.
He surprised us by taking a bunch of toys out of the toy basket and just dropping them on the floor.
He doesn't like the cold and you have to convince him he needs to go out. Tell him 'potty' and he goes.
He is eating small dry kibble with moist on it. Go Barney go Barney!!
He wags his tail when we go out, when we talk to him, when outside and you tell him good boy.
The muscles in his hind area is building up due to the walking up and down the stairs a few times a day.
He is so patient with Jax even when Jax gets snarky when he has a toy and Barney lies down by him.
He shares his bed with Jax so nicely
He met Brooklyn 11-384 and his old tail was a wagging, I think he may be in love:)
He actually will 'trot' sometimes when he goes out to potty and he loves to rub his face along the fence.
He loves to eat snow.
He just ignores the cats even when they won't move out of his way
He is a wonderful companion and asks for little in return.
He walks so nice on his leash.

Barney has come a long way from when I picked him up. He is more trusting, loving, eats well and will even hold his head up now and then like he is so proud. Now I remember why I love seniors.

Barney could go to a furever home anytime. He would be a wonderful companion and walking partner. I can't wait to see how he does come really warm weather............well I'd rather hear it from his furever home, but I know he enjoys these warmer days.

We will be at Don & Chucks in Bloomington on Sunday 1/8/12 from 1:30 til 3:00, so if you want to meet this handsome and gentle dog, come out and see us. It will be interesting to see how he does with new people.

Foster mom and the crew

I love you!

Looking good on my walk

I know how to empty a toy basket!

Saturday, December 31, 2011

We had a wonderful Christmas here, made even more special by our gifts from Miles, who sounds like he knows what Barney has been through, and from Anonymous, Santa Paws knows who you are, and Barney sends tail wags thank you. Thank you to all of you who made Barney's journey into RAGOM a great one.

It was a bit of a zoo here with 4 dogs, Barney (no probems) Jax, resident, Haley former RAGOM girl and Daisy Duke the 1 year old lab. Lots of playing and running around. The funny thing is Barney did not take kindly to DD hanging round him or his bowls and would give a low growl!! Yep the old guy can growl, but nary a bark. No problems really, just DD learning to listen what he was telling her.

Barney loves the dog beds in the family room. He must go down 7 carpeted stairs and then walk across a rug to get to the bed. Every chance he gets that is where he heads. The other day I looked and he was on the bed, then he was standing by one of the chairs and sniffing toys and next time I checked he was on the other dog bed under the T.V. He's getting the hang of it. He also knows when I tell him it's time to go out and go potty he will go up to the slider, whether it is down in the family room or up in the kitchen. He gets it!! I also wait for him to go and then tell him to go again, which he usually does. He has a cast iron bladder I think:)

We went to the vet yesterday to check on his weight etc. Wait for it...............he's gained his 5 lbs back!! W000000000 H000000000000000!!

Dr Nancy checked him out and said the ID food really helped get those calories in and he is looking good. Has a little more gitty up in him. So he got his booster shot and is good to go. I have been trying to feed him dry, or mush, or just canned or a combination of all, but he's pretty smart and only likes the canned. I will slowly wean him off the ID (prescription) and go to a different canned. Meanwhile I am putting in small bit of dry kibble to get him accustomed to the texture in hope he will accept more dry down the line. If not, he's entitled to eat what he wants. I think the walking up and down the stairs and the short walks are helping him be less stiff, keeping those limbs working. This week we will now start with a little exercise where I lift up one foot and make him balance on the other 3 for like 10 seconds. I don't think he'll enjoy it, but have to keep working on building up those back muscles.

More big news... he will take treats from my hand. I have to be careful as he just sorta smells them and then makes a grab for it if he decides he wants it. But at least he trusts me to give him food. He still won't come near the feeding stand when I put his food down, but waits until I have walked away, then he will eat. Some things never change I guess.

It was pretty busy here and the one picture I wish I had gotten was DD and Barney on the deck. DD was play bowing away and Barney walked over to her and actually tried to interact. He seems to take a lot of cues from Jax and when I go to the vet with him I take Jax as that seems to ease his hesitation in going in. Barney remains a sweetie and is wagging his tail more and more which tells me he's happy and knows he's loved. I will send pictures soon, things have started to settle down so no more excuses.

Barney would be happy to share his life and love with someone who enjoys short walks, hanging out, and giving him pets, pats and scritches. He is in good shape for all he's been through, so don't be afraid of his health. If you are an approved applicant and can see Barney hanging out with you, contact your placement advisor.

Again, thank you to Barney's sponsors and token givers. It was a gift very much appreciated.

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Foster Mom told me I could write my own update. First up is a big shout out for my Christmas token from Andy 07-406. FM says that number means he came into RAGOM land in 2007 and he was the 406th dog that year. WOW. Thank you so much for the gift in honor of Andy. I bet Santa Paws will leave you some extra goodies in the old stocking. Meanwhile I'm wagging my tail in thanks.

Speaking of wagging my tail, I do that quite a bit lately. Whenever FM talks to me or we go outside and she tells me I'm such a good boy, I give her a wag to let her know it's nice to be praised. I gotta tell ya this living the Golden Life is awesome. I have come to understand that if I go out and do my business FM/FD will let me back in. In fact I'm feeling so confident I laid out in the yard soaking up the rays one day. Foster Dad put some outdoor carpet on the deck steps cuz I like to do my cardio by walking up and down those every day. It's easier going out via the garage, but next to my walks in the field, this is good for me.

So one day FD was walking around and went to the lower level and I thought maybe I should check it out. I got to the 2nd level and discovered this big dog bed and that is as far as I got. Now I will go up and down the 7 carpeted steps, walk on the rugs just to get to that bed. FM said that it's interesting how she finally gets a new wood floor and it's covered with mismatched rugs!! Works for me. I even share the big doggie bed with Jax. He dropped his tennis ball one night and I got it. He wasn't real happy with me so I let him take it back. When I find a ball in the back yard I pick it up and then try to bury it. FD said no balls for me outside!! Doesn't he know burying balls is what I do.

I decided going to FM/FD for pets and scritches is a good thing, as long as they aren't standing. I'm still 'guarding' the front door. My domain. I decided it was ok to walk around the house a bit more and check out where FM is, like in the room that has these 2 machines that make noise. I let the cats smell me and walk by me so we're all getting along. I love Puparoni treats and am almost willing to walk over to FM for one:) FM can stand, bend over and wiggle her fingers and I will go to her. She really praises me and then I wag my tail.

I love my walks in the field. Today when we came back FM dropped my leash and let me walk back on the grass to the gate. I just followed her like a good boy. But she did say something about not thinking I get to wander by myself............mmmm we'll see. When the cousin fur butts come and run in the field I bet I can talk her into letting me walk with a loose leash. Stay tuned.

Today we went to get my shot that was due. FM weighed me and found out I had lost a couple more pounds. Not good they said, so no shot and I had to see Dr Nancy. She checked me out and couldn't find anything surface wise. They talked about how much food I was eating (about 6 cups a day) and decided may be the dry kibble (well FM made it into mush) didn't have enough calories for me. So now I will be getting 3 cans of prescription food plus all the dry kibble (not mushed up) that I want. My mouth has healed up and looks really good. I will have to go back next week and be weighed again. So far I've lost 5lbs and that is not a good thing.

Well, guess I will wander on down to my favorite big doggie bed and have a nap. FM will send in an update next time. Ought to be interesting with the 2 cousin fur butts coming..............I think I can handle it.

Once again thanks to my sponsors and token givers. Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!!!

Tail wags your way,

Barney

Barney loves the big bed!	Coulter the cat checking Barney out
Enjoying the sunny afternoon	Handsome Barney

Tennis balls are good!

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Merry Christmas Barney! From Margaret Murphy

From Andy 07-406

"From Miles, a fellow stray - It's all uphill from here!"

Happy Holidays from anonymous

In honor of Reno, our beloved Golden... We are grateful for everyday we have with him

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Dear Dennis and Joanne, thank you so much for sponsoring me. You guys are so generous to so many of us seniors. My FM says you are always doing good stuff for RAGOM, so I know Santa will be extra good to you this year:) Merry Christmas to you and your fur butt. FM says she hopes to see you on a transport next year. Thank you for caring so much about RAGOM and all you do. Hope your stocking stuffers are the best ever!! Happy Holidays to you and yours.

Judith, thank you so much for being my sponsor. I can't believe I'm so lucky to have people care about me and help RAGOM with my vetting. A week ago I was still living outside and now I'm living the Golden Life.

I'm honored to be sponsored in Abby's memory. When my time is up here and I cross the Rainbow Bridge I will tell Abby how kind and generous you were to me and RAGOM. People like you make all the difference in the world in helping seniors like me to get the health care I need and deserve. I wish you the very Merriest of Christmases, and the greatest of stocking stuffers!!

Margaret, thank you for my Christmas token. Totally awesome!! I know you could have spent that money on something for yourself, a family member, or gifts, but instead you sent it to help with my vetting. I just can't believe how lucky I am and how generous and kind people are. Have a great Christmas and enjoy the holidays knowing you made such a difference by helping RAGOM help me.

I'm letting Santa Paws know you've all been very very very good this year!!

Luv Barney

I told Barney we try to get our Thank You's done right away, but I was slow in checking the site. My fault. I have included a lot of pics this time as I want everyone to see how well he is doing. He is funny in some of his action/reactions. If you want him to come to you but are standing he goes the other way. Sitting he will come slowly but isn't sure about being petted. I lie down with him every night before bed and rub and scritch him all over. He just lays there with his eyes closed...............and then usually passes gas LOL Funny old guy.

He is exploring more of the kitchen and will come to the steps that lead to the family room but will not come down. He will go in and out the kitchen sliders and we have been working on going out via the garage since the weather eventually will get too cold to go off the deck. He does his business and then heads for the door. He now knows where to go to come back in. I have had to circle the cars a couple times when he wanders a minute, but that is less and less. He is eating good, but at 4 cups a day he has lost a couple pounds so will feed him more often. When it's meal time he will start to pace on the kitchen side to remind me it's time to feed him. When I come with his bowl he will go the other way and watch me put his bowl down. I call him and he will take a couple steps but won't go to his bowl to eat until I back up. Then he digs in as you can see by the pic. He is a very sloppy drinker as he has a very soft and jowly mouth, so we just leave a couple towels on the floor and mop as needed. When we go for a walk I put a leash on him and as long as Jax is going, he'll go with little problem. The other night he stopped and sniffed every couple feet and just enjoyed being out. When we went to the vet today to get micro chipped I took Jax along and Barney went willingly. Getting into the van to go was a bit more tricky, but when it was time to get in to go home those old front legs made the effort, and no problem getting out:) The other funny thing is he won't take a soft treat from a hand, but if you put it on the floor he's good to go. Still learning to trust.

I decided that just having a rug on the floor probably wasn't enough padding for his old bones, so I put a dog bed out and covered it with the afghan. Boy does he love that. Only prob we have is if Barney moves Jax will hop on it. During the time I'm gone at work I do gate Barney in the kitchen and Jax in the rest of the house. Not because of any fear of problems, but just so they each have the area they are accustomed to.

I have discovered that if I take Barney's water away about 9 pm he makes it thru the night w/out an accident. We usually go out around 10 or 11 pm and hubby is up by 7 am so he is doing terrific over night. He will even go out via the garage for FD now. You do have to watch to make sure he empties his bladder, or he might dribble a bit coming in, but that's ok, floors and rugs are washable.

One of the things I forgot to mention in my original update is that Barney has cataracts in both eyes. He can see me wiggle my fingers to come to me. He is careful going in and out of the house, but does fine. His hearing is like my hubby's, somewhat selective, but unlike by hubby's, I think he really doesn't hear that good. Clapping hands and a little louder voice and he responds. Barney that is, not my husband!! The bottom line is he is healing, eating well (just needs a bit more I guess), walking, doing a couple steps, has learned what 'go outside and go potty' means, is slowly figuring out if you walk carefully the tile isn't so bad. He does like the carpet in the living room and will explore a minute or two while in there. Sometimes I will let him and Jax out and leave them for a few minutes as I want Barney to learn that I will ALWAYS come back and let him in.

Barney will be ready for his furever home soon. By Christmas he will be back on regular kibble and stronger and able to increase his walks. If you are looking for a sweet senior gentleman who wants nothing more than your soft hands loving him up, short walks, patience to help him continue to trust us humans, he would be the guy for you. I know people always say, Oh a senior, no I can't lose another dog so soon. Or, I won't have very much time with him/her. Aah, but everyone forgets it's not the quantity of time we share our life with them, but the quality of time we spend with them. So making their last months or years on this earth a golden one is what it's all about. When all is said and done, it's about the dog and what they give so freely and the benefits we get for having this dog love us unconditionally. Barney over all is healthy and can enjoy more years in a loving home. But if you are looking for a rowdy barker, that's not my guy. He has yet to bark and I hope it's not because he was de-barked. His eyes say all that's important, he's grateful and wants so badly to trust.

Stayed tuned for the next chapter in Barney's new book of life in RAGOM.

FM and the crew