Jessie's Story

Bringing the Love Home: The Story of Jesse and the Dixon Family
-- By Kate Dixon

About three months prior to seeking a Golden Retriever, we had to put down our 14 year old Springer Spaniel, Ben. After his very emotional passing, we agreed that we did want another dog. Time passed and we quickly realized that our family was not complete without a four legged friend around. So much to my surprise, I suggested we talk about getting another dog.

Well of course, Dave and the kids were thrilled at the idea and we began to discuss what kind of dog. We all agreed that we wanted to give a good home to a dog that really needed one and started searching the internet. Golden Retrievers have long had a reputation for being a great family dog. We all agreed and the search began. We quickly found the Grrow website and I was very impressed at their procedures and seeing the dogs. The concept that you must wait 24 hours before agreeing to keeping a dog. That seemed so smart.

We immediately began the application process and were quickly contacted by a mentor (Bob) in the area that wanted to come for a home visit. Well Bob showed up with two Goldens, one 11 years old and the other one a bit younger. The kids played with the dogs, we visited with Bob. It was a fantastic experience. We hated to see Bob leave with his "visiting" dogs. He was great to tell us about the breed and the advantages and disadvantages of different ages or stages when getting a dog. It was very helpful. We quickly realized we were interested in a younger dog, but not a tiny pup.

After our interview, we prepared ourselves to be patient and when the time was right we would get a dog that was best for us. We were quickly contacted about becoming a foster home for a Golden, realizing that we could adopt the foster dog if they were a good match. Colleen Fleming called us and made us aware of Jesse's situation, and wanted to know if we would be interested in meeting him. From the first moment, Dave and Harrison met him, we knew this was the newest member of our family. Jesse rode the hour drive home with Dave and Harrison with his head rested on Harrison's lap the entire ride. Jesse was such a gentle spirit and responded so well to everyone in the family.

He was a little shy at first and had to learn where to go potty, etc. but he came around in no time. He doesn't realize that at 60 pounds he is not a lap dog, but that is okay. He craves love and affection and even snuggles at the foot of our bed, once he thinks we are asleep. He made the 8 hour trip to Michigan over Thanksgiving and was so thrilled when we all returned back to Wisconsin. He loves to ride in the van and has no intention of being left out of a trip.

As I am writing this he is curled up on the couch next me, sleeping soundly. He is not thrilled about the doggie antlers that Jacqueline likes him to wear, but he will enjoy the new dog toys that Santa has already wrapped for him.

It has truly been a fantastic experience. Yes, I would highly recommend [adopting a dog through Grrow].