The Little Dog Who Changed a Life — Thanks to People Like You

Your support helps keep families and their precious pets together, especially when life gets tough. This Christmas, we’d like to share one special story that shows just how much your generosity means. It’s the story of Barcimedes (Barchy for short), a tiny Yorkie with a huge heart, and the person whose life he helped change.

“Barchy came into my life just after my mum passed away in 2020. He was the dog we had always dreamed of, and he arrived at the moment I needed comfort most. Since then, he has carried me through some incredibly tough years. I’ve had multiple surgeries and broken bones, and on my worst pain days, Barchy never leaves my side. He curls up beside me like a tiny, warm weighted blanket and brings a kind of comfort nothing else can.

He is my reason to keep going. I truly don’t know what I’d do without him.

That’s why I am so deeply grateful to The Irish Blue Cross — and to generous supporters like you.

Because of your kindness, Barchy has received everything from his annual vaccinations to treatment for a painful knee condition. The mobile clinic and the wonderful team in Inchicore have made it possible for me to access essential care for Barchy, something I simply couldn’t afford on my disability payment.

And the compassion doesn’t stop there. Even the mobile clinic drivers gently help me lift Barchy onto the table — a small act that means the world when lifting is difficult for me.

Thanks to The Irish Blue Cross, Barchy is back to his cheeky, joyful self, racing around the house with zoomies and filling my days with laughter. Your support means I can keep him healthy, safe, and by my side — just as he has always been for me.

This Christmas, when I look at Barchy’s little face (and at his photo in the 2026 Irish Blue Cross calendar!), I feel overwhelming gratitude. For him. For The Irish Blue Cross. And for caring people like you, who make their life-changing work possible.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you.“

Emma & Barchy