www.iva.co.uk

4 years ago, I wouldn't have considered myself "an animal person". Yes , I had pets growing up,, but I also had a phobia with cats. I faced that phobia 10 years ago and became "mam" to 2 cats. Every day is a struggle, but we have a relationship. Then just over 4 years ago, we welcomed Dobby into our lives. A reluctant welcome on my behalf, but boy did I fall in love with this handsome fella! Slowly, he won me over until my every minute is filled with him. I love him and know he loves me! It's as simple as that.

Despite any other worries in our life, my boy has always been there and gave us a new lease of life. Walking him across the beach at 7:00am, blows away the cobwebs for me, but gives him and me so much joy. A match made in heaven.

Now we are facing life without him, he was diagonsed with a heart condition last week and if tears were money, we would be zillionaires!

My boy is defying the odds at the moment, but I will never underestimate his love to me and my love to him, and the value he has given to my life. If you are lucky to be a parent to a pet, please value your time together, we parents are so lucky !

Julie what sadness, I hope he doesn't suffer and you find the strength to get through this, I have seen how much he means to you. Don't be afraid or ashamed to cry, it will release the stress and help you cope. Thoughts are with you. Get as many pictures and videos as you can, it will comfort after he is gone.

Aww Julie Big hugs.

I've spoken to you offline Julie about this and I'm still awaiting a reply from my friend (I've a feeling she's away) and as soon as this is received I will forward it to you.

I'm so sorry Julie, lots of love to you, hubby, Latch and Teide and of course extra big hugs for Dobby xxx

I'm so sorry Julie - I know what the big fella means to you- love to all of you xx

Thanks for your kind words and thanks also Lesley for your off forum support.

He's acting like his usual energetic self today, which is hard as he has to rest. Needless to say he is being even more spoilt than usual.

Sorry Julie still not heard back but I'm assuming she's on holiday as it's not showing as 'read' either. x

No worries Lesley, the fact that you have gone to so much effort for Dobby means a lot. Any information you can get for us will be great x

You know I'll do my best and loving the new pic of Dobby on FB x

We are so lucky to have you as a friend Lesley. That photo was taken yesterday morning x

Went through the same thing with Charlie, our English Bull Terrier, loved every minute we had him, good memories of Dobby for you to treasure no matter what Julie.

Thanks Andy., Dobby has had the best life possible so far and we will continue to give him everything we can. He has improved my life beyond belief.

Thank you so much Lesley, your friends advice means a lot and has put our minds at ease with the medication. Xx

I know my friends reply (now received) was welcomed by Julie, glad it gave you some comfort and you're looking into its content...hug Julie x