Sadly on Saturday morning, Billy, light of our lives, best friend and my constant birding companion died after a recent battle with cancer.
Bill's arrival into our lives was somewhat fortuitous. He had been purchased by a family in Oswaldtwistle (where I used to live) as a six week old pup for their kids birthday. Unfortunately for Billy the novelty of owning a dog wore off for them after just a few days and he was abandoned in the streets. A work colleague narrowly avoided running over the wandering pup and when he told me about this encounter, I told Keith to go and get the pup. This was one of the best decisions I have ever made.
Bill brought a huge amount of joy into our lives and although I have kept dogs all my life, Bill was very unique. Hugely intelligent, Bill was a quiet dog - he would bark maybe once a year and frighten himself when he did so! He observed everything and had numerous ways of communicating to us which we learned over the years. He had a mischievous side to him which he showed occasionally and also a very stubborn streak at times. He has battled various illnesses over the last 2 years but was ever full of life and always had a grin on his face when he got what he wanted (play fights, any food, particularly cheese and maltesers and going for walks).
He has left a huge hole in our lives.
Billy, 31 May 1997 to 21 July 2012. We will miss you!