Jackie

Jackie loves just about everyone on two and four feet, with the notable exception of UPS drivers, operators of power lawn equipment and ATV drivers. Since we live in the city, ATV’s are not a problem. Jackie came to us for what was to be a very short stay on May 15, 2009. Much to our surprise, our Sam (that’s Sam #2 from ComeBye), who is leery of other dogs, welcomed Jackie immediately. We knew that with his lovable, easy-going personality and Sam’s acceptance of him right away, Jackie just had to be a member of our family, and now indeed he is! Handsome Jackie is a medium-energy guy, who is as fast as any border collie I’ve ever seen. When he’s just walking around the house, he looks the tiniest bit awkward, but give him an open field and something to herd and he’s pure grace! Jackie was relinquished due to a number of unfortunate and traumatic circumstances. He comes from working parents in southern Missouri, and it really shows! Now he herds Sam every day in the park while Sam plays ball with his dad. It’s fun to watch, and both dogs have fun too. Passers by ask my husband how he taught them their routine, and he has to admit that no teaching was involved. Jackie is attending class at the Greater St. Louis Training Club with Dad, where he can get more practice in focusing on appropriate behaviors instead of bouncing over to greet new dogs and people whenever they appear! They’re making great progress. Like Sam, Jackie loves bounding through the snow and wishes it snowed more in St. Louis. He loves to play with the grandchildren too, although he’s not very interested in playing ball (a border collie?). Jackie and Sam spent two wonderful weeks on vacation with family and friends at Crystal Lake in northern Michigan this summer. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to convince either of them that swimming is fun. Maybe this summer? Swimmer or not, we love him so much and are so grateful to ComeBye for saving him and allowing us to adopt him.

Jackson Lee

About 4 miles into the ride home Jack (his official name – just shortened it – no other name seemed to fit!) he figured out his way to the middle seat. We were worried that Millie would freak out but she was fine with it. He then wanted up front so most of the rest of the ride home was a power struggle to keep him in the back seat. He amused himself by jumping from the back seat to the very back after throwing a toy back and forth – it was quite amusing! It was an exhausting ride but we made it! When we got home he wanted nothing to do with doggy dinner – just wanted to explore and play with many toys strewn all over the living room waiting for him. He settled down in his new crate in Millie’s bedroom just fine both nights….that is working out extremely well! They were both zonked by 9PM and slept until 7AM! NICE! We took Millie and Jack for a walk around the neighborhood first thing and he did very well in the harness you suggested. We crated him for about 1 hr so we could go to the pet store for a few more things needed and Millie said he was a good boy…. Chris, Tabitha, Clancy and Charlotte came over about 3:30 and Jim was right…….Jack and Charlotte had an absolute ball! They played in the snow for over 2 hours straight – wrestling, rolling, running, etc. It was very entertaining and Charlotte won the award for the most stamina….Jack eventually just rolled over on his back and played dead. His entire mane was frozen with snow. We decided against the doggy park – weren’t confident how he would react there…we will give that a try this weekend. We are here at work now and they have picked up where they left off. Millie is feeling a bit left out but I am sure when the newness wears off she will have her turn at play. I am calling the clicker trainer located in Barrington today and get him set up for lessons. Also calling our vet and setting up his first appt for Sat afternoon. So…..long story short…..we are totally in love with him as are the other dogs and so thankful that all is working out so well. He is such a sweetheart – a real lover and has so much potential!!!!!