Barney is an Angel Now.

[Barbara]

Oh my- these last pictures of Barney show how frail he is.
And no- no kitty pees easily in his bed.
I know I will have to take that decision some time- and I'm afraid it will be in this year to come so I wish you and Barney all the best for his long trip.
I know he feels your love- and being loved that much is the best thing that could ever have happened to him.

{{{{{{{{{Hugs}}}}}}}}}

[catmandu]

I KNOW THAT THE ANIMAL ANGELS ARE WITH BARNEY , AND WILL BRING HIM SOMETHING SPECIAL FROM THE WALDORF ASTORIA WHERE THEY AHVE THE FINEST FOOD FOR THIER NEW YEARS EVE PARTY.
AND THEY WILL BE THERE TO ESCORT BARNEY TO THE RAINBOW BRIDGE, WHERE THE WINGS OF SILVER AND GOLD AWAIT, AND SOON HE WILL TRAVEL WITH THE ANIMAL ANGEL ARMY TO THIER TRIP TO THE PACIFIC SOUTH SEA ISLANDS OF BORA BORA AND TAHITI
YOU HAVE MADE HIM SO HAPPY , AND WHEN THE TIME COMES YOU WILL REUNITE IN LOVE.
ONE FINE DAY. WE ARE PARYING FOR BARNEY

[Moesha]

I don't want to be sad about Barney. I'm going to try to focus on the positive things from these last few months of his life. He has brought so many people all around the world together to show him love. He is one very special guy. And even though his time with all of us is brief, he'll definitely leave a mark on hearts far and wide. We'll be here to support Emeraldgreen and eachother when it is time to say goodbye to BarnBarn.

[kb2yjx]

I have to agree with Moesha. Barney has brought all of us from so many places around the world together, to all fight for him to get better, and now to pray for him to have a comfortable passage to the Bridge. This is such a special group, and we do this over and over for anyone who needs our support. Right now, those who need it the most are Barney, Lara, and Scott!!! We are here for you!!! Sandra

[Medusa]

I don't want to be sad about Barney. I'm going to try to focus on the positive things from these last few months of his life. He has brought so many people all around the world together to show him love. He is one very special guy. And even though his time with all of us is brief, he'll definitely leave a mark on hearts far and wide. We'll be here to support Emeraldgreen and eachother when it is time to say goodbye to BarnBarn.

Yes, I'm of the same mind. Of course, it's sad when any animal is ill and it can be disheartening but Barney has crammed years of good living into a few months time. He's known more love from you, Lara, and from PTers the world over than most animals will ever know, especially outdoor cats to which many people turn a blind eye and deaf ear. Barney has definitely become the poster boy for love. Difficult to be sad about that.

[Emeraldgreen]

Our Christmas miracle did happen with our Barney. He brought all of us all together, Barney's Angels, as a family as only Pet Talkers can be. Angel Lara shared and incredible journey of Barney and allowed all of us to be a part of it. For that I am thankful and grateful. Know whatever day is right for Barney to go to the Bridge, we all will be there with you and him in our hearts, minds and spirit.

I think it's a miracle too that he made it to Christmas and to New Years and that my husband let him come inside. And as you said, bringing people together. All positive.

weluvcats wrote:

Emeraldgreen...I've just read your posts about Barney...for the first time tonight. I actually have seen this thread before, but avoided reading it because I knew it would upset me, but tonight I wanted to see what was going on with your Barney....
This decision is never, ever easy, even if you have had to make it before (we have).

Wow, that's ALOT of reading for one night! This has turned into a long thread! I guess the beginning of the thread title that never changed 'Barney is hanging in there' does sound kind of sad. But it only started out sad, got happy and is now getting sad again. But as so many have pointed out, there is more to be grateful for than there is to be sad and I'm going to really try and focus on that.
It's true, it never gets easier to put an animal down. I think Barney will be the 11th pet I've had to make the decision about in my life. I always pray that they will pass during the night so I won't have to make that decision but it never works out that way.

rosethecopycat wrote:

Just put some puppy pads down instead of a litterbox, it will make it easier on him.
No matter how much time his has left on this earth, he will have touched more lives than you'll ever know. Soft Meezer songs for Barney.

I did look at those puppy pads and thought about putting them under the litter box because he does get in the box but pees over the edge. But the ones I saw in town were so expensive. And if I just put the pads down without the box, I think he would pee in his bed again. It's not so bad and as long as I keep on top of cleaning his paws each day, it should be okay.
I will hug Barney for you.

Taz_Zoee wrote:

I am in tears. Even though I knew it would eventually come to this, it is still hard. I think all of us feel like we know Barney personally even though we've never met him.
Lara, you and Scott have given Barney so much in such a short time. I hope you realize that. He knows that and loves you for it.
I'm sorry, I don't know what else to say. I must go wash my face now.

I feel like you guys know him too. He went from being homeless to having the biggest family ever!! And while he may not know it now, I think he will when he gets to the Bridge.

kt_luvs_kitties wrote:

I am so sorry Lara. I am truly sorry. *HUGS*
Barney, I am sorry you did not get the life you deserved. But you had the best end to a life anyone could ever imagine. When the time comes, I hope you have a easy passing, and know that your meowmie loves you so much, and tried her very best everyday just for you, special boy.
If you need anything, PM me. And please give Barney a kiss, and tell him it is from me

Thanks Katie.

Jenn_Librarian:

I think most of us have been hoping beyond hope that this would turn out differently. Wishing on a PT miracle. Well, I think we have seen a miracle, and I think that's been Barney showing us what love and dedication and a pure heart will do to revive a broken animal.

You've helped heal his soul, Lara. You and your hubby both. You've done a wonderful job, and unfortunately with that job, comes the part of having to say goodbye to Barn Barn for all of us. That is a great weight upon your shoulders, my dear.

Please know that we are all here, everyone of us, behind you in this. You have seen this beautiful soul of Barney's day in and day out, and you know he will let you know when it's his time to go.

I'm sure Gary will have the Cat Angel Army out for him when he goes, so that he will have other PT kitties to welcome him with open arms and let him know how special he was to all of us. And maybe Mr. Phred will have Peanut and fellow "silver klowd kats" come down and help him on his way to the Bridge. Lord know he deserves it.

I'm crying my eyes out now of course, and I'm so sorry that you do have to go through this alone, but know we are all there, and we all love you for what you have done for Barney. You are truly Barney's #1 Angel.

(((((HUGS))))) to you and Scott.
Love, Jenn

Thank you so much for that. As it turns out, Gary's Cat Angel Army and Phred's Purrayer Pups posted just as you thought they might.
I appreciate what you wrote very much Jenn.

Medusa wrote:

I just got my computer back; another bad virus, so I was w/out it for nearly 3 days. Barney's was the first thread I went to and I'm just so disheartened to read this, even though I knew that this would eventually happen. Lara, I wish I could be there to help you through this. You've done so much for our Barney and this is so difficult for you, I know. I can recall how I felt when my Puddy was going downhill. It seemed as though I'd make the decision to help her to the Bridge and then she'd rally. My very last post was when you had told me about trying the B complex injected into her bag of fluids and she did so well for two days, it was as though I had my ol' Pudilator back. My last words were "Life is good". Then she suddenly took a turn for the worse and was gone w/in one hour. So I can understand and totally relate to your dilemma w/not knowing if you should let Barney go or not. All I can say w/certainty is that I can see on the video how he's deteriorated but you are the one who is giving him such good care, so you are the only one who can know for sure when it's time. However, it's clear that Barney is ready at any time now, if that's any consolation. You won't be selling him short; you'll be doing the last act of kindness for him but only when you know that he's just plain had enough of this life.
I love you, Barney and I love you, too, Lara. You're the best. ]

Thank you Mary. I will do my best to remember that this is an act of kindness when I take him into the vet. If I think of it this way, it will make it easier. Thanks for checking in on the Barney as soon as your computer was up and running! A true Barney Angel indeed!

Cinder & Smoke wrote:

Ready, Barney? We'll call fur da Taxi <dials God>
< dials da Kat Division > ... < rinnnng >
Hi God ~

Purrayer Pups here wiffa KatHats on ...

Wunder iffin You kan ask Tubby an Peanut ta gas up da Silver Klowd Express fur
a Taxi run down here onna ole Durt Ball fur lil Barney?
He's gotta 'pointment inna KatShop next week fur a major overhaul ta get
ebberthing fixed up fur his New Assignment next year. He's got his appikashin in
wiff Boots da Kat inna frunt office ta be assigned to a lil Kid that needs a Kitty Buddy.

He'll be waitin atta White Coats, wiff Miz Lara ...
Gib her a BIG {{{God'sHug}}} an tell her GOOD JOB!!

Drop Barney off onna Bridge ... Unka Gary reserved da Bridge Room so's da
Kat Angel Army kan toss Barney a nice *Welkome to da Bridge* Partee.

We'd like ta wish Barney a Safe Trip to da Bridge,
an Good Luck on his New Assignment.

< sniff >

THANKS, God.
/s/ the Purrayer Pups

Well... this made me cry ALOT last night! I didn't log on until after midnight and then couldn't stay on because I was crying so much! But, it was the best. Thank you to the Purrayer Pups for getting hold of Tubby and Peanut and God for that matter!! I love the idea that Barney is going on assignment and has a brand new future ahead of him with a little kid which means he'll of course have a family. I'm going to think of this often. Thank you so much!!

Barbara wrote:

Oh my- these last pictures of Barney show how frail he is.
And no- no kitty pees easily in his bed.
I know I will have to take that decision some time- and I'm afraid it will be in this year to come so I wish you and Barney all the best for his long trip.
I know he feels your love- and being loved that much is the best thing that could ever have happened to him.{{{{{{{{{Hugs}}}}}}}}}

Yes, he's quite a skinny mini now. He still eats like a horse but just can't keep the weight on. Thankfully he only peed in his bed that one time though and since I put the litter back in the box, he's been very good.
I hope you won't have to make this decision this year. Prayers that Filou will continue to eat and recover.

Catmandu wrote:

I KNOW THAT THE ANIMAL ANGELS ARE WITH BARNEY , AND WILL BRING HIM SOMETHING SPECIAL FROM THE WALDORF ASTORIA WHERE THEY AHVE THE FINEST FOOD FOR THIER NEW YEARS EVE PARTY.
AND THEY WILL BE THERE TO ESCORT BARNEY TO THE RAINBOW BRIDGE, WHERE THE WINGS OF SILVER AND GOLD AWAIT, AND SOON HE WILL TRAVEL WITH THE ANIMAL ANGEL ARMY TO THIER TRIP TO THE PACIFIC SOUTH SEA ISLANDS OF BORA BORA AND TAHITI
YOU HAVE MADE HIM SO HAPPY , AND WHEN THE TIME COMES YOU WILL REUNITE IN LOVE.
ONE FINE DAY. WE ARE PARYING FOR BARNEY

Thank you. I love the idea of seeing him again one fine day. And thank you to the Animal Angel Army for being there on the other side for Barney to welcome him.

Moesha wrote:

I don't want to be sad about Barney. I'm going to try to focus on the positive things from these last few months of his life. He has brought so many people all around the world together to show him love. He is one very special guy. And even though his time with all of us is brief, he'll definitely leave a mark on hearts far and wide. We'll be here to support Emeraldgreen and eachother when it is time to say goodbye to BarnBarn.
Yesterday 02:25 PM

Barn Barn is a special guy and you're right, it's important to focus on the positive parts of this whole thing and there are so many.

kb2yjx wrote:

I have to agree with Moesha. Barney has brought all of us from so many places around the world together, to all fight for him to get better, and now to pray for him to have a comfortable passage to the Bridge. This is such a special group, and we do this over and over for anyone who needs our support. Right now, those who need it the most are Barney, Lara, and Scott!!! We are here for you!!! Sandra

Thanks Sandra. I'm so thankful that he has many people out there to pray for him. It means alot.

Medusa wrote:

Yes, I'm of the same mind. Of course, it's sad when any animal is ill and it can be disheartening but Barney has crammed years of good living into a few months time. He's known more love from you, Lara, and from PTers the world over than most animals will ever know, especially outdoor cats to which many people turn a blind eye and deaf ear. Barney has definitely become the poster boy for love. Difficult to be sad about that.

It's true, it's not about quantity but instead, quality. It has been short but it has been good. I couldn't have done it without you guys either.
He's warm as toast and I think he knows that I love him and that's what counts. He still tries to attack me sometimes but a few minutes later, he'll bonk his little head on my leg. Never a dull moment with the Barnacles.

I filmed some footage of Barney walking around the house on New Year's Eve and put them altogether in one video. Sorry it's so long, it's about 4 minutes. And it has the usual annoying darkness to it. You wouldn't believe it, I have every overhead light on in the livingroom but it still shows up dark. Drives me crazy. When my husband got off the phone he said "why do you have the house lit up like Walmart?!?" LOL I said "I'm doing a Barney film!"

Anyway, Barney seems to be doing okay on the Metacam. He wobbled around quite a bit and then finished it off with a big plate of wet food. He gets about 6 plates of wet food a day and has a constant supply of dry food available. He eats so much but is still so thin. To be honest, it would be easier if he would lose his appetite, then I'd know for sure it was time. It's hard when he is so eager to eat and still meowing and stuff. But I can't ignore that tumor or how thin he is now.
I have definitely decided that tomorrow is not the day. I've been planning for Monday but I have been thinking that Robin (the vet) maybe doesn't work until Wednesday. I would like her to be the vet that does it as she is the one who has cared for him from the start. But of course, if he gets any worse, I will take him to any of the vets at the clinic. I will call them tomorrow on my lunch break to find out her schedule.

Here is a pic of Barney last night in our living room and below that is the video. I wish I could lighten it but I don't know how. Some parts aren't as dark as others though.

[Catty1]

Please give Barney kisses and hugs for me.

[pomtzu]

I had to smile watching Barney's last video. He's warm and dry and has a full belly - it almost makes one forget how sick he really is. I couldn't help but think "it's not time yet", but Lara, you are the one who sees him everyday and knows what's best for him. You have done such a wonderful job with making his last days as comfortable as possible and you should have no regrets or doubts regarding his Bridge date. I think I can safely say that we all back you 100%.
Hugs to you and Barney!

[critters]

pee pads--Human pee pads are bigger & are usually cheaper if you still want to use them.

[Scooter's Mom]

Happy new year hugs and kisses to our Barney.
Lara, you have done so much for this sweet boy. Most people would have seen his pitiful shape at the beginning and just put him down then. You're an angel for him.

Give Barney a gentle hug and kiss from me, would you?
Crystal

[Barbara]

Thinking of you and Barney today.

[Randi]

Lara, it was good to see Barney exploring, it must have felt good getting around a bit, and it's so sweet the way he follows you. He is such a trooper!

I feel sad that he doesn't have much time left, but happy that he has known love for the last few months. He is warm and has a full tummy and someone to talk to. You have done SO much to make him happier, and I'm sure he's running after you to tell you that.

Whenever you decide it's time for Barney to go, know that we're all here for you. It's such a hard decision, so I hope Barney will let you know when is th eright time. I remember when I had to let Pjevs go - he reminds me very much of Barney. I'm sure Pjevs will be there to show him around and make him comfortable at the RB.

Please give Barney some more kisses from me, I wish him love and comfort in the time he has left. Sit with him as much as you can and tell him how much we all love him!

Big hugs to you.

[MBones]

Lara and all the other PT'ers,

I mostly just lurk and don't ususally comment all that much, but I wanted to let you know that I have also been following the saga of our dear Barney; the first thread that I always check is this one. I've never been one to easily convey my feelings, so I don't say much. But, this little boy has touched my heart like no other. Like you all, I am a certified "crazy cat lady" and have a real soft spot in my heart for those dear animals who need our intervention in order to see that they have the life that all God's creatures deserve.

My DH and I visit the pet stores and shelters to spend time with the animals and it is always heartbreaking to hear their sad stories, and hope that someone like us comes to rescue them. I cry pretty easily when I hear these stories, but rarely have I been so affected as I have by Barney's tale. My heart breaks for this poor boy who spent so much time in the wild trying to survive as ill as he is.

Lara, I cannot thank you enough for taking Barney in and caring for him as you have as well as sharing his story with us. There is a special place in heaven for you, where Barney will be waiting for you one fine day. (To quote Gary.) He is such a special little boy who has been most fortunate to have been able to share the joy and love of being in a warm home, with food, comfort, and most importantly, love. He now knows what love is. This is reflected in how patient that he has been with you throughout all of your care; removing the mats in his fur, the repeated baths, clippings, trips to the vet, ear cleanings, etc. He knows you were trying to help him and ease the hurt. He knows without a doubt that you love him, as do we all.

Bless you and Scott, too, for the affect that you've had on him. I wish Barney could know the effect that he's had in others as well. I can't tell you enough how he's impacted me, and in the best way, too. Times are tough and the news everywhere is so gloom and doom, and yet, here's our Angel, Barney, showing the best in all of us. Look at how he has united all of us, and impacted your husband. I just love this little guy, I feel like I know him. I wish I could just take him in my arms and hold him close, as we all do.

My heart breaks for you as Barney's condition deteriorates. Remember the love that he has shown you as you wrestle with the upcoming days ahead. I will be thinking of you and Barney in the days to come. Remember this final act of love for Barney as it is all he asks of you. Thank you again for all you have done for this lucky guy; I wish all other needy animals were as lucky to have found someone like you.

Peace in the days ahead for you and for Barney.

Now, I've got to go and clean this darn blurry monitor. Funny, it blurs up every time that I'm in this thread; why is that?

Love and Peace to you and the Barnster.

Mary

[kb2yjx]

Lara, thanks for the latest video!! Barney actually LISTENS to you!!! I have mentioned this to the Clan!!! Please give Barney a kiss from all of us!!

[Catty1]

He is so much a part of everything - your house, PT - it seems impossible he could be 'gone'.

I suppose vet Trudy will agree with letting Barney go. I have these ridiculous thoughts like "she'll say, 'oh we can aspirate this and he'll have a few more good months' and stupid things like that.

Like with my mom's Pyka - and my sister - we had to put our own feelings out of the way and put what was best for Pyka and Darcia first.

Please, kisses to Barney for me! *les*