Congratulations to Jeff and "Annie" (while "Ivy" looks on)
If you live somewhere in Connecticut and you think the bird hunter above looks like your veterinarean you probably are right! Dr. Jeff and his wife Ann, also a veterinarean, came into our lives early last spring courtesy of Jim and Lori. Jim was at his hunting club working with and training Miss Brandi when a another club member who had been observing them approached Jim about his Brittany. One thing led to another as he learned Brittanys had been an important part of Dr. Jeff and Ann's life and that they were looking for a new young pup. Brandi being Brandi helped influence his decision to ask Jim where she came from. Shortly after this I received a call from Lori, saying Jim was trying to contact us from the field because he was talking to someone who might want a pup from us. It was not long before Jim and I touched base with each other and he asked if any of Jack and Molly's pups were still available, specifically any orange and white girls. Just so happened a client had decided to select a male instead of a female and indeed, we had a puppy. It's important to note here - neither Jim nor I were aware at the point in time that Dr. Jeff was not only a DVM, but a very well respected DVM among hunters for his work with sporting and hunting dogs.
Soon Dr. Jeff and I were on the telephone enjoying our initial telephone conversation as he asked about us and we asked about him. One thing I told him was that before a new puppy leaves ATB we require proof that a well puppy visit with our clients vet has been scheduled. I asked if he would mind scheduling an appointment with his vet and let us know when, where and with who. I remember there was a brief pause in our conversation just about then, and then he told me he did not think that would be a problem as he WAS a veterinarean. This fact did not sink in right away as I continued right on without a hitch explaining that it would be necessary to set up a vaccination schedule and introduce puppy to her new vet as part of her ongoing socialization; in other words take pup to the vets for something fun. Dr. Jeff was quite gracious and allowed me to continue just a bit more about responsible dog ownership. Soon my well intentioned stream of exhortations about preparing to bring a new puppy home came to an abrupt halt. Talk about engaging your brain before engaging your mouth! I was pretty embarassed about this obvious faux paux. On the other hand, Dr. Jeff was quite understanding and I would also suspect somewhat amused. Although I soon waived certain requirements on his behalf for obvious reasons, at least he was aware how important the well being of our Brittany pups are to us!
Soon after Annie began her 'first day of the rest of her life' pictures and notes arrived with frequent updates. I loved hearing how she had won the hearts of the staff at Dr. Jeff and Dr. Ann's office and other stories. It was interesting to discover too, that even with a background in animal medicine, there were still tips and advice specific to our Brittanys that we could offer. Like how to respond to a young pup when they turn into a relentless, little pirhanna during each stage of teething!
There is another interesting story about all of this. In the fall, the Brittany club that Dawn and Paul belong to held a seminar that included a presentation about hunting and sporting dog injuries. Dawn was interested to see that the DVM giving the presentation owned a young Brittany pup. Later on she introduced herself and asked the vet about his Brittany. They discovered they had something in common, Annie and Bailey were half sisters, out of JackDog! When she told John and I about this I just thought it was so cool. Dawn was quick to point out to us too how nicely Annie was turning out! What a small and wonderful world!
Speaking of Annie, she is full sister to Jim and Lori's Jersie. Jim has had both of their Brittanys out hunting at every single opportunity. I think they are in competition with each other. I've lost count of the actual statistics but I'm sure their freezer is full! The most recent outing resulted in 2 Pheasants for Brandi and a Woodcock for Jersie!
INQUIRING MINDS WANT TO KNOW...
Well, let's just say patience is a virtue! There will be good news soon. Suffice to say for those awaiting an updated J&A's Waiting List to arrive - we'll soon be asking for confirmation of puppy reservations along with the suggestion to get your required reading started: Monks of New Skete and Tarrant Trains Gundogs!
That's all folks! Take care and God bless you and yours always... John, Ann, and All Things Brittany
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