Jupiter-NBRAN/PA/Ontario

NBRAN PA Jupiter-February 2012 – July 2024
To say Jupiter was a special dog would be a gigantic understatement. Funny, quirky, serious, intelligent, curious, energetic, playful, stubborn … he had all these characteristics in abundance. He was an amazing dog, a much-loved companion, and an unequalled activity partner.
With nary a thought to the challenges in his early years, Jupiter jumped out of bed every morning (at 5:15 a.m.) with a gleam in his eyes, a bounce in his step and a wagging tail. His happiness with the possibilities of each new day was infectious. He couldn’t wait to get started. That happiness and optimism are what I miss the most.
Jupiter’s needs and wants were simple. He loved walks and hikes – anytime, anyplace, any weather. He loved to learn and seemed to enjoy figuring out what was expected of him. Any behaviour that was rewarded was quickly repeated. He thrived with routine and structure – it gave him the stability he needed to work through anxiety and eagerly explore and enjoy new things.
Meeting new people and their dogs wasn’t his favourite but Jupiter politely tolerated everyone and everything he encountered. Everyone would comment on what a handsome, sweet and well-behaved dog he was – Jupiter would patiently greet each of these “walk interrupters” and then resume his walk as soon as he could, giving me the “I get a treat for that” look.
I was lucky to be Jupiter’s person. I knew he was a great dog, a fun dog, a sweet dog. It was only when he was gone that I realized he had giving me in abundance exactly what I tried to give to him – kindness, safety, stability, love. He was a generous, lovely dog. He is missed and he was and is loved.
I am grateful to all those who contributed to Jupiter’s happy life. NBRAN for their commitment and patience with dogs who are finding a new path after having seen tough times. Jupiter was such a good boy and I know that is because of the foundation he was given through NBRAN.
I wasn’t an ideal Brittany adopter – small apartment, one-person household, no yard, working full-time. I am so appreciative that Sandra Toal, NBRAN’s coordinator in my area, recognized I was committed to providing a high energy dog with an active, happy, healthy life. I hope I did that for Jupiter through agility, rally, obedience, hikes and walks … and, of course, lots of love. We were a perfect fit and Sandra recognized that before I did.
As I grieve the loss of such a remarkable dog, my wish for Jups is a never-ending hiking trail where he has lush, tick-free, green grass on one side and fluffy white snow on the other. I picture him bounding, diving and rolling from side to side without a single care in the world … and every now and then dehydrated chicken hearts rain down from the sky. He was the very best boy, and he deserves nothing less. Until we meet again Jups.
Kim Huson