The inaugural choice for Pet of the Week, by all accounts a prestigous distinction, was definately a tough one to make. There were several worthy prospects, and I thank all for participating, but the heart-melting eyes of Barclay and his overall mien made him a standout. He submitted this bio:
My name is Barclay James Newton and I am writing to be considered for your new Pet of the Week feature. I feel I deserve this dignified distinction because my parents say that I am the most loyal, loving, gentle and humble dog they know. My mom says I am the dog of all dogs, the Gold Standard. My dad says there never has been a dog like me and there never will be again. I guess they would know since they have four dogs here and one in heaven (Hey Maisie!).
I'm not so sure what all the fuss is about- I'm just doing my job as a dog, man's best friend and all that. I would like to say that I have a particularly special place in my heart for my human cousins- hey Kort & Ken, love ya! Whenever they come to play, I can't even contain my excitement -- I HAVE to get out to the car to meet them and walk them into the house! They're my girlie girls and I love them to pieces! Well, I guess that's all for now. Can't wait to see all the upcoming Pet of the Week articles.
Your Friend,
Barclay
If your pet is worthy of pet of the week, have him or her e-mail me at pets (at) the batavian dot com. Please have your pet send a handsome picture and his or her story. Click here for more information. Your pet could win a $10 gift certificate from Genesee Feeds.
Hi, this is Barclay's mom
Hi, this is Barclay's mom Vicki. I just wanted to reply to this story to let you know that this honor means a great deal to Barclay's dad and I. You see, Barclay was recently diagnosed with cancer. Sadly, we lost him on Wednesday, September 2nd.
Barclay truly was our son. We adopted him right around the time that we bought our house and got married. We were just a couple before him, but he made us a family. He was the best dog that ever lived.
We also wanted to let you know that we intend to donate the Genesee Feeds gift certificate to the Animal Shelter in Barclay's name. He was a very generous, loving, caring dog and would have wanted it that way.
Thank you again from the bottom of our hearts. This was just the pick-me-up that we needed.
Vicki & Tom Newton
Vicki & Tom, I am so sorry
Vicki & Tom,
I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved Barclay! This is a wonderful way to honor him.
Thank you Lucille, for the
Thank you Lucille, for the kind words. We really miss him and it helps to know there are people out there who can empathize.
So very sorry for your loss.
So very sorry for your loss. What a handsome dog. They really are "family". I've been there and miss mine still.
Billie, Pachuco and I are
Billie, Pachuco and I are very sorry to hear about this. Thank you for sharing a bit of Barclay's life with us. He's a deserving first winner.
Vicki, I am soo sorry about
Vicki, I am soo sorry about Barclay. Mike and I had 2 beagles, Shasta and Shauny. They were sisters, and were together their whole lives. They lived to be 15. Shasta had cataracs, and an enlarged heart, and Shauny was put down after the doctor said she had Pylanoma.
Beagles are so loyal and loving. Barclay will be waiting for you at the gates of heaven, when you join him, as will all the other pets that we all have lost. In time your heart will be ready to let another dog in, and you will be ok. It just takes time. God Bless Your Family.
Amy, Billie, Howard, Pachuco
Amy, Billie, Howard, Pachuco & Karen,
Thank you all so much for the condolences. Barclay was a treasure and we are terribly heartbroken at his loss. It is so uplifting to have kind, compassionate people express their sympathy and understanding at this time.
It means more to us than you know to read these words of comfort. Thank you all.
Vicki & Tom