My daughter came to pick Pearl up today and take her back to Brooklyn, where she has lived for seven years. Pearl is a champion Yellow Labrador sold to me by a Vermont breeder after she couldn’t breed any longer. I had her at Bedlam Farm for several years, her legs had to be reconstructed with titanium rods. Emma fell in love with her and I agreed to let her go to Brooklyn, it was a great move for both of them, Emma has taken wonderful care of Pearl and the dog has done well with her. She is fit, affectionate and much loved. She is also getting on, approaching her twelfth year.

For the last few years I wondered if Pearl would come back to visit me again, this time I felt this more strongly than ever, she is slowing down, the arthritis is in her legs is more apparent, she is showing some signs of confusion. I expect I will see her in Brooklyn again, I doubt she will come back to the farm. We had a good visit, she was here a month, she fit in easily and got on well with the other dogs. Four dogs is one too many for me, there was a little relief when she left, and also some sadness.

She is a great dog and saying goodbye to her today had a special kick for me.