Although his owner isn't on this list, I wanted to share the loss of a great Berner. His name was Mozart and he was ten years old, a therapy dog, and a great friend to everyone who knew him. Mozart was with his second family, having been rehomed after suffering considerable neglect under the care of his first "parents." His second life was a dramatic improvement - Mozart's human dad (Del Wilkinson) took him everywhere with him and they even ran a house-sitting business together - Mozart's smiling face was the picture on the business card. Mozart was the first Berner we ever saw "live" - at our first meeting we followed (some may say stalked) him and Del for 2 miles through the Santa Fe AIDS Walk - Mozart impressed us so much with his gentle character and handsome looks that we were inspired to become the Bernese Mountain Dog owners that we are today.
If you ever came to Santa Fe and saw a Berner, it was probably Mozart walking with Del. They had a very special bond and a dedication to each other which was unmatched. Mozart is undoubtedly waiting patiently by the Rainbow Bridge, watching to see if the next person coming by is Del. If anyone has any messages of support that I can give to Del, please send them to me and I will pass them along. Sue Burnham and Matilde (who learned all of her Bernerly ways from her best pal Mozart) Santa Fe, NM
