Re: jack russell or jack rat?

In Reply to: jack russell or jack rat?
Category:   Breeding
Posted by:  Vanessa Bearden
Posted on:  March 31, 2002 at 20:40:59

: Help! My husband and I are confused. We lost a JRT? recently and are devastated. He came from the Humane Society, so we don't know his background. We would like to get another dog like him but don't know what he was. He was 14 pounds, 12" tall, mostly white w/ brown spots, had a huge underbite, and big prick ears. His legs were short and he was stocky. He was extremely affectionate and like to spoon with you while you slept. He looks a lot like other JRT's except for these these things + his head was maybe smaller. Could he have been a "Jack Rat"? Are there regular Jack Russells that could look this absurd? We know we could never replace our sweet boy, but we would like another friend who is similar. We'd appreciate your input!

: Vanessa

Response:

Dear Vanessa,

Our sincere condolences on the loss of your beloved companion. And our thanks and gratitude for adopting a needy dog; I've no doubt you and your husband gave your little guy as much as you got from him.

It is possible that he could have been a JRT who had several physical characteristics that "differed" from the JRTCA breed standard. He also could have been a JRT mixed with just about anything. Without knowing what is mom and dad were, it is impossible to be sure what he was...except that he was a sweet, loving companion.

I appreciate that you and your husband know that you cannot replace him and it is certainly understandable that may be more inclined to adopt a similar looking dog. However, I ask that you consider personality over physical characteristics as you chose your next pet. It would be a shame if you passed over -- for example -- a tall, all white, rough-coated, folded-down ear female terrier whose mission in life is to give kisses to and cuddle with her humans. :-)

Again, our sympathies and condolences for your loss. When you are ready to adopt a new companion, I hope you will consider Russell Rescue. I am providing a link to the adoption page.