Bobby was described as a Skye Terrier dog that became famous in 19th-century Edinburgh, Scotland. Bobby belonged to John Gray, who worked for the Edinburgh Police Department (EPD) as a night watchman, and the two were inseparable for approximately two years.[1] Then, on 15 February 1858, Gray died of tuberculosis. He was buried in Greyfriars Kirkyard, the graveyard surrounding Greyfriars Kirk in the Old Town of Edinburgh. Bobby, who survived with John for 14 years, is said to have spent the rest of his life sitting on his master's grave. A more realistic account has it that he spent a great deal of time at Gray's grave, but that he left regularly for meals at a restaurant beside the graveyard, and may have spent colder winters in nearby houses.
In 1867, when it was pointed out that an unowned dog should be destroyed, the Lord Provost of Edinburgh, Sir William Chambers (who was also a director of the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), paid for a renewal of Bobby's licence, making him the responsibility of the city council.
Bobby died in 1872 and could not be buried within the cemetery itself, since it was consecrated ground, instead he was buried just inside the gate of Greyfriars Kirkyard, not far from John Gray's grave. His headstone states, "Greyfriars Bobby - died 14th January 1872 - aged 16 years - Let his loyalty and devotion be a lesson to us all".
One of the best known Human/Pet grief stories.
If only humans had half the loyalty of our pets.
I also have read an article on how it actually helps them to understand and get past it easier if you let them see the body of a deceased friend - if one dog dies at the vet - you should let the other dog see that his friend has passed. I guess they are able to understand on some level and it is better than having them waiting and waiting in vain for the friend to show up. I found that really interesting.(edited to add: this was already discussed - sorry!)
