In this deeply personal and emotional episode of The Big Bark Podcast, host Darragh Bourke honours the life, love, and legacy of his best friend – Milly, his beloved Labrador who passed away earlier this week..

Milly wasn't just a pet – she was family. A loyal companion through life’s most difficult moments, a hilarious rogue with a heart of gold, and a bright light to everyone she met. From belly rubs with the Munster rugby team, to barking at donkeys, to curling up beside her little sister Roxy on the couch, Milly brought joy, mischief, and unconditional love into every single day.

Darragh reflects on nine beautiful years of memories: the walks, the cuddles, the laughs, and even the gin incident in the pub. He shares the story of how Milly helped him and his family through the devastating loss of his brother Shane, and how she continued to look after them until her final moments.

This episode also serves as a message to all dog owners: never take a day for granted, and always prioritise your dog’s health. Milly passed due to chronic kidney failure — a silent condition that wasn’t caught in time. Darragh speaks candidly about the guilt, the grief, and the importance of regular vet checks, hoping to help others avoid the same heartbreak.

💛 This tribute is Milly’s legacy — one of love, loyalty, and laughter.
We hope you’ll join us in remembering one of the very best girls there ever was.

🐾 Run free, Milly. Forever in our hearts.

Summer is here, and it's time to grab the lead and hit the road for some tail-wagging adventures! In this episode of The Big Bark, we’re diving into the best ways to enjoy the sunshine with your furry friend. From beach strolls to woodland hikes, we've got your doggy day out covered!

Today, we chat with the team at Follow Fox Events about their exciting upcoming event Pawmerstown at the Manor at Palmerstown Estate — a must-visit summer celebration for dogs and their humans. Get ready for fun in the sun and pawsome plans!

🐾 The Big Bark Podcast: Crufts 2025 Special – Live from the NEC in Birmingham! 🐾

Join us as we unleash an exclusive episode, broadcasting live from the heart of Crufts 2025 at the NEC in Birmingham! This paw-some special is packed with tail-wagging content that will have every dog lover's ears perking up.

Highlights of this fur-tastic episode include:

• In-depth Interviews: We sit and stay with top brands like Vet IQ, ParkLife Treats, and Pure Dehydrated Dog Food, fetching insights into the latest in canine care and nutrition. Plus, we have heartwarming conversations with representatives from Battersea Dogs & Cats Home and Kids Around Dogs, organizations dedicated to improving the lives of our four-legged friends.
• Meet the Breeds: From the sleek Whippets to the sturdy Tibetan Mastiffs, we mingle with a variety of breeds, sharing the unique characteristics and stories that make each one special.
• Flyball Frenzy: Experience the high-speed excitement of flyball as we bark about this thrilling canine sport, highlighting the agility and enthusiasm of the participating pups.
• Best in Show Spotlight: Celebrate the crowning of Miuccia, the Whippet from Italy, who sprinted away with the prestigious Best in Show title at Crufts 2025.

So, leash up and tune in to this special episode of The Big Bark Podcast, where we celebrate the canines, the competitions, and the camaraderie that make Crufts the ulti-mutt dog show experience! 🐶🎙️

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