And as the years go by our friendship will never die (Randy Newman)

One of the hardest things in life is saying goodbye to an old friend. This post is dedicated to Bazil.

I had to make a hard call this week with Bazil. He was in a lot of pain and we couldn't allow him to continue to suffer.  

He had been on a cocktail of drugs for a while and his old body had been showing signs lately that while his mind was willing, his legs and body and hearing weren't. 

Dogs give love and loyalty unconditionally.

Bazil was an amazing pet and as Jade posted on her Facebook - a beautiful soul. 

When she was just about to enter teenagerhood, Samantha worked on me for two years - she would love a puppy. In the end I gave in. 

Bazil was a nightmare as a puppy! Noisy mainly but he quickly endeared himself to us via his insatiable appetite - anything was fine with him; and his playfulness (Samantha set up obstacle courses around the house and Bazil loved racing around trying to please her).

After a time Bazie just became part of our family (extended family too - when we went overseas on our adventures Sallie provided a new playground for him) and we thought he'd last forever.

Of course, that proved impossible and so we had to say goodbye. 

Now it's quite weird around Rochdene this week with no noisy Bazie presence (his breathing was a struggle). Whenever I have worked outside for the past 13 years he has always been within three metres of me. Now there's a large gap where he should be.

Old age catches up with all of us. Even that seedling in the styrofoam cup eventually dies. Doesn't make that moment any easier though, does it!

We love you. Rest in peace Bazie - you deserve it!

Love and peace - Wozza