Bristol

Bristol Darlington, the doggiest dog there ever was.

Born in a litter of nine, we knew he was home the moment he was born. As he grew, he molded himself deep into our hearts. Bristol was known by many names Nubs, Bittol, McNubbins, B-Diddle, Bubba, but most importantly Bestest Boy.

We would always joke that Bristol would never die, because he never wanted to disappoint us. He was the biggest lap dog we knew. Bristol always wanted to be close and for you to know he was there. He would guard the bathroom door as if it was his most important job. All he would charge for his hard work was a belly rub.

He loved to play fetch. Bristol would chase the ball all day if we would’ve let him. He had an affinity for tennis balls, cheeseburgers, and left flip-flops (always just the left one!). Once he learned to swim (thanks to tossing a tennis ball in the river), he loved the water. He always enjoyed going on rides, whether in the car or the back of the truck. Bristol didn’t have any enemies.

He made sure you loved him after meeting him. Bristol’s love and huge smile made coming home the best part of any day. He was there for the passing of his mother, Monkey, and was there when Gretta, Tala, and Loki were brought home to be part of our pack.

As it inevitably happens, Bristol grew older on us. It seems as thought that happened in the blink of an eye. Somehow, he became even more endearing in his golden years. As he grew older and slower, he grew to love more leisurely activities including a nice roll on his back in the driveway to get that good back scratch and finding a soft, comfy spot for a good nap.

On the day you left this world, we were by your side. We told you it was okay for you to go.

We would not be disappointed, but sad. We told you how much we loved and how you were the best boy ever. You slipped peacefully into your next journey to the Rainbow Bridge. I’m sure Monkey, Timber, and Talladega were there to greet you.

Rest easy our sweet boy. One day, when our time comes we will see you again. We miss you and talk about you every day. You touched so many hearts and loved with all you had. We love you forever and always, Mom, Dad, Zander, and everyone else you ever met.

“If love could have saved you, you would have lived forever.”