One hundred and fifty years to the day since Greyfriars Bobby died, Dogs Trust staff paid tribute to his memory.
The Skye terrier who passed away on 14th January 1872, aged 16, is renowned throughout the world for his loyalty and devotion to his owner John Gray by sitting by his Greyfriars Kirkyard grave for 14 years. Bobby was so loved by the people of the city, that following his death he too was buried in the Kirkyard close to his owner’s grave.
Today (Friday) in Greyfriars Kirkyard after Edinburgh’s one o’clock gun was fired, a Dogs Trust posy of flowers was laid on Greyfriars Bobby’s grave by pupils from George Heriot’s School followed by the solemn sound of bagpipes played to remember Bobby’s life.
Speaking at the ceremony Dogs Trust Regional Manager Jack Johnstone said: “As the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, it’s a privilege to be here today to pay our respects to Bobby, who symbolises everything that dogs can bring to the lives of humans, not only as pets but as members of family.
“His story resonates so strongly with the work that we do at Dogs Trust, to protect vulnerable dogs like Bobby.
“Our Rehoming Centres, like those nearby in West Calder and Glasgow, allow for vulnerable dogs who end up in our care through no fault of their own to experience another opportunity to live their lives to the fullest and find their forever homes.
“Dogs Trust was founded in 1891, 131 years ago and 19 years after Bobby was laid to rest. To this day, we continue to campaign for a better future for dogs like Bobby who was cared for so kindly in his years on the grave of his owner, and we will continue to do so for many years to come.”
Dogs Trust West Calder Rehoming Centre Manager Susan Tonner and Assistant Manager Kim McNeill attended the memorial event with French Bulldog Minnie.
The affectionate three-year-old loves a cuddle and is currently in Dogs Trust care awaiting her forever home.