ATB - Importance of Small Beginnings!

As we begin your 14^th trip around the sun, it is fun to recall the years we have already spent together.  I remember when you were born as if it was yesterday. You were the first born and alas! You were also the last and only puppy born.  Back then, we did not do ultrasound or x-rays such as is typical now, so it truly was a complete surprise that you were a singleton.  Your sire (CH Hills Blazen’ Jac JH) was also a singleton so we had the benefit of helpful tips from Hills Brittanys, in Coventry CT.  You were a little piggie because you had the dairy bar all to yourself.  From the beginning, you were a delightful challenge! No littermates meant no competitive nursing from your Chrissy (KJ Requet’s Bouncin’ Crysta). Your weight gain was rapid and because you had no littermates to play with or crawl over, you lacked opportunities for natural exercise.  We used to roll up towels, stuffed toys, and other methods to encourage you to crawl up and over them.  In addition to the deliberate stretching exercises for your legs that we had to do once a day you were gently hobbled to prevent your little legs from slipping beneath your weight. And believe me, the extra work all paid off and you were more than worth it.

One of my favorite puppy pictures of Pippin!

Your personality burst wide open to reveal a spunky spirit, full of sass yet abounding with affection! When you were finally up on your legs and moving well there was a clear bounce and spring to your step. Your movement was stunning even from an extremely young age, your gait near perfection. You made training for a natural free stack effortless for me! We went to handling classes and you quickly understood the game. As much fun as you were, at the time your show career began, I was diagnosed with severe osteoarthritis. I never completely gave up showing you though and when we were together in the ring I was so proud of my happy beautiful spunky Pippinator!  As you matured it was clear you would eventually finish your AKC Championship and with the help of so many others, you finished!

Pip you have always been so much fun in the field too. Just last week you showed once again that your hunting instincts and stylish points are not lacking. As your body desires to slow down now, take things at a much slower pace, your passion for zestful living is still at an all time high.

Bred twice, your amazing legacy will abide as it still passes down through each successive generation of your progeny. Your impressive heritage includes many show champions, a multitude of titled hunting dogs of both AKC and NAVHDA at various levels, and other accolades which will clearly continue to be improved upon.  We are blessed and appreciate knowing this is not only through our program but through the programs of other likeminded breeders recognizing the importance of the versatile, dual Brittany. As a singleton sweet Pip, you are a perfect example of never underestimating small beginnings on several levels. My hope is that you, my little ‘heartfelt legend’, will continue to be seen in many pedigrees yet to come! 

At 13, you are our next to the oldest Brittany here at All Things Brittany. (Scooby turns 14 next month and your son Hemi turns 10.)  Last year, your heart was broken along with mine when Treasure died. The two of you were inseparable from the very beginning.  I remember the many times when the song “My Girl” came on, dancing and singing with you and Treasure, being so silly.  And all those early morning trips to Dunkin Donuts together, the three of us having breakfast together at the water’s edge. I should apologize Pip, for not continuing that as much in 2020 but I will do better this year. Because after all, like Tigger – you’re the ‘only one’!

We will celebrate quietly today Pip-pip.  You will have belly rubs and snuggle times, and we will play a game or two of catch.  Your vision is cloudy, you have some lumps and bumps, a little arthritis but you are still and will forever more will remain a heartfelt legend.  Each day and every night begin and ends with your sweet little face next to mine. Your incessant, sometimes annoying pawing is something I will always yield to as you gently draw my hand towards you to kiss. 

I love you sweet girl, thank God for the joy of your life, and look forward to much more time together! Happy 13^th birthday Pippinator!