RIP Merlin 4/23/2000 - 1/2/2011

Our family dog and best friend Merlin died on Monday. It was very sad to see him go, but it was time. He was such a sweet dog and was always so patient with all the kids around, but he had developed cancer all over his body and was really having trouble walking and going up and down the stairs because of the pain and weakness. He was one of the calmest, sweetest and happiest dogs I have ever known and was perfectly designed for our family. My brother Roderick and brother  in-law Rich took him to the vet to have the procedure done and Rich stayed with him until the end. He said that it was very peaceful and he was very calm throughout it. Before they administer the sedative, they gave him an IV pain reliever and Rich said that he was immediately relieved of all his pain from the cancer in his body and he seemed very peaceful. I'm so glad that he stayed with him and I know that he is so much happier now that he is living pain-free! I have no doubt that he is a celestial soul and would make a perfect pet for some adoring angels.

Such a handsome boy!

RIP Merlin, you will be greatly missed.

Born Easter morning in the year 2000, died January 2, 2011, almost 12 years old.

Never much liked fetch, but loved to chase birds and rabbits.

Happiest in the mountain trails behind our house, running free without a leash.

Loved to pretend that he was running away, but he would always come back when he lost sight of you.

Always let the little ones tug on his ears and climb all over him without complaint.

Scratching him under his collar was his weak spot.

Ate just about everything under the sun without ever getting sick. He was the ultimate garbage disposal and floor sweeper. My dad called him a first-rate "Crumber" because he ate everyone's crumbs.

Never did learn to roll all the way over. Lazy dog!

Loved to be underfoot. Wherever his favorite people were, he was always nearby.

Always gave "hugs" when he saw people hugging. Unfortunately, his hugs usually knocked both people completely to the floor!

Nicknamed Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh because he was gray and lazy.

Excellent bark to scare away unwanted solicitors at the door. Scared the living daylights out of the deacons collecting fast offerings.

Never went through a chewing phase. He only had his special bear that we called "baby" and he never chewed up anything else of ours. Best dog ever, right?

130-pound mass of love. He was such a lover!

The goodbye hug in his last moments with our family