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A Loving Tribute to Dougall

Doctor Dougall
Doctor Dougall (later Professor Dougall)

Champneys Diamond Geezer – 27/05/2007- 08/01/25
Doctor Dougall of Cavalier Castle (later Professor)

What a geezer he was, Dougall certainly lived up to his name!

Goodbyes are never easy, but this is one of the hardest we have ever had to face. Nothing can prepare you for this kind of hurt. We only ever wanted our beautiful boy to live a life full of happiness and love, no fear, worries or pain.

Dougall was the sweetest, most adorable, and loyal friend we could have asked for. He brought so much joy, not only to humans, but also to other furry friends. Five months short of his 18th birthday, he was frail and tired, and we said goodbye to save him from any suffering.

Dougall & MollyDougall, from a litter of 9 puppies, came into our lives at just 9 weeks old – the same week as his adorable sister Molly, who was from a different breeder. Dougall and Molly (who sadly passed away a few years ago) were devoted to each other and enjoyed a wonderful puppyhood as the cheeky twosome. Two puppies together were extremely hard work, especially as Dougall was always so mischievous!

Dougall was diagnosed with Chiari-like malformation-associated pain (CM-P) at the age of 18 months. Despite this devastating diagnosis, Dougall continued to thrive under a lifetime of devoted care by his amazing neurologist and friend, Professor Clare Rusbridge, bouncing around and being King of his Cavalier Castle. We will forever be grateful for Clare’s knowledge, experience, friendship and love.

Molly, Dougall (centre) & Professor Clare RusbridgeWe are grateful for the loving care from Dougall’s amazing groomer, Karen Barnard – her patience and skill were always so appreciated and kept him comfortable. Also Dougall’s wonderful veterinarian, Mark Nelson; and his physiotherapist, who worked with him for several years, Danielle McMahon.

Despite his CM-P, Dougall lived a full life. As a puppy, he enjoyed training classes for three years, and together with Molly, he was featured in several puppy training books and DVDs. They attended charity events together, entered line dancing competitions, and had so much fun.

We joined the Cavalier Talk forum, set up by Karlin Lillington, to learn more about the health issues affecting this amazing breed. At that time, much of the information available was written by medical professionals, and difficult to understand for the average pet owner, especially for complicated conditions such as Chiari-like malformation-associated pain (CM-P) and Syringomyelia (SM). This inspired us to create the Cavalier Matters website, which led on to the fundraising and acquiring charity status.

Puppy DougallWe ‘met’ so many lovely people and their Cavaliers on Cavalier Talk, the start of a wonderful community, many of whom are still in contact to this day. Dougall was the last survivor of the Cavaliers of that time, sadly.

Some of the Cavalier Talk people went on to create the Cavalier Companion Club, to arrange meet ups, parties, health talks etc.

When Dougall was three, we rescued Dotty, an absolutely terrified little girl who had been used for breeding at one of the worst puppy farms. When he met Dotty, Dougall’s face was a picture, because she smelled so bad.  Despite this, he accepted her, and she became another friend and playmate.

Puppy DougallOver the years, Dougall opened his big heart and shared his toys and home with many more poorly rescued Cavalier brothers and sisters. He loved with a true Cavalier temperament for a very long time. He was part of a family of six, and it was decided he should become the Cavalier Castle doctor. Prof Clare Rusbridge later promoted him to Professor.

Dougall used to have great fun chasing around the garden with his friends. He shared his most treasured toys; giant, coloured fluffy balls that could always be found around the house and garden. We used to laugh about Dougall and his famous balls. He never failed to raise a smile from those around him.

Puppy DougallDougall welcomed all doggy visitors; everyone from a tiny squeaky Poodle, Poppy, Naughty Nala to his giant cousins, Standard Poodle Marty and Scarlet.  One year Dougall hosted a garden party for 80 Cavaliers, all of whom he enjoyed meeting, and everyone had great fun.

Dougall always adored car journeys. In the last few months of his life, we would put him in the car and drive him around twice a day without fail, as he would sit by the door and demand to be taken out.

Molly & DougallOne by one, his family left for Rainbow Bridge, leaving him alone. When his last friend, Lilly, passed away, poor Dougall pined, spending all his time looking for his friends, and was quite depressed. We very quickly adopted the Lovely Lulu, whom he adored straight away, and this brought his spark back. Soon after, Lucky, another rescue, came to live with us.

The Cavalier Matters charity, which supports research into Cavalier health conditions and helps raise funds for rescue and reform, is the legacy that dearest Dougall and Molly have left behind. Without this adorable duo, the charity and the Cavalier community connected with it would never have existed.

Dougall & DottyOur hearts have been shattered into a million pieces; we will never forget the unconditional love and joy Dougall brought to our lives. He was our first, and he welcomed all his other friends and then saw them pass away. He has been ever-present for over 17 years and his passing has left an enormous void in our lives, hearts and home.

Lulu and Lucky will carry on the legacy that Dougall has created at Cavalier Castle.

Run free our sweet boy.

Dougall & Wooden CreaturesCongratulations to Dr Penny Knowler

Cavalier Castle CavaliersDougall & The Lipstick

Molly & Dougall SleepingDougall's Birthday Party

Dougall's Many HatsCavalier Castle Cavaliers

Dougall Dog's Health Magazine CoverDougall at Mark Nelson

Dougall - Because I'm Worth ItDougall Puppy Birthday

Dougall's Daily DutiesDougall's Disobedience ClassThe Chase is On

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