Barney:The Stray Beagle Who Became a TV Star and Stole Our Hearts

As he left for work on a very cold morning in 1991, TV reporter Dick Wolfsie nearly tripped over a tiny beagle on his front step. He invited the little stray into his home and left for work only to return eight hours later to a shredded couch, a well-gnawed pair of heels, mangled curtains and a damp rug. Dick’s wife issued an ultimatum: "The dog must go. Either that or you have to take him to work with you." And so a star was born. When Barney died in 2003, Dick received an outpouring of sympathy and condolences often reserved for heads of state. In BARNEY: The Stray Beagle Who Became a TV Star and Stole Our Hearts, Dick Wolfsie lovingly recalls the greatest Barney moments.

For more than 12 years, Barney the beagle was the most celebrated dog in Indiana. With his faithful human sidekick, Dick Wolfsie, Barney made 3000 television appearances, 14 commercials, hosted his own late-night movie review show and even had a line of Barney boxer shorts. He visited hospitals, retirement homes and schools, and local restaurants named sandwiches and drinks after him. Whether on television or in person, Barney brought joy to people’s hearts wherever he went.