That Barley is one spectacular looking dog. So heartwarming to know he got an extra special new owner who loves him. I bet they will become inseparable.

Thanks for good Ellie wishes. We feel Ellie will likely last a few more days. She's so tough!
We feel she is still enjoying all the attention despite being so frail and weak. We had her cuddled in bed with us this morning and she was purring like mad- so as long as she doesn't seem in pain or distress we will keep making sure she's comfortable and loved, and let her gracefully structure her own exit.
Yes, the one very good thing is that it doesn't seem as tragic and heartbreaking to us as Lydia's death, since Lydia was only 8 and was cheated out of half her life, and Ellie is 20 and has had a fabulous golden life.

Another thought that comforts us is that when Ellie is gone, there will be a spot for a new homeless shelter kitty to come into our home. Only our beloved Pearl will be left, and we have always felt that having two cats is ideal for us. So, Ellie's exit after her long full life will give a new kitty a good loving forever home at a time when shelter kitties are so extra desperate for homes.