Big Bad Bailey II
Ironically, Bailey, ARF's last resident dog, passed over the rainbow bridge, to be at peace with the rest of his ARFmates, only 1 week after I wrote his story. Either it was fate or just bad timing. I really wasn't expecting to write his final story so soon. I'm just not ready.
Bailey loved ARF as much as ARF loved him. Even until his last days, a loyal crew of ARF volunteers tended to him daily at Steve Gilbert's house. They did this to make sure Bailey was never lonely while Steve was at work. Most dogs should be so lucky. We can't thank Steve and crew enough.
Usually when I write a story I have a general idea of what I'm going to write before I put it on paper. Not this story. I was caught be complete surprise and am at a loss for words so I'll keep it simple.
Bailey was a big spirited and spunky dog. He loved only a handful of people but if he loved you it was obvious. Living at ARF for so many years didn't bother him much at all. I was the only true home beside Steve's that Bailey ever had. He loved being the leader of the pack and we at ARF admire Bailey's unique attitude. He wasn't a dog to be denied.
Now that Bailey has passed, the last sliver of the old ARF has been removed. We on longer have ANY animals under our care, That's the first time we can ever say that in our almost 40 years. The old ARF feels a little more distant in your memories. It feels like the end of a chapter.
Like Bailey, the Animal Rescue Foundation will not be denied. Without ARF, who knows what would've happened to Bailey? Baily will be forever in our memories, as a loyal and good friend. We are all blessed to have known Bailey for however short of a time. Dogs and cats don't live as long as their owners, it's one of life's cruel jokes. Bu that won't stop us from loving and remembering our Bailey. He defined ARF and we will never forget him.
The new shelter will soon be open. Even though our shelter will be state of the art and much bigger and safer, it will not have the same feeling. Dogs like Bailey, Buddy, Lucy Rose, Merlin, Buster, and our longer tenured cats created ARF's charm. I only hope that we never forget that ARF is here for animals like Bailey. Bailey started his life in a cruel and abusive home. He left this earth being loved by many caring volunteers and family. Who could want more? Bailey never did. He was a happy dog. Thanks again to everyone who continued Bailey's care after the fire.
Submitted by Joe ARF, friends of the Bailster
