ABR SUCCESS STORIES
Do you have a Brittany Rescue success story you'd like to share?
E-mail stories & photos to success@americanbrittanyrescue.org
Petey
Hello - It's about time we shared our success story with you. What you've done for us is priceless!
We found handsome Petey on your site in the summer of 2008. I remember the night we picked him up at the airport here in Calgary. Poor Petey was understandably out-of-sorts, as he flew from Texas to Alberta that night. We brought him home and waited for his pink nose to come around.
Lorie Weaver told us a bit about his past...that he had been caged for long periods in a rural setting in Oklahoma, and scared of pretty much everything. So, welcome to the bustling city - where airplanes and light posts and mailboxes are scary! This dog needed some love and reassurance. We immediately signed up for some intensive dog training to boost Petey's confidence and get him used to being with us. We're lucky to have celebrity dog trainer Brad Pattison in our city and we all learned a lot. Petey really responded and his fears slowly but surely went away.
We take Petey everywhere. We're quite active so he's seen his share of mountain hikes, lake swims, beach visits, camping, snowshoeing and doggy playdates. Then things REALLY changed. We welcomed two wonderful children to our family! Petey was very accepting, gentle, and protective of his new packmates. Petey continues to be absolutely adored to this day. He just had his 11th Christmas with us and he loves searching his gifts under the tree and ripping them open.
Petey has started to show his age a bit - he's now pretty deaf and likes his naps, but still runs like a puppy at the dog parks and keeps the squirrels in check in our yard.
Thank you so much in helping us find Petey. Please find attached a few fun moments we've had - and hoping for many more to come!
Regards,
Brad & Kim Powell
Louie

This is just an update on Louie, sometimes called Lou-Lou or Louie Boy… a 1 ½ yr old male Brittany we adopted through your organization. Louie is one of the most kind, calm and gentle dogs we have ever met. He is very content to lay his head on your lap and if you let him “in” your lap to cuddle. In addition, he gets along with his bossy new sister-dog, Sadie and the two of them are inseparable. They insist on sleeping together in their kennel or in the garden, running endless laps around the pool and fighting over who gets to retrieve the rope toy they love so much (He always lets Sadie win even though she is much smaller than him). Just since he has come to live with us he has learned his basic commands like sit, stay, come and to retrieve his toys and bring them back multiple times. In addition, he has many children between the ages of 8-16 and male/female grand-dogs of all sizes that visit him throughout the week and he is always happy to play and love all of them. We love our Lou-Lou and are so happy he has joined our family!
Misty
Misty was supposed to be a foster. She was 13 and her human had died unexpectedly a year before and now the teenage neighbor who had taken her in could no longer keep her. She was obviously not pure Brittany, but Michelle Falkinburg wanted to help her anyway and Misty needed to be picked up quickly. We had just lost our Brittany, Abby to lung cancer and wanted to look for a younger dog, but fostering Misty seemed a way to have a dog in the house while we looked. Misty was obese, at 42 lbs. she needed to lose at least 8; she had severe hip dysplasia in both hips and the arthritis to go with it. Even her front legs were weak from being so heavy for so long. She could not even muster up a trot. Her liver enzymes were high, dogs get fatty liver too!! She needed a lot of rehab. Misty had a Brittany heart and disposition – she was a super sweet, feisty girl (her nickname became “Miss Bossy Pants”) and we fell for her very quickly. We adopted her and my husband took her swimming every day - the pounds came off slowly but surely. With laser therapy, Adequan and a green bean and raw food diet she had 2 great years of increased mobility and gave us so much love and happiness we didn’t miss having a younger dog at all.

Misty taught us important lessons: have a plan for the care of your pets if you die or become incapacitated even if you are young and healthy (Misty’s owner was in his 50s and single when he died); don’t feel guilty about putting your dog on a diet-it can buy them years of pain free life. And a senior dog has so much to give. Even though Misty was with us only for two and a half years, we would do it all over again. We miss her every day and are grateful that ABR opened their hearts to a Brittany in spirit if not in DNA.
Trina
On a snowy, sleety day, February 10, 2018, I drove from my home in Missouri to Independence, MO to pick up my new Brittany, Trina. Your awesome ABR volunteers braved the wicked weather to carefully, and lovingly transport this precious cargo to me. After several texts from the drivers, and a bit of a delay due to the weather, I finally was able to meet Trina and put her in my car for our trip to her new “forever home.” While I endured a rather “white-knuckled,” slippery trip back home, Trina settled in and promptly fell asleep in the backseat. We managed to arrive home safely and began getting acquainted.
Trina is an 8-year-old Britt with such a sweet, loving disposition. She immediately reminded me of my previous female Brittany I had about 8 years ago. I had initially wanted a younger dog, but when she became available and I was able to speak to her foster parents, I immediately fell in love with her. We had exactly one week to bond before my second Britt appeared on the scene.
You see, the very next day after deciding to adopt Trina, NBRAN, whom I was also working with, called to say they had a one year old female available, if I was interested. After seeing pictures of this dog, named Ruby, and speaking to her foster mom, I was smitten. I caved and agreed to get her one week after I was to pick up Trina.
It has now been over 3 months since these two adorable, sweet, and loving dogs have come into my life and I can honestly say, rather than me “rescuing” them, they “rescued” me! My husband, Steve, love of my life, died suddenly on April 18, 2017, and I was so lonesome. We had a Brittany while we were married, and I had also owned another Britt before. I always adored this breed, so was anxious to bring another dog into my life again to fill that emptiness. I really had no idea how awesome having two dogs would be. They get along very well with each other and have become such buddies. Ruby, the younger one has energized Trina and helped her stay active. Trina, on the other hand, has been a good role model for Ruby, and helped her calm down somewhat. I have seen a positive change in both dogs. They make me laugh every single day and have managed to bring some much-needed joy into my life.
I can’t say enough wonderful things about all the dedicated, loving, caring people I met through ABR and NBRAN. It was obvious right away how much all of these awesome people care about this breed and go above and beyond to help and care for them. You are all to be applauded!
Thank you, ABR for bringing Trina into my life! I love her to pieces.
Carra
The Tremains (Tom and Debbie) adopted “Carra”, a beautiful
orange and white six-year-old Brittany through ABR. They picked her up in
Brunswick, Georgia on April 30, 2017, from her foster family, and she has been
a part of the family ever since in Bluffton, S. Carolina. Carra quickly settled into her new home. She enjoys the wildlife in her backyard:
birds, squirrels, moles, frogs, lizards, etc. She also looks forward to her
daily walks through her new neighborhood and frequent visits to the local dog
parks where she and gets along great with other dogs. Carra can out-run almost
any other dog there and her parents often get asked if she is still a puppy! She
loves her new parents and likes to snuggle on the couch in the evenings as well
as jump in the bed in the middle of the night.
Carra also goes sailing with the family at Hilton Head
Island and particularly likes to watch the dolphins coming up for air and all
the different sea birds. Her new mom has been taking her to a local “Agility
for Fun” class and Carra really seems to be a natural and has done well. On occasion,
she goes to doggie daycare and the staff just love her. Another customer asked, “Is she a Brittany?”
and followed it up by saying they would give up all three of their dogs if they
could have a Brittany like her. At home, her new parents learned quickly she needed
an invisible fence in addition to the four-foot physical fence to keep her
safe. She adapted perfectly to the
invisible fence and has respected the boundary ever since.
Carra has never met a stranger and always wants to love on any
new visitors to the home. She has a Grandma who comes over occasionally to take
care of her when her parents are going to be out. She has never had an accident in the house but
on occasion has pulled a loaf of bread off the counter when no one was home.
She communicates clearly when she needs to go out and loves her doggie door
that gets her out to the family lanai.
She gets regular veterinary check-ups and the doctor says she’s in great
health! Carra craves love and attention and is so happy to be in her new home.
Luna

Happy “Gotcha” Day to our girl, Luna (formerly LuLu from
Iowa). Luna, now, lives in a suburb of
St. Louis with us. We adore her, and she
has brightened our lives ever since we adopted her 1 year ago today.
She is growing up with two newly turned
teenage boys who just love having her around.
Luna loves her long, daily walks and a great belly rub. She joined us on a trip to the Gulf last
summer, and we discovered she loves to swim.
She is a joy to have around. We ❤️
our Luna-bear!
Thank you ABR for making
this happen.
Teddy
Teddy (formerly known as Remington) is scared of new people and places, so it’s taken me a while to get a photo to send where he looks as happy as he is. I adopted him November 5, and he quickly told me all he wanted for Christmas was a chin rest.
He’s gotten that and more; he’s probably the sweetest dog I’ve ever had the privilege to live with. In our short time together he’s learned quickly not to mark, not to chew on my remotes or glasses, and positively to sit, shake, come, and stay.
We have a lovely long life of adventures to which to look forward, and I thank ABR for bringing us together!
Elinor Warner
Fozzie

This is Fozzie. He is one of the special Brittany pups that came from Nebraska. My parents, ABR volunteers, knew this was the dog of my heart and drove from Michigan to Nebraska and back to bring him home to me. Did I mention it was February in the Midwest? That wasn’t an easy journey. They were fairly experienced with wicked winter Brittany Rescue treks, as they braved a storm on New Year’s day a few years before to go to Wisconsin and back in a day to bring Suki home.
Sarah

This Saturday our beloved Brittany Sarah
whom we adopted from ABR in 2002 decided it was her time and after 17 years on
this earth. She hung on a whole year longer than I thought she would and
was a true fighter till the end and was out roaming the yard till her last day
on earth. On Saturday October 28 she took her last lap around the yard
came inside and decided to say goodbye. I held her in my chair for about
an hour and she decided to calmly just go to sleep.
She was truly a
blessing and made coming home always exciting knowing she was waiting to get outside
and smell all the world had to offer her. This picture was when she was
14 and still able to get up on our picnic table to get a birds eye view of all
the creatures that roamed into the yard.
When the time is right I will be
on the lookout for another ABR rescue to live with our other Brittany who
misses her terribly and out other 2 dogs. Thank ABR for allowing me to
share 16 wonderful years with this great girl.<o:p />
Lady Rose
Hello American Brittany Rescue
My name is
Lady Rose, I am a 12 year old French Brittany and I would like to share my
story. My former owner was no longer able to take care of me due to health
reasons. It was at this time I came to the American Brittany Rescue folks and
this is where my final journey started.
I went to
my new foster home and they took great care of me, not an easy task as I am
blind and deaf-a challenge for some folks, but not them, they provided a
wonderful home for me. The day came when some folks in Minnesota heard about me
and decided to make application.
They had a
Brittany named Hope that passed away in 2009 at the age of 14. With the help of
my foster parents, I was transported to Ames, IA where I was met by a woman who
delivered me to my new home on March 25, 2017. It only took me two days to be
able to navigate my way around both inside and out.
My new dad
took moms pillows off the couch to protect me from the coffee table corners,
and that is where they remain bungee corded to this day, mom doesn't mind.
We go for a
mile walk every night when they get home, cause mom says I put on too much
weight after my spay, I love to eat! We track our walks through an app on moms
phone-Walk for a Dog. They donate to the humane society my mom works at for the
times we walk. I have lots of foster kitties she brings home, but I just ignore
them.
My dad has
two rescue exotic birds named Keyta and Tinker, they have their own room right
next to mine and they're my buddies-kind of ironic given I'm a bird dog! My mom
and dad also do babysitting for other peoples dogs, so I have lot's of friends
that come visit. I've had several spa days with the groomer that I am starting
to enjoy very much, she's even painted my nails. I live right by a zoo in town,
and I have met two Zebras that love to run with. I may not see them but I sure
do smell them, and they come running when they see me.
My most fun
thing to do is to go swimming in the Mississippi River, it makes my joints feel
good, and mom says it helps with my weight. I know my mom and dad love me very
much because they don't go anywhere very often without me, and boy do I love a
car ride-I use to get a Pup Cup now and then but mom put a stop to that after I
put on a bit of weight.
I have a
harness identifying me as blind and deaf dog that makes me feel secure. So
Brittany rescue thank you so much for helping me find this wonderful place and
I love my mom and dad. I just wish they would lay off all the constant hugs,
petting, and kissing-NOT.
Thank you
American Brittany Rescue
Lady Rose
Note from
parents: Thank you and God Bless you all for everything you do for every animal
that comes in to your care. Lady Rose has brought such joy to our lives, as
well as that Brittany attitude we missed so much, we feel like she's been with
us our whole lives. She had us wrapped around her little paw the first
day!
Penny Lane
Hello,
Thank you for letting us adopt Penny Lane. But I wanted to tell you a bit about why we did. Your organization cares about the dogs. Period. The dogs come first with everyone. Very simple.
I have had animals my entire life, dogs, cats, horses, cows, birds, goats...Love them. I'm purchased them and I've adopted or rescued. I quit using rescue and adoption organizations about 10 years ago, I got tired of egos there being more important than the health and well being of the animal. I was frustrated to say the least. I still took in animals privately but that was it. I placed some in great homes that they are still in or the animal has passed. We have kept a few ourselves. No regrets on any of them.
We have had our second Britt for a little over 4 years. Bought her before she was whelped. Great breeder of hunting and family dogs. She is the light of our life. We travel a lot to horse shows and she goes with us. Dauntless has 20 states and 4 Canadian provinces to her travel credits already. She hunts, she plays with our cat, she cuddles in the evening with my husband in his chair and she sleeps with me every night under the covers. Perfection.
One evening in early August Cheri Wilson posted a happy birthday photo of Penny Lane and a short story. I didn't want or need another dog but I was captivated by her smile. I messaged Cheri and she told me the story. Sigh. I asked a few questions, she responded. Medical history, medications, temperament, exercise level...Cheri answered every question. I told her I would sleep on it and get back to her the next day if my husband was interested. I didn't sleep much. When Greg got up I told him I was going to show him something but if he had any reservations AT ALL to say so and I would drop it. Told him Penny Lane's story, history, medical needs...and her photo. He turned and said "let's do this". Am I not married to the greatest guy ever? So I contacted Cheri and she told me how to start the process. Every contact along the way with ABR was awesome. Paula, Sarah, Diane and Cheri. Everyone put Penny Lane before anything else. There was no agenda. NONE. Your organization has made me believe there is still good out there to be had with rescues. Your group has nailed it! We love Penny Lane. Hope to do a little hunting with her this fall, our vet believes she can but has told us how to monitor her exercise level. She has already gone to a horse show with us and did very well. A little anxious when we left her in the RV the first day but by the second she was well adapted. She has gone to the lake and the beach demonstrating her swimming ability that Cheri told us about. She plays with her fox and blanket every morning, just like Cheri said also. It is perfection squared. Thank you ABR for trusting us with this great senior girl, Julie Poor
Penny
PENNY’S JOURNEY
A SENIOR BRIT FINDS HAPPINESS
It
was a cold, dark Friday afternoon in February 2015, a snowstorm was promised
for the next day when Herb received a phone call that an older Brittany had
been turned into the municipal shelter and was not adjusting well. I rushed over and found that Penny, a 9.5 yr
old female, had been turned in by her only owner - who had decided “he wasn’t
gonna do no more huntin’” and didn’t need/want his dog. Poor girl, left alone in a concrete floored
cage. I made arrangements for Penny to be “pulled” by American Brittany Rescue
on Saturday when I would hold her until arrangements could be made for a proper
foster home.
But
later that Friday a family decided to adopt Penny. Great! All ABR machinery was stopped and Penny went
to her new home.
Several
months later, I learned that it wasn’t working out well for Penny. She was not happy. She had become
incontinent. I offered to take her. No
dice. Weeks passed and finally the owners relented. After checking with
Michelle, I took Penny home. She was
sweet, but oh, so confused and scared!
Yes, she was incontinent, so I put her into doggy diapers (not a new
idea to me!) so that she could have freedom around the house. I tightened her feeding, watering and
bathrooming and things improved, but she still was not there. Meanwhile ABR (Michelle) spared no expense (I
was amazed!). A UTI was identified and
treated. She improved. Finally, I added a homeopathic treatment and lo
and behold, within 2 weeks she was totally DRY!
Penny,
my Brit, Chevy, and I went on long walks as summer turned to fall. Penny liked to mosey along smelling the
flowers while my brit liked to be out in front checking the doggie
messages--that left me hung up in the middle.
Penny loved to pick up acorns along the road, and thought that was a
no-no, so she would hold them in her mouth and give me that “wha? Me? No”
look. After days of these laughable
moments, I let her keep her damn acorns!
She
seemed to have a problem with strong sun, she squinted. So I bought Doggles and, amazingly, she left
them on...at least for a while. (Picture
of Penny in doggles with Chevy). 
Herb
was forced into a tough decision - keep her or let her be adopted by another.
She is so sweet, so easy-going, and so loving.
She bonded beautifully to me, but two dogs at my age was going to be
difficult. Adoption was the best option.
After negating a few candidates, Ms. Helen L., contacted ABR. She seemed
to need a dog as much as Penny needed an owner all her own.
Helen her new
owner had made arrangements during the summer of 2015, to move to a life care community in southern Pennsylvania..
That month’s community’s newsletter had photographs of the resident dogs and comments
by their owners. I had lost our last
Brittany at the age of 16 in 2013 and had decided that because of my age I
wasn’t going to get another dog. But when
I saw the newsletter, I told myself I could do this and immediately went on the
ABR web site, that afternoon and there she was - the third Brittany down the list. She was the
right size (under 40 pounds), the right color (orange and white), the right age
(9 ½) and the right sex. Her name was Penny – the same as the name of one of
our former Brittanys. We were obviously meant to come together.
The adoption
process began. I had several conversations, both e-mail and phone, with Herb,
her foster, and the local ABR volunteer – who inspected a totally empty apartment
prior to my move in. I went to New Jersey with my daughter on October 27, 2015
to meet Penny and hopefully bring her home. We visited for a while and I took
Penny with Herb and his dog Chevy for a walk in the neighborhood. Herb hated to
see her go, but he relented, papers were signed and her ”worldy belongings”
were packed. After a two hour drive from New Jersey, she was home with me. My
daughter remembers that the first thing she did when we entered the apartment
and I sat down was to jump on the couch (still her favorite place) and put her
head in my lap.

While she is
still anxious around large dogs and groups of people, she has made a great deal
of progress and has a number of doggie as well as people friends. Strangely,
she does not voluntarily go outside without a leash. Recently she has
progressed to coming out if I am on the patio, checking things out, but then
goes right back inside. It was a number of months before she began to modify
the game she played with Herb and we now play a
‘keep away’ and ‘gimme’ game. When I come in from even a short absence,
she grabs a bone, dances around with it – tail wagging furiously all the time
–until I get her to ‘gimme’. Then I throw it along the floor and we do it again
– and again – and again. After some months, she began to use a tennis ball in
the same way. Now she sometimes even plays this game when I haven’t been gone.
She was obviously a hunter. She is also an explorer. She is alert to everything around her and
will check out anything different, even if it’s only a bunch of dry
leaves. There is often a fox around, and
when she sees it nearby she points, fox sits, and they stare at each other for
several minutes until said fox saunters away. She has also learned that
chipmunks hide in drainpipes.
Though she
still squints some, she no longer wears her Doggles, and she is in good health,
with no problems at 11 ½. She accompanies
me to the library and lies on the floor quietly while I read the paper. She is truly
smart – it took only two trips before she knew she didn’t have to wait for me
to open the automatic doors to the clubhouse – or that she doesn’t get one of
the treats that are always on the reception desk until we leave.
A very special
dog came this way. We met late in life and now she walks with me – on the
sidewalks, in the woods and through the fields. Penny, Come – let’s
‘takeawalk’.
The
only person who did not do well in this adoption was Herb, who lost a wonderful
dog.
Copper
Hello ABR!
Here is Copper, who my family rescued back in
2014. When he arrived to us he was shy, still needed to put on weight, and was
a little scared.
But now, Copper is a healthy weight, loves people, and loves
to hunt little critters that roam around our house! When we pet him and stop...
you better be ready to pet him all day because he nudges and licks you until
you start petting him again! He is truly a sweet heart after everything he had
been through and brings a smile to all of our faces.
He has a little brother
who is also Brittany named, Eddie. They play outside, sleep together, and get
into some mischief around the house :)
Copper has been a true blessing in our
lives and we love him more than we ever thought possible. We appreciate
everything ABR does for the breed we love most because without them, we would
have never met Copper.
Thank you ABR,
The Mender Family
Marco
Just wanted to share why our dogs are so wonderful and
important to us. We have Murphy (the big guy) and Marco (our new little guy from
Spain!) We could name a million reasons that we love our fur babies so much,
but we’ll leave it at this: is there ANYTHING in this world that can make your
heart smile as much as seeing a brittany wag his butt in excitement? Well, now
that we think about it, maybe a brittany curling up on your lap, or looking at
you with those big, sweet, inquisitive eyes and giant smile, or possibly every
moment you spend with them? Basically what we’re trying to say is that there
are no words for it, they just make our life complete.
I mean, come on, look at those faces!! :-)
- Olivia and Cole Reichenbacker
Socks

In Memory of Socks 2001-2017
We adopted Socks in 2001 from ABR. The irony of Socks'
story is that I had grown up with Britts. My father was a hunter and we always
had these great dogs in our lives. My partner had always had Labs. When
we decided to get a dog, we always said no matter what that it would have to be
a rescue. I was always searching ABR as selfishly, I wanted a Britt. One day,
there was Socks...a Brittany/Lab mix. It was kismet! His coat was all
brown except for his four feet and a patch on his chest. A few months
later we met Socks and his foster family in Rockford and took him home. We kept
his given name as it was perfect for him and why change the name he knows? Each
and everyday since picking him up, I feel that I was blessed with the best gift
EVER.
For us, it was love at first sight with Socks. From the
beginning, he was definitely more Brittany than Lab. Man he could run like the
wind and was super agile. In fact, weeks and even days before he died he would still
run like all get out. He loved to swim, loved the boat, loved running, eating
and begging. He was stubborn as a Brit- had his own agenda when it came to
"Come", loved people, was selective with who his dog friends were,
did not like going to the vet and any sort of grooming such as nail clipping,
brushing and teeth cleaning were always a battle. He was the sweetest boy
and a love bug. If only I could give him one more hug and kiss on the
head...
There is the saying "I know love, because I had a dog."
We all know the truth in that. I now know the magnitude of that love
because my heart is so broken without him. For 16 years, he was my
constant companion and love of my life. As he got older, when I would
leave the house to run an errand or would have to leave him for a few days to
travel, he would look at me with that sad face as if asking, "where are
you going? " We had a deal, Socks and I. I would say to him "
I always come back for you little man, and you have to tell me when its
time." We both kept up our end of the deal. Thankfully, his passing
was unexpected and happened super fast. I had no decisions to make, he
made it for me.
The joy of having him for 16 years far out weighs the pain,
at least I keep trying to convince myself of that. I miss him terribly, but
know he is somewhere running like the wind and eating all the treats he can.
Thank you to ABR for the gift of Socks.
Zeebo and Liberty
Happy Anniversary to us! One year ago on
Mother’s Day weekend, 2016, we drove from East Tennessee to Champaign, Illinois
to meet ABR President Terry Mixdorf and pick up our newly adopted dogs, Zeebo
and Liberty. This was only a short time after we had to euthanize our two
Brittanies, Joy and Scout, only a few months apart at the age of 15 years. That
was devastating. And I was really lost without them. It was as if the house was
dead. There was no life, no little feet, and no eyes following my movements around
the house. No one watching me cook. So when I tell people that we got two
rescue Brittanies from American Brittany Rescue, I know they think we rescued
the dogs, but really, the dogs rescued me.
I read stories of adoptions that sound ideal-
everything goes smoothly and everyone lives happily ever after. But to tell you
the truth, when we picked Zeebo and Liberty up, and drove away with them, I was
shocked, and a bit apprehensive. They were pretty wild, and rightly so, in
retrospect, as we were strangers whooshing them away in a strange car! I
wondered briefly if we had done the right thing.

We are lucky to have an almost 2 acre fenced in
yard, so at home were able to let them really stretch their legs. We had ordered two 30 foot long check lines from a hunting supply company so that we
could let them be free in the yard but still be able to get them if they did
not come. That did come in handy; as they needed to have the come command
reinforced a lot those first few weeks. The dogs were amazed at the big mule
and the sheep that live in the barn and have access to the pasture adjacent to
the yard. At first they barked at them, but soon, with a few verbal
corrections, they figured out that these strange new animals were part of the
family. Spring is a wonderful time for birds at our country house- especially
the Purple Martins and Barn Swallows. They swoop and circle low in the yard in
search of insects. This was another thing that amazed Zeebo and Liberty, and
they ran in circles, following the pattern of the swallow's flight.
I took a week off from work dedicated to getting
to know our new best friends. We tend to follow a strict routine, which worked
well to settle them in and help them to feel more comfortable. They quickly
began to predict when we would get up, go to bed, feed the livestock, and our
selves. We fed them at the same time and place every day and used the same
wording for communicating to them, and soon they were listening and following
our commands. Terry told us that they liked human beds, to cuddle, and would
"climb inside your skin if they could" and that is the truth. I have
never had such loving and cuddly dogs. They are obedient, attentive, active,
fun, funny and good natured, and I can’t imagine life without them. Thanks to
Rebecca Rockwell Wallace the ABR coordinator for Tennessee and Terry Mixdorf
for connecting us with these two!
Angel

When
we first took Angel in as a foster dog she had pretty bad separation anxiety
and was stressed whenever we left the house/crated her, resulting in a few
successful escapes and chewing of door frames! After a couple of months we were
able to adopt her.
She has fit right into our family and loves her new brittany
brother Echo. Her favorite hobbies are playing fetch, playing keep away,
barking at rabbits and deer, talking back, wrestling with Echo, and snuggling.
My husband and I love her so much and are very thankful she has relaxed and is
comfortable in her new forever home.
With
love,
Logan,
Mallory, Echo, and Angel
Luna

We adopted Luna (formerly known as Lulu) through ABR on Saturday. She's from Iowa and traveled South to join our family in the St. Louis area. She's such a sweet girl, and we are so in love with her!!
She has already found her favorite places to snooze in the house and loves squeaker toys. She is a very loving girl.
Thank you, ABR!!!!! Adopted by the Stoll Family
Marley
Marley was a stray dog picked up by animal control in Dickinson, ND. There was absolutely no information provided about Marley, except that she was an intact stray female dog. My husband, Tyler, made sure we would only have Marley for a couple weeks until her "forever home" was found. I named her Marley (a dog name I have always love) and my mom knew I hoped for a different outcome.
The pound holds dogs for 10 days, then releases them for adoption. I had planned to pick her up for ABR from the pound on the afternoon of her 11th dog. The volunteer called me back and did not want Marley at the pound a second longer. I picked her up as early as possible on Wednesday morning. Marley and I went home to join our other Brittany-Ruger and Finn-another Brittany we were dog sitting. I always bathe dogs immediately when they get to my house. I scrubbed Marley clean of the "pound" smell and then I will never forgot what happened next. Marley crawling onto my lap after her bath (with me still sitting on the edge of the tub), and I rocked/cuddled her for at least 10 minutes. She wanted to be held and loved the human contact. For the rest of the week (I happened to be off of work due to Christmas break), we snuggled and she slowly warmed up to the other dogs in the home. She was never scared or aggressive, just cautious. Marley had one accident in the house, but figured out where to potty right away.
After a few weeks, we fell more and more in love. Marley gets along so well with Ruger. They compliment each other perfectly, love to play, and go everywhere together. Marley was fixed a few weeks after coming into foster care. She was sore and whining on the couch from the anesthesia the evening of her surgery. Tyler held her and comforted her while I ate supper. He did not want her to be alone. At that moment, he realized she was right where she belongs.
We had a few health concerns about Marley, but she is perfectly health! She was drinking water non-stop and trying to eat her food, Ruger's food, our food, all food. We had her tested for diabetes due to the high water consumption. Everything came back in normal range! She still drinks quite a bit, but her excessive over-drinking has gone away. She still likes to eat (don't we all?), but she has stopped pushing Ruger out of the way to get to his food. I don't know if she needed to learn it would always be there? Either way, she is doing great! She was also nervous about leaving our side during walks. Ruger would run around in the field, but Marley wanted to be held constantly. She has finally overcome that and now runs alongside Ruger to chase birds.
Marley loves when people hold her paw and will take any human attention she can get. She is also learning about the "good life" (we think she was an outdoor dog) of sleeping in the middle of Tyler and I on our king sized bed. On weekend mornings, she likes to wake us up, roll over, and receive belly rubs for as long as possible. Marley and Ruger are an inseparable pair! We also find that caring for two Brittanys is easier than caring for one. They still require several belly rubs and treats from their humans, but they also enjoy wrestling and spending time together. It was a great decision to adopt through American Brittany Rescue!
Lauren Roemmich
American Brittany Rescue Volunteer
Harrison and Sophie

Never in our wildest dreams did we ever imagine that we would leave the Charlottesville farm. Our journey with ABR started last holiday season and ended in the DC metro area. Not quite the Brittany Hillbillies but close. The transition to urban living in an Arlington townhouse was challenging at first. To actually live in a house and follow family rules was strange to us. Instead of chasing chickens, we were on leashes chasing squirrels and an occasional rabbit. We were introduced to foods like salmon, ice cream and peanut butter. The cuisine of Northern Virginia suits us just fine.
Our new family makes a big fuss over us and shows us a great deal of love. They call Sophie “diva” and “the bossy one”. The only nickname I’ve gotten is “Harry”. That’s what I hear when I jump on my parents’ bed. We love going out for squirrel chasing, getting our bellies rubbed and eating treats.
Though we have calmed down a little bit from our days on the farm, Mom learned from a neighbor lady who owns a spaniel that there are training classes in our area. It is not the same school our older teenage sister attends but one that teaches us how to follow instructions better by giving us treats. Don’t know how that works but sounds good to us.
Our family said we will celebrate our adoption with Frosty Paws and peanut butter smeared Milk-Bones. We are ready!
Annie
Hi everyone.
This is Annie in So. California. I moved here on March 12th, 2016, from Salt Lake City, UT. So, my Mom, Dad and I just celebrated our first anniversary as a family.
I’M SO HAPPY)!!!
I’m sorry that I didn’t wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, but I was so busy helping my Mom get ready for my first Christmas with my Forever Family. My brothers and their families from PA and TX came. Boy, there are a lot of them, including two youngsters, and not wanting to miss out on anything, I was really tired at the end of the day.
Again, I thank everyone who helped me get adopted, especially Diana Dorian (the CA Coordinator for ABR), who vouched for my Mom and Dad to my Foster Dad, Mike Barlow (the UT ABR Coordinator), that I’d have a good home here.
I’m also grateful to the Pilots and Paws organization, where my Dad found two generous pilots, John Cadia and Reyna Meenk, who transported me from Salt Lake City to So. CA
I hope all of the other Rescue Brits, who find their Forever Home families in 2017, have as good a home as I have and are as happy.
My Mom and Dad want to add something.
Annie
Chuck and I can attest to the fact that Annie is well settled in, happy and loved to the moon and back. She craves attention, petting and love, probably more so than any of our previous three Brits, who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge. And, we’re only too willing to provide it.
Thanks again to everyone. She’ll always be loved and cared for.
If you’re thinking that you want to adopt a dog, there’s no more loving breed than a Brit and no other Brit rescue organization willing to help you as much as American Brittany Rescue (ABR).
Posey and Chuck Leech
Bello

Bello's Story
After being rescued by ABR from a hunting camp
in Texas in 2011, fostered by a loving family, Elizabeth and Tommy near
Austin and adopted on March 9, 2012, I continue to live happily in
Arizona. I enjoy 3-4 walks around our neighborhood with my humans, Jim
& Theresa each day.
I continue to make new friends while on our
walks. I am staying trim but sometimes I do get treats from our neighbors
and I remember where those special friends live. I enjoy my backyard,
laying in the sun and hunting any little critters that hang out in the
yard. I am so happy that ABR came into my life.
Marley

We
adopted Marley from ABR in April, 2007. He is now 10 years old. He
has brought so much joy into our lives. He is our third Brittany and we
could not imagine our lives without a Brittany in it.
Nancy
Blais
Jack

Jack was adopted in March of 2016.
He was overweight and had very high anxiety from living on a chain in his
previous backyard.
Jack has managed to conquer both of his issues since being
adopted. He has lost weight and his anxiety has decreased tremendously. Jack
enjoys spending time with his sister Hazel and dad Matthias. Jack LOVES playing
in the snow and is starting to enjoy hunting trips. <o:p />
Kaela

11.5 years ago I was saddened to have to have my first Brittany put down due to health issues. Friends encouraged me to find a new girl to take her place-even searching the ABR website for available dogs in our area. Through some searching, I was connected with a woman in Albequerque who had a female Brittany of about 2 years that was looking for a forever home.
Kae-la became a part of the family in July 2005. She was an energetic and loving girl--she loved her snuggle time with anyone who would provide snuggles! She also loved "the hunt!" It was not uncommon to find a starling, squirrel, raccoon, or woodchuck presented as a token of appreciation. I'm still convinced the squirrels in my neighborhood have her face on a wanted poster! Sadly, at 13.5 years and after 11.5 years of providing love and smiles to our home, she has walked across the Rainbow Bridge. I so appreciate the love that ABR brought to our lives!
Thank you for all you do for such an amazing breed.
Ken Schofield
Max
Max (formerly Shiloh) is learning all about being an indoor dog. His dog sister Roxy has been showing him the ropes and they love to play. He loves his long walks...and jogs if Dad is up to it.
Dad has taken him to the country to look for birds and run around in the tall grass.
He is great at the dog park and meeting new people. Now, we just need to convince him that the people food on the counter is not for him
Max is a great goofy addition to our family and he makes us laugh every day.
We are so thankful to American Brittany Rescue and his foster family for giving him a safe place to land and for getting him healthy and strong!
- the Imbergamos
Sammy

My husband, Jeff, and I adopted Sammy, a Brittany
mix, one month ago. We can not thank ABR enough for bringing such a joyous
addition to our family.
This sweet pup LOVES her big brother, Doc (our 11 year
old Brittany). She has brought about a new energy in Doc. He is a playful pup
once more!
They enjoy hiking together in the woods, playing/wrestling in our
yard, and chewing on bones.
We feel we are blessed with two perfect fur babies!
Thank you ABR!
Annie

We adopted Annie as a puppie almost 13 years ago.
We
just lost her just over a week ago. She was a great addition to our family and
are forever grateful to ABR for bringing her into our lives. RIP sweet
girl.
Benji

We just lost our Benji Boy he was adopted from ABR in August 2009.
Benji was a wonderful sweet boy. Such a good dog with an
abundance of enthusiasm.
Always happy and always enthusiastic. So friendly.
He made our time with him so enjoyable. He was loved by
all - especially small children. He had such a happy face.
We will miss him greatly. Thank you for the opportunity to have him as a member of
our family, Kenneth and Susan Niles
Ryder
It is hard to believe that it has been almost five years since Ryder came into our lives. He was very young when we rescued him. His first owner neglected him so he had little interaction with humans. It is a tribute to ABR who gave Ryder a second chance. They work so hard on behalf of the breed to educate prospective owners. While we were very familiar with the breed, they took the time to help us understand Ryder's unique personality. Something you will never get with a puppy store "breeder".
To say that Brittanys are smart and loving is an understatement. Ryder added so much to our life. He has endless energy, learns quickly and show us unlimited love. When we recently moved to a smaller house we were concerned because Ryder had a smaller yard to play in. We were not sure how he would adapt. Quite to the contrary he made new friends with our neighbors who walk their dogs by our house everyday to play with Ryder. Everyone knows him by name and love stopping by to see him. He continues to make us laugh at how he wins over the people he meets.
There are so many deserving Brittanys on this website that would make an awesome addition to your family. We are so happy we took that step to talk with ABR about adopting. It was a win win for Ryder and our family and it will be for yours.
Isabelle

We recently lost our
sweet Isabelle who came to us in Green Bay as Ginger from Kansas City, MO in
October of 2002. It was love at first sight! She was the sweetest
girl and we had almost 14 years together.
She had a big yard at home and an
even bigger woods to explore at our cabin in northern Wisconsin. She had many
other Brittany cousins to play with through the years. I think it was a
win-win for us all! Thank you so much ABR for such a wonderful match! Jean Schierl
Abigail "Von Beautiful" VerBeke
My husband, Jeff grew up in a rural area, with a hunting family! Spaniels galore! So when we decided to get a Brit...we decided to "adopt," hence ABR!
After 6 months of trying to get a younger dog (most were on the east coast) we got a pic of an older Brit but I did not "see it!" That moment when your heart goes out and you "yes!, that's mine. Then 30 minutes later, we got a picture of Abby, with a message "you might be interested in this rescue!"
We'll her pic popped up at 6:30pm and by 10:30pm On April 3rd it was confirmed...B'gail had a new home! Reserved an SUV, and begain plotting our journey to IL/IN border pic up! (We were a foster - adopt situation!) We still send pictures to her "first mamma" and kids! Due to job losses and financial issues, they couldn't keep Ab's! (And yes, Abby sends mommy Amy "pup-pic's" for her b'day, Ab's b'day, Ab's "gotcha day, etc....
Sooo...hot-rod Miss A...well, her day is filled with so much activity! (I was told by ABR, that because my yard is not fully fenced we can adopt!) We actually are stomping in the woods, ravines, ponds, the Mississippi, river! We hit creeks, and lakes! Lucky Ab's...well her grandpa lives next to a private boating resort, so ya pup get's all 4 seasons!
Fast forward....this pup is living "la vida loca!"
JJ
We have had JJ for about 3 months and things just keep getting better and better. The other day, we were walking around the local middle school and our walk happened to coincide with school getting out. We met lots of kids trudging along home, with their heavy backpacks.
JJ loves people and wants to greet everyone. Our other Britt, Gage, (also adopted from ABR), is happy to be petted but is not so forward. JJ wiggled with delight as we approached kids. I explained he loves people and asked if he could come get petted. The kids all said yes, and I let JJ go up to them. JJ doesn't jump up on people, but literally bounces up to them, wagging his body (he doesn't have a tail), smiling and "talking" (he does this grumble sound), clearly being so glad to see them. The kids invariably broke into big smiles and petted him, and then Gage went up to get in on the attention. We said, "Thank you" for the petting and went on, repeating the process with the next kid...
Brittanies spreading happiness
Patch

In
Memory of Patch, 2004-2016
First and foremost, my wife and I
want to thank ABR for placing Patch in our family 4 years ago.
Patch crossed over the Rainbow Bridge yesterday in a peaceful way with his
human family present. Patch was a
special family member who was a devoted and loving companion. His health
deteriorated quite rapidly due to a nerve defect that impacted his sight and
mobility; but he never stopped being the Patch we knew and loved. This special
Brit will be greatly missed.
Patch -
August 2015
I wanted
to bring you an update about Patch who we adopted a little more than 3 years
ago, just before he turned 8 years old from ABR and Wayne Topa. Wayne is a
breeder in update NY who was shutting down his kennel for personal reasons. His
Brits were entrusted to ABR knowing his pups would receive a good home. My wife
and 15 year-old daughter made the 3 hour drive to come home with a new family
member chosen from Wayne's pack. Well, the adoption was accomplished rather
quickly as one of the Brits came over to my wife, sat down in front of her and
followed her wherever she went during the visit. It seems the Patch had chosen
his new family, we had little to say in his in Patch's decision, he knew who
his new family would be. The attached picture with the blanket is Patch on the
trip home.
As you
would expect, Patch had a few skills that proved very interesting. It is
perfectly normal, at least for the Brits I have owned to procure food left in a
vulnerable location. However, we learned that Patch could actually reach down
into the kitchen sink to abscond with food that was to be our dinner. Of
course, he was assisted by his sister, Java, in dispatching the chicken, bones
and all. (Note: a discussion and a vet visit proved uneventful.) But, without a
doubt, Patch's most surprising feat was one of daring and cunning. A couple of
years back, it was a few days after Halloween. I came down to the kitchen to
have breakfast and what do I find? Mr. Patch is standing in the middle of the
kitchen table "exploring" the remains of the Halloween goodies. Most
interesting was Patch's reaction. He looked at me, jumped down from the table
and went about his business as if nothing had happened — not a word was
spoken. Please understand that Patch receives nothing but the best care
possible. It is just that every now and then he simply surprises us with his
creativity.
Well,
Patch turned 11 years-old and is beginning to slow down a bit. I must tell you
that Patch is the biggest Brittany my wife, me and our vet have ever seen. He
stands at about 22 inches and weighs in at— 62 pounds.Mind you that is a solid
62 pounds. Arthritis is present, moderately, and I think his selective hearing
is beginning to weaken a bit. However, some things never change — he is the
most loving and devoted dog you could ever hope to have, he looks forward to
his 2 1/2 mile walks with "mom" each day that includes a swim in the
local creek, and he is still attached to Joyce with some kind of invisible
velcro about 24 hours a day. We have had 3 Brits, the first two living to the
ripe old ages of 16 and 14 plus a Great Dane who made it to 12 years old. So,
we expect to enjoy Patch for a few more years. He is a wonderful member of the
family.
Many
thanks to ABR for the wonderful work you dedicate to these great dogs.
Best
Regards, Joyce, Brie and Ken Ludwig
Brisco
14 years ago we adopted a wild and crazy Brittany named Brisco from American Brittany Rescue. Like an attention deficit, gifted athlete, this brilliantly funny dog made our lives complete -- he made us laugh, made us run, made us crazy, but he gave us 14 of the happiest years we've known.
Sadly, last week Brisco went to the Rainbow Bridge -- and we are heartbroken. Heartbroken, but filled with love at having had him a part of our lives for so long. We've had several breeds, but the Brittany will forever be our favorite.
Thank you American Brittany Rescue for giving us the love of our lives -- thank you for our Brisco. ~ LaRay and Victor Biziewski
Sarah
We adopted a skinny little orange and white Brittany in June 2002 named Sarah out of VA. She was a little over a year old when we got her and smart as a whip. She was given up because she was gun shy but she sure never lost her hunting instinct. No rabbit, squirrel, bird, snake, or any other creature that moved went unnoticed by her. She also proved to be quite the escape artist leaving our yard on every occasion she could find despite the fence and invisible fence we had to put her nose to the ground and see what the big world had to offer.
We moved in 2005 to a place that had much more acreage and a lot of woods that allowed her to roam as she wanted and the invisible fence contained her for the most part but I mentioned she was smart so she knew when the batteries weren’t working on that collar and took advantage of it. She sent me looking for her more than a few times and when she was able to avoid us finding her she always came back home to sleep in her bed.
Well she is 15 years old now and still with us and although she has slowed way down in the past few years and I’m afraid is not too far off from leaving us but she has been the best dog I could have hoped for. She has had 4 other brothers and sisters living with her this whole time and has seen some pass on and seen new little ones come in and never once was she anything other than a perfect dog letting the puppies climb and bite her ears and never once even growled. All she wants is a good belly rub and a chance to go out and see what is still outside.
Adopting her was the best thing we could have ever done. Even at her at age where she struggles to get up all she wants to do is come get a good belly rub every day when we return from work. The day she decides to go will be extremely sad but she has given us 14 amazing years and will always be loved. Thanks ABR for allowing us to have this beautiful girl and all the pleasure she has given us over the years.
Annie
Hi Everyone,
This is
Annie from Salt Lake City. I'm in Southern CA now. My Mom and
Dad saw me on the American Brittany Rescue website and thought that they
really wanted me to come live with them. My Dad contacted my Foster Dad,
Mike Barlow, the ABR UT Coordinator, and they talked. Mike likes to meet
the Forever Parents before he allows his Brits to leave his care, but because
Diana Dorion, the ABR So. CA Coordinator, vouched for my Mom and Dad after she
visited them, Mike allowed me to come to So. CA. Dad and John Cadia and
Reyna Meenk (two pilots from Pilots and Paws), worked really long and hard to
transport me to So. CA. John flew me, with Mike riding along, from SLC to
Boulder, NV. Reyna was to fly me to Riverside, CA, However, the
winds at altitude were so strong that she said that she'd drive me to
Riverside. Mom and Dad said that they'd drive half way to meet Reyna and
me in Barstow, CA. We met there and Mom took me for a walk and I had some
treats and then we drove home to Huntington Beach, CA. I found a nice
yard and a bed that I loved when I arrived at my Forever Home and best of all,
lots and lots of love from all the family. Mom's and Dad's daughter and
son-in-law live nearby and have a two year old Lab mix and a six year old
Australian Cattle dog that I have a great time playing with. We run
around the yard like puppies. I've even spent the night there. I've
met my vet, Dr. Alison Naito. She's been my parents' vet for 30 years and
all of the staff and Dr. Naito just love me. If I ever have to stay
there, it's just like a second home. I want to thank everyone who helped
me get to my Forever Home. I'm really really happy and have lots and lots
of attention and love.
Love, Annie
Chuck and
I want to add a little to Annie's letter. She's a lover and fits into our
home perfectly. We especially want to thank Mike, Diana, Reyna and John
for making it possible for us to have Annie join our family. Rest assured
that she'll be loved and cherished the rest of her life. Thank you all very
much.
Posey and
Chuck Leech
Talli and Lexi
I feel like Talli and Lexi rescued me more than I rescued them. I
actually saw their pictures on ABR's website before my first brittany, Lucy,
unexpectedly passed away. My husband and I quickly agreed that three dogs
would be too many for us to handle. I had no idea Lucy, at only 7 years
old, would be leaving us so soon. Just a couple short weeks later, Lucy
collapsed in the yard, and even though I tried CPR to revive her, she was
gone. I have never been so heart broken in my life, but as I grieved my
best friend, I remembered those sisters that were in need of a home. I wouldn't
have been ready to search for a new fur friend yet, so I strongly suspected it
was meant to be that I already knew of these girls.
Lexi is the ultimate
snuggle bug and a complete spaz. If there is a lap, she is in it, and she
vibrates with excitement when sitting and waiting for a treat! Talli is
sweet as can be and keeps watch over our family and property and her little
sister. In no time, she wore a path all along the fence in our backyard,
so we call her border patrol! These two have brought so much love and joy
into our family when we needed it most. Thank you ABR for all that you
do, and you rescue more than just the doggies!
- Sara Mercer
Greenville, SC
Ladybug
We adopted 10 year old Ladybug, a tricolored French Brittany, from a foster home in Davis, California last month. She is adorable and very active for her age. We have lost 3 senior dogs in the past year and we and our 5 year old lab, Piper, were sad in our grief and loneliness for our friends who went to the Rainbow Bridge. We decided to adopt a senior Brittany and a senior Golden. We got Ladybug a month ago and 12 year old Goldendoodle, Chelsea, 3 weeks ago. Piper was always a wanna be Alpha, so this might be her chance. But first Ladybug put her in her place. Then Chelsea put her in her place. Then Ladybug fought it out with Chelsea (A lot of growling, snarling and teeth, but no blood, thank God). In the end, the 3 girls worked it out: 32# Ladybug is the Alpha; Chelsea is next in line, and Piper is bottom dog again.
We also have 5 cats (3 of them are seniors). Ladybug is not a cat chaser, but she moves around the house and yard so fast that the cats thought they were being chased. We used baby gates to help the cats have a safe dog free area in the house. We also put a tall cat tree and high boardwalk and platform under the cabana for the cats to have an escape route and safe observation area in the back yard. Chelsea came to us with a cat chasing problem. My senior cats have been through this before and stood their ground. In a record day and half Chelsea learned the lesson. My six year old kitty, Agate, still doesn't trust Chelsea and stays on the safe side of the gates 90% of the time, but she is getting braver.
We are retired and have time to give these senior girls the extra time and attention they want and need. My husband, Rod, spends most of his days in our large fenced yard taking care of the landscaping, garden and Koi ponds. He has the 3 girls as his entourage.
We adopted a ten year old Brittany, Molly, from the rescue in the past. She was a sweet girl who lived to be 14 years old and is with 20+ dogs waiting for us at the Rainbow Bridge.
Thank you for rescuing Brittanys so we could adopt them.
Janet and Rod Camprini
Sacramento, California.
Sadie
Hello Friends!
The last time my
mom updated my story, it was a sad one. I lost both of my sisters a week apart.
My mom and dad worked really hard and found me the perfect new sister! Meet
Bergita! My parents adopted her through ABR. She is a Brittany/Lab mix. My mom
jokingly calls her a Brittador.
It took me a few weeks to start liking her. Now
I love my pesky little sister. She is 15 weeks old now and we love to
wrestle...all the time! My mom says we are crazy! I am teaching Bergita the
ways of the Brittany; we patrol the yard and keep it rabbit and squirrel free!
Someday I will teach her to point to birds, just for fun though. I am gun
shy..hopefully Bergita is not!
Thank you to the volunteers at ABR who took in
my sister, her 6 siblings and her momma. Without them I would not have my new
best friend. Don't worry, my mom will always be my favorite! Love, Sadie and
Bergita from Minnesota
Boo
We were introduced to the possibility of
adopting Boo (now an 8 yr old female) in Nov. 2013 by the match making skills
of Nancy Hensley of ABR. Boo had a delightful childhood but her family
could no longer give her the attention she needed and Nancy arranged with the
family to surrender Boo for adoption. We drove across Washington in a
snowstorm to meet the family who generously gave us all of Boo’s stock of gear
and food and gave up the dog they loved.
Our plan was to double up on the
attention we could provide Boo by having both my Mother and I adopt her.
Mother and I are next door neighbors, each with a fenced in yard. Mother is
home during the day while I work so Boo is rarely alone. Mother
feeds Boo, cares for her every need and Boo lives and sleeps with her. I
am in charge of exercise, vet visits and grooming.
Boo gets to go to the
local dog park (which is well stocked with local ducks and geese), hike on
trails through the woods, explore the beaches, walk the extensive paved trails
we have in our area of the Olympic Peninsula of Washington. She is
a dog with a loving heart, a need to be loved, a little anxious about being
alone, but that has diminished over the last two years as she has learned that
we will be back soon. We also have some wonderful friends who come with
their dogs and stay with Boo if we have to be gone for longer than an hour or
two. Because she is confident and not aggressive, she is able to meet
other dogs on the trails and in the parks with great success. She is
funny and smart. Even though we have had a Brittany before, Boo surprises
us every day with the depth of joy she brings to us and the many friends she
has made. Thank you so much to all of the ABR members who made this
possible.
Cooper
I adopted Cooper in late June
of 2010 after graduating college. He was known as Willie at the time. I cannot
believe it has been 5 and 1/2 years together! What an adventure we have had so
far. Cooper has been quite mischievous and the last year was a rough one. He
has always been a garbage hound and broke into the trash bin at the farm and
made himself quite sick.
This fall, I found a lump on his leg and my vet found
out it was a mast cell tumor. It was removed on October 14. The pathologist
said it was cancerous, but it was not dividing. This was great news! Cooper has
now fully recover and lives the life of a king.
We adopted a cat in spring of
2014, and he is Cooper's best friend. He even sleeps in his kennel with him! We
live next to the Mississippi River now and Cooper thinks this is the greatest
thing EVER! Not only does he get to swim, but he gets to be disgusting and roll
in the sand! I'm so glad my boy beat his cancer. Cooper is my best friend and
snuggle buddy. Thank you for bringing us together!
Dollar formerly Ruth
Thought I’d drop you a line to say hello and share a success
story with you. It’s been two years since I adopted Ruth. Re: Ruth PA 4263.
I’ve included a couple of photos of her and my other Brittany named “Brandy”
hunting grouse and pheasant up in the “Pocono Mountains” of Monroe County.
I thought you would be pleased to see what Brittany’s do
what they like to do best. They love getting out in the fields. She responds very well to my whistle commands.
If you recall, Ruth possessed a PA lifetime license. Since I’m a PA resident,
it was allowed to transfer her lifetime license to my name. The cost was only
one dollar. So I thought it was only appropriate for me to change her name to
“Dollar”
Thanks you ABR! Donald Barna
Callie and Misty
Our two Brittany’s: Callie is on the
left, Misty on the right. Misty was our 8 year old ABR Rescue from
Michigan. When we got her in Aug 2009 we brought her home to our 10
year old Brittany we had since she was a puppy. They got along great, and
the first time my husband went to throw a ball with her, Misty saw that hand go
up she dove to the ground, afraid he was going to hit her. We never
did that again…poor thing.
She had never learned to play with toys and
when she would pick up one, she’d put it down like she didn’t know what to do
with it. She was beyond affectionate, as she would drape herself over
your lap for attention. In July 2014 she got sick with an auto immune
problem, and an x-ray showed she had been shot 3 times with metal bb’s.
We can only imagine just how hard her life was before rescue.
She got
sick again with her immune problem and passed away in our home on Dec 19<sup>th</sup>
2013. Our other Brit Callie, 14 at the time, went right downhill and
passed away 3 weeks later. We were heartbroken to lose both our
pets.
That following August 2015 we rescued Sammie from Ohio. She
was from a family with life changes and they were heartbroken to give her up,
but they couldn’t keep her. She was a very loved dog and fit right into
our home. Since we’ve been Brittany owners since 1999 we just
couldn’t go any longer without one.
Thank you to ABR for giving us two
very loving wonderful rescue girls. We donate every year, but this
one I wanted to put in both Misty and Callie’s memories.
Thanks for all you do for these wonderful
dogs
Mary LaClair
Sadie
Hello friends!
It has been quite a year for me. Earlier this year I lost both of my furry
sisters. My Mom and Dad had to make the difficult choice to help them to the
Rainbow Bridge. I was devastated to say the least. My parents have been helping
me with my grief by bringing a lot of my furry friends over to play with me, but
they know I need a brother or sister of my own to keep me company. They have
been watching the ABR website and are going to find the perfect companion for
me!
In the mean time, I am enjoying the beach, the fall leaves and being with
my family. I have been with my furever family for 5 years now and family loves
me more than anything in the world! I continue to keep my backyard free of
rabbits and squirrels and often bring them to my Mom as an offering of love! I
know she loves it because she squeals and jumps up and down. That definitely
means she loves my presents! I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season and
I look forward to updating you when my new fur brother or sister arrives! Love,
Sadie from Minnesota
Abbie
It's with a broken heart and many, many shed tears that we
write to tell
you we lost Abbie on October 9th, 2015.
She started having symptoms in
August and her Vet told us she suspected a brain tumor. Unable to
believe that in spite of scans, tests etc., we explored the
possibilities of a stroke and even West Nile Virus. In spite of several
medications, she became progressively worse and on October 8th, after I
had a conference with our Vet, she told me it was time for Abbie's sake
to let her go. We did so on October 9th.
She was our third Brit and we
admit she touched our hearts more than the others. She overcame so much
fear from her previous life and she gave so much. The love poured out
of her when she looked at you. Letting her go was one of the hardest
things that we ever had to do but we couldn't let her continue to go on
the way that she was.
We will, in the future, we're sure, have another
Brit but there will never be another Abbie.
Rosemary and Chuck Leech
Victor
Victor became part of our family in March 2006, adopting him from a
local shelter. He was a year old and, except for housebreaking, had no manners
whatsoever. Since then we have achieved the following titles: AKC Master
Agility Champion [MACH], Master Agility FAST [MXF], Companion Dog [CD],
Beginner Novice [BN], Rally Excellent [RE], Canine Good Citizen Advanced
[CGCA], an Expert Level Trick Dog title from 'Do More With Your Dog' [ETD] and
in October 2015 began his Barn Hunt career. Victor went into the Barn Hunt ring
three times earning three first placements, with two High Scoring Team awards
and the Barn Hunt Novice title [RATN]! [picture attached]. Not bad for a
10-year old!
In addition, Victor has performed trick dog demonstrations at a dog show and a
humane society open house. For several years he was a therapy dog also.
Victor came to us with a number of health issues and a bad case of fear of loud
noises. Fortunately, with patience and positive training techniques he has
become quite the ambassador for the Brittany breed! He is our boy and we have
been blessed to have him in our lives.
Sharon & Larry Miller
Sophie
We presented ABR with the
challenge of finding the perfect companion for our 3 year old Mini Australian
Shepherd, Turbo. The criteria we set was specific. Team ABR, specifically Sarah
Parks and her amazing co-volunteers, took our requirements to heart and located
the perfect little girl, 6 year old Sophie, in Utah.
When Sophie arrived it was
love at first sight for all of us. These two are inseparable...we're talking
little, canine soul mates here. Sophie has been with us for a few months now
and we can hardly remember our home without her. She is such an adaptable girl,
loving and eager to please. Sophie has provided Turbo with a perfectly suited
playmate, walking buddy and companion.
Thank you ABR for the work that you all
do to support and serve this amazing breed. We all love our sweet girl and are
so grateful to have her here.
Lynda and Dennis Fabrizio
Selvie
First time tent-camping with our
three-year-old Brittany, adopted through the Magnolia Rescue. The park required
that dogs remain on a leash at all times (which is fine as we have yet to master
the command "Come"). Sylvie had her first experience hiking in the dunes and
swimming in the clear and warm water of Lake Michigan! The leash allowed her to
swim out to me, then back to shore at will where she pointed huge yellow
butterflies for minutes on end (to the amazement of folks at the beach!)
As it
was a warm weekend, she proceeded to dig a little nest for herself to lay in the
cool sand under our picnic table at the campsite, and appreciated her cozy crate
in our tent overnight. Being "leashed" to her for 48 hours deepened our bond
with Sylvie, and gave us time to see patterns and preferences that would
otherwise not have been noticed.
Thank you Terry Mixdorf, and Lori Weaver, for
your loving work with Sylvie, and all Brittanys and other four-legged
creatures!
Lucky Luke
Luke and I got together Christmas Eve almost two years ago. He came home
New Years Eve, so he's always been my Happy New Dog. Happy is the key word. Now,
Luke came to me through the Modesto pound where his aptitude for escape earned
him his name, Cool Hand Luke. Now that he and I are together I make that more to
be Lucky Luke*. We were headliners briefly on the success story page.
But on to summer in the Sierras. We have a new tradition and destination,
Yosemite, more particularly the Dimond O campground just outside the park on the
Hetch Hetchy side. It has been dry here the last couple years and the Middle
Fork of the Tuolumne has been pretty low. Well, now that Luke has memorized all
the good trails around and near the campground he has a perfect answer to a four
hour drive from the Bay Area. He leads me directly to the creek for a refreshing
swim. Last year he was such an avid fisherman he got hypothermia. This year his
efforts were crowned with success. Now I suspect the trout he caught was pretty
slow, not to say dead, but... Anyway he was so proud of himself. He pranced
ashore holding it high. Then he dropped it on the ground and prepared to roll on
it. That was not going to happen! We have a small mountain tent. When I told him
he instantly changed plan and swallowed it down in one fell slurp.
The delightful thing is how happy he is to be in the mountains. When the
stars begin to fade and the sky begins to gray I get the puppy nose in the
sleeping bag. At first I thought he was cold he was trembling so much. It wasn't
even chilly. He was just excited. I try to tell him that outside it will be cold
and we should wait for sunrise. However Luke has a different plan for the day.
If I don't listen to him he says, "Well, I've tried the genteel approach..." and
starts batting me with his paws. Pretty quick he's testing my martial skills
blocking and diverting his old one-two. It's all in fun and he knows I'll give
it up and see it his way sooner or later.
There has only been one exception to the morning routine. This year a momma
bear and her two cubs were hanging around Camp Mather, a mile or so up the road.
Well sometime about O-dark-hundred Luke got busy waking me up. He was trying to
tell me there was something important we just had to go outside and check.
Right. I told him to roll over. It wasn't happening. Well, being the good dog he
is, he must have stayed up the rest of the night on guard. I actually had to
wake him up about 7.
Luke is an awesome traveler. Of course we start at dawn for the cooler
temperatures and I give him pit stops. We go the back roads which is happier for
all of us. Who knew there was still an S&W Green stamp sign at the Valley
Home store?
Cheers, Charles
Ruby aka Cricket
In February 2002 my father Greg was in congestive heart failure, he survived. Somewhere between the doctor visits, procedures, medications and scares he lost his spunk. In 2006 we said good bye to our trusty little Brittany spaniel Brittany, she was 14 and the house wasn't the same without her. It took along time for my dad to get over her loss and he knew that when he was ready he needed another Brittany.
One day out of the blue in the summer of 2011 he called me up and said "I want a dog, I want a girl Brittany, a liver and white Brittany." Ok I said and off to the internet I went. Rescue was the only option I considered. Luckily the American Brittany rescue was the first thing that popped up in my search and they found my dad the perfect Brittany named Cricket.
My dad and I drove down to Cedar Rapids to get Cricket. We had decided to change her name to Ruby. We met in a parking lot and I'll never forget the moment we met her. Ruby let my dad put his leash on her, she jumped out of the car, licked him, and jumped into my car, she sat down on the front seat and looked at us like "let's go home." In that moment she claimed us and we claimed her.
Ruby and my dad go every where together. They go down to the summer house, rides in the car, to the dog park, and walks on the trail so she can play in the creek. He packs her a sandwich and gives her beef sticks so she won't run away from him. Ruby is never far from his side.
My dad has trained Ruby to wait for the mailman, he will say "Ruby mails coming." She runs out to the front room, sits in her chair nose to the window waiting for the mailman to arrive. He drops a treat in the slot and it gives her something to bark at beside the squirrel that's been taunting her for months.
Ruby isn't the one who got rescued that day, it was my Dad. Ruby rescued my dad. She brought him back to us, his spunk and zest for life had returned. He is the healthiest he had been in over 10 years and it is all because of a Brittany.
Ruby is a dog with a bed side manner, it's like she knows, she will nurse you back to health by never leaving your side. She has the most soulful eyes that when you look into them, you know everything is going to be all right. Ruby is more than a rescue dog, she is a companion, she is family, and mostly she is the medicine that my dad needed.
This little spunky rambunctious Brittany rescued my dad and for that words cannot express how much your organization means to us.
AmandaJean Beaulieu
Maddison and Dakota
Brittanys are like potato chips, you can’t have just one.
Maddison was our first ABR almost 7 years ago. She was the companion to Dakota,
whom we got 2 years prior from a breeder (we didn’t know then!). When Dakota
passed over the rainbow bridge due to stomach cancer, it took a long time
before we considered another buddy. A call to Michelle started the paperwork,
and shortly after we were introduced to another Dakota (honest!). They shared
more than just a name. Both afraid of thunderstorms and love to chase deer.
Our newest Dakota quickly made himself part of the family, and he and Maddie
have quickly bonded.
As you can see, whether it’s guarding the house from my office window, to
cruising in the boat or jeep, both ABR are living the life!
So now we have 2 ABR buddies.
So thank you ABR, and Michelle. And yes, we are trying to hold back on another potato
chip!
Chris and Beverlee Duffy
Max

It is with a
heavy heart that I'm writing to tell you of the passing of our much beloved
Brittany, Max. We adopted Max in December of 2003 when he was 11 months old.
Max brought fun and excitement to our lives from the moment he came into them.
He was always happy and easygoing and even when he would run off after rabbits
that would wander into our yard (before we got a big enough fence up), he never
went far, thank goodness.
In 2007 Max began having seizures. We were able to
control his condition for the most part with a good diet. In 2014 Max got
blastomycosis in his foot and had to have one of his toes amputated, but he
still didn't let it get him down. Then last summer the seizures got worse. For
the last year we've experimented with various medications and have taken him to
several vets to try and find "the cure" that would get his seizures
under control. It finally became too much for him and his poor body.
He enriched our lives, warmed our hearts and made us laugh for over 11 years.
We were truly blessed to have had him in our lives. He will be greatly missed
Maggie
10-year-old Maggie came to our home from ABR last December
as the dog with three names. Maggie aka Mandy aka Birdie is now happily
answering to the jingle of her harness as we prepare for a walk.
We shake our
heads in disbelief that she could really be 10 because her energy level is off
the charts. She likes to wear us out as you can tell by the happy smile
on her face and the relaxed posture of my husband in this photo from about 5
miles into a hike on a Gunpowder Falls trail in suburban Baltimore, MD.
Todd
When my
husband and I got Todd from his foster home he was one, maybe two years old. We
were told that he had been dropped off outside an animal shelter, half starved
and covered with fleas and ticks. American Brittany Rescue got him, cleaned him
up, took him to the vet for checkup, vaccinations, and neutering and turned him
over to his foster home. We saw his picture and write up on the American
Brittany Rescue website but we actually went to get a little black and white
French Brittany. Once we got there, Todd just seemed to be a much better match
for us.
When we got him home, we found out
he had probably never been in a house before as he went over the furniture not
around it. He was afraid of loud noises like thunder, gunshots, firecrackers,
etc., so it is assumed he was dropped off by a disgruntled hunter who had no
use for a gun shy bird dog. Todd had
everything to learn, and in most things, he was a quick learner. I went with
him for two six week sessions of obedience school and he got "Most Improved."
He had to improve, he couldn't have gotten much worse. He learned all the
basics rather quickly and he always comes when I call with one exception. If he
is chasing a squirrel, rabbit, or other critter, forget it. He's focused on one
thing, and that is whatever he's chasing.
We have a large fenced in back yard and that is his domain during the
day, in the house at night. I walk him
through the neighborhood every day and he is known by all the kids and gets to
meet a lot of the other neighborhood dogs. The kids run up and hug him and he never jumps
on them or gets excited, he just stands there and tolerates the hugs and then
walks on.
About six years ago he was bitten on
the nose and jaw by a Copperhead in our backyard and his poor head was swollen
something terrible. The vet gave him a
shot and antibiotics and the next day he was as good as new but with a new
respect for snakes. He got where he would go around the yard and hunt for them
through the day. Copperheads have great camouflage in dry leaves and pine straw
and at times are almost impossible to spot, but Todd didn't need to see them,
he would sniff them out. When he found one he would bark and jump back over and
over. We got where we could tell his "snake" bark. One summer we killed 14 Copperheads and
all, except for a couple, were
found by Todd. We were averaging 12 Copperheads killed a year for several
years. He hasn't found as many this
summer and we don't know if he has thinned them out or if they run in cycles,
but snakes are not safe in the back yard with Todd. One was escaping down a hole and Todd got him
by the tail, pulled him out, and
immediately slung him across the yard where my husband chopped off his head
with our "snake" shovel. We have neighbors who say "we don't
have snakes". They have snakes,
they just don't know it. We don't have snakes because we have Todd.
Tinkerbell
This
is Tinkerbell. We adopted her thru ABR 6 years ago and she finally took a good
photo!
She came from Ohio and now lives in Maryland (DC suburbs). She is very
loving and petite and loves long hikes at her weekend house in the mountains.
But when she is in the city she is actually very lazy- so un-Brittany like!
Katie Beach
Jill
"my name is Jill and I'm the cute
blonde(roan) in back, smiling with my pack. when I was seven my owner died and
his wife moved to smaller quarters in Bend , Oregon. My littermate Abby and I
felt lost, gaining 10 pounds. We went to a new home , but it failed. Then Tom
and Jane in Colorado found us, aged 9, and flew us in to a forever home.
nicknamed the Golden girls, we lost our weight and became sporting dogs again!
when Abby died a year later I was heartbroken but my new family consoled me.
Tom and Jane added another young rescue to even the numbers. I am now a 15 1/2,
the matriarch of the group. what a great place to grow old!!" <o:p />
Jill
died at 15 yrs,9 months, the best and loved of the rescues we've had. She
smiled till the end<o:p />
Rylee
Hi, my name
is Rylee but some of you may know me as Peaches. My foster dad Mike
Barlow rescued me from a shelter in Utah almost three years ago and I made my
way to my forever home with Mike and Cathy in sunny California.
I made
the trip through the winter snowstorms just after Christmas and when I arrived,
there were presents for me under the tree! I knew this was the
place for me but I had no idea how much fun California is!
Since then, we
go to the beach about once a month and take long walks on the beach – well,
they walk – I run and swim! I was pretty unsure about water when I first
arrived but now it is so much fun to jump in the waves or launch into the
swimming pool.
This summer, Mike took me on my first backpacking
trip. I wasn’t so sure what was happening when he strapped the pack on me
and didn’t understand why my food was in there but when we got started on the
trail, it all came to me! Miles upon miles of forest and trails to run
chasing squirrels and streams and lakes to swim in! After a 4 mile hike
into camp, we settled in alongside a lake where Mike took my backpack
off. While Mike took a nap, I spent the next hour swimming in the lake –
it was so much fun! Check me out in this picture – is this not the best
place for a Brittany? The Beach Boys said it best – “I wish they all
could be California girls!” Thank you ABR! I have a smile on my
face every day now.
Georgia
Georgia was adopted in April 2013 and was very skittish. 2 years later and you'd never believe it if you met her now! She's quite the card and loves to roll around on the floor when our 16 year old son, Jonathan, enters the room as she adores him.
We think her breed should be called the "Attention Hound" since she demands to petted always and often. She's quirky in that she's become a hoarder and stashes all her toys in the corner along with several socks that she seems to always find.
She also loves her step-brother cocker spaniel, Brutus, and always gives him at least one cleaning by licking a day. See picture attached of the both of them in the car.
Thanks for all your organization does as she's quite dear to us and we enjoy having her so much!
The Klaus Family
Roxie
I just wanted to tell you about Roxie. We
rescued her from ABR on September 1, 2011. We got her from the OKC area. She
was 2 1/2 years old. We are full-time motorcycle missionaries and we got her
for ministry.
I mean, who can resist wanting to pet a dog and we are asked
constantly if she can be petted! She is a great conversation starter. We had
her about 4-5 months when we noticed she followed my wife around all the time.
Sometimes nudging her or jumping on her when she wouldn't with anyone else. In
February 2012 we met a couple in Daytona, FL that had a Brittany diabetic alert
service dog. That's when it hit us, maybe Roxie is doing this because my wife
is a diabetic. From that time on when Roxie would nudge, jump, or whatever to
her, she would test her blood and sure enough it was too low. She is now a
certified service dog and goes with us almost all of the time. She basically
works the most while we sleep and she jumps up and down off the bed
periodically all night checking. She has saved my wife's life 6 different times
in the last 3 1/2 years. During the day when she jumps on her, she gently blows
in her face and if she is ok, Roxie jumps down and goes on her way. If not, she
just stands there on her back feet until she knows action is going to be taken.
She is such a blessing to us and we are so glad we found her on the ABR website!!!
Thank you ABR, David and Brenda Pantleo Www.DavidPantleo.com
Max
Max
here. I know what you’re thinking: “What a handsome guy!” Well I’m not just handsome, I’m lucky. I lived in Iowa for 8 and a half years, but
when my first family needed to move and couldn’t take me with them, Terry
Mixdorf at ABR found me a forever home in Kansas. I’m 10 and a half now and I love everything
about my new home—my mom, my dad, my 3 cats, and my new BBF, Gus.
Gus is a
giant schnauzer. He’s only 2 years old,
but he weighs 85 lbs! We live just
outside of the city limits, and Gus and I have nothing but fun in our 2-acre
fenced-in yard. We’re loving, smart, and
immensely talented, especially in the area of landscape redesign. Back in the
fall of 2014, we pulled off one major and amazing accomplishment (and the one
we think Mom & Dad will remember f-o-r-e-v-e-r). You’re really going to be
impressed! Get ready . . . Here it
is: One day in November we discovered
that the mole tunnels meandering through our backyard had become rather
lengthy, and with new ones appearing every few days, the network had become
massive. We’d been digging around on
them for some time, but Mom & Dad always escorted us back in the house
before we could finish our project. But
all that changed when the opportunity of a lifetime came along—Mom & Dad
left us alone in the backyard for an entire afternoon! That was all we needed to show them how
helpful we could be. We put our digging
skills to work and by the time they returned we had trenched the entire network of tunnels covering nearly an acre of
our yard! When they came home and began
looking for us, we were proudly sitting there, exhausted, but waiting to show
them both our massive “re-landscaping” project and our trophy—one of the moles
(and we take no prisoners). Gosh, they
were just speechless. Too proud to
speak, we suspect, because it ultimately took a pickup-size load of soil to
fill in the trenches. Yeah. Amazing.
As great as
digging is, and as accomplished as we are in the art, our absolute favorite
thing to do is ride in the car. Here are
the selfies we took to commemorate our one-millionth ride in the Rav4. Kansas!
Where the digging is great, and the rides are even better.
Annie

I want to share the success story of Annie who adopted us in 2005. With great sadness we had to let Annie go last Tuesday. She was my second Brittany to make it to 15 1/2 years. Annie had many "quirks" to work through but she was the sweetest girl.
Our Emma is deeply mourning her loss which is quite something to witness. Here is a picture of Annie with 15 1/2 month old Ember Mae who loved this dog so much. I feel another Brittany is in my future......
RIP Annie Fannie, Chunk, Big Mama and the list goes on and on....
Sonny

It
is with heavy heart, that I must tell you that our Sonny dog, adopted October
2009 has been diagnosed with a large tumor on his heart and will only be with
us for a few more months most likely. His age was unknown when we adopted him,
they said anywhere between 6-12 yrs. His health was in pretty bad shape
when he was found. He has been a happy part of our family for over 5
years now! He loves our kids, our cats, and our newer two-year-old
Brittany, Colt. We just wanted to thank you for your rescue work and
keeping these fabulous dogs in good, loving homes!<p>
We
would also like to look for another Brittany after Sonny is gone. Our
2-yr-old Britt will be very lonely. We would love to find another young
1-3 yr old to bring into our family and become Colt’s new brother or sister.
If you have any available in the next couple months were are interested!
Here
is Sonny, with his smile!
and here is his brother Colt.
Thank
you!
Keith and Ellen Mangine
Sasha
Hi to
everyone at the ABR. It has been one month since we welcomed Sasha into our
home. When Rick showed me her picture on Facebook something told me we needed
to call on her. We have a 12yo Britt who has been blind for three years due to
SARD. We have been talking about getting a 5 or 6 year old Britt to help her
have more of a better quality of life. When Rick showed me Sasha on Facebook
something told me to call about her.
When we met
her at Meghan's home Ruby walked over to Sasha and touched her. She was OK with
Sasha and we knew she was meant for us to bring into our home. At first she ran
around checking everything out. She and Ruby are getting along great. Sometimes
Sasha gets Ruby to come in from outside. Ruby hears Sasha running around and
wants to know what she is doing. Sasha has become Rick's Britt and she follows
him everywhere.
We are so
glad we found Sasha and glad the ABR approved us. Sasha is making our home and
Ruby's life alive again. We wanted to say a huge THANK YOU for giving us the
opportunity to have Sasha in our life. Thank you!" Ruby, Sasha, Ruth and Rick
Mowgli formerly Zach
For two months now we have had a new fur baby in our house. Mowgli
(formerly Zach) has truly come out of his shell. He has decided that this is
home and he is going to invite everyone that walks by to come over and play. He
has gotten along wonderfully with his new aunt Lola and I think they've become
instant best friends.
Now that the weather has warmed up a bit, he has decided that boat rides
aren't too scary. They are just the start to his favorite thing, running around
chasing birds and fish around small islands.
Mowgli also decided that no lap is too small for him to cuddle up into. He
greets me every morning with a big hug, toothy grin, and nubby wag.
That's all for now, time for a walk!
p.s. thanks to Monica and everyone at ABR for not only caring for this
little gem, but for all they do for every other fur child.
Charley

Hello, we wanted to share an update on Charley (formerly Crosby). We
brought him home in November, our initial concerns about bonding with our 8
years Brittany, Clementine were quickly vanished when the two met!
Although,
Charley towers over Clementine he is gentle and completely submissive to the
little gal. They enjoy walks, playing ball and wrestling each other.
Charley
loves snuggling with the family on sofa and enjoys sniffing out the falling
popcorn. Charley came to us from Georgia and has discovered his fondness for
snow and is completely unaffected by the cold weather. He has completely
captured our hearts and completed our family
Granville
Hi,
I just wanted to give an update on Granville. I
adopted him from you in Feb. 2006 - his name was Sonny. Granville has
been struggling through several medical issues since November 2014.
Yesterday he told me it was time to leave for his next adventure. He will
be greatly missed! Granville was the sweetest boy - he played hard and
loved to curl up next to me on the couch. He was my first Brittany and
first bird dog - he has changed my life forever. I have an English Setter
as well and from here on out I will always have one of each. He was the
even keel to my crazy setters - keeping the balance in life. I will adopt
another Brittany from you in the future - just not ready yet. I
appreciate what ABR does for all these wonderful dogs.
Thank You,
Kimberly
Buck
Six years ago today we adopted our Buck who was almost two at the time. He has been a wonderful member of our family. We could not have anticipated what a well behaved and loving friend Buck would be. Recently, a wildlife artist painted the attached portrait which was on display at the Southeast Wildlife Exposition in Charleston, so now the world can see what a rockstar Buck is. With gratitude to ABR, Gary and Jane Bullard
Chloe Rose

Hi ABR and Happy 2015.
It’s another year and Chloe Rose and I are as close as ever.
She goes with me to work almost daily and when she doesn’t she stays home
with mom. She is slowing down a bit now and has trouble hearing. But,
what do you expect at 11!! Her appetite is still good and she still loves
to travel. Hope all is well with ABR in 2015.
Greg
Penny and Nickle
I just wanted to pass along a few photos of my two Brittany's. Penny and Nickel.
Penny was an ABR assisted adoption back in 2000. I got her when she was
approximately 1-2 years old. It was unknown as her history was sketchy, and she
had passed through a few hands before she came home with me. I bought Nickel a
year later as a hunting companion and companion for Penny.
These are the most amazing animals and they have enhanced our lives and we
cherish every day we have with them, as we know they will not be here forever
except in our hearts.
Thanks for the opportunity to share this,
Buddy Garrett
ABR Volunteer Florida
Sarah Belle
Sarah
Belle Larsen came into our home on February 1st 2014. We had
recently lost our Brittany and wanted a companion for our other dog, also a
Brittany. I was very hesitant to adopt Sarah, a nine year old “pup” but
when I heard that her owner had passed and none of the family wanted her, I just
had to meet her!
Sarah
Belle is a very energetic older dog who has taken over as Queen of the
Household! Most importantly, she gets along famously with Sassy Sue and they
are inseparable! We are more than thrilled to have been in touch with American
Brittany Rescue and have Sarah Belle in our lives!
Abbie
Hi Everyone,
This is Abbie checking
in again. I've posted my story before when I was
adopted and on my first anniversary, but I like to keep you informed of how
happy I am.
Today, December 4th,
2014, is the second anniversary of my Mom, Dad and
me becoming a family.
Things were great until
Mom decided to put a Christmas tree in my
favorite corner. Fortunately, after Dad saw how unsettled I was, he made some
adjustments and all is right again.
When I was adopted by my
Mom and Dad, it was apparent that I was, as my
Foster Dad, Dave Smith, explained, "a shy and sweet Brit". When
my folks would inadvertently move their feet near me, I would quickly move away
and I wouldn't let Dad pet my face. But, gradually my fears of new people
were overcome and now whenever Dad sits on the couch, I quickly come to sit by
him and let him stroke my muzzle
and head. Oh, how great it is to know that I'm loved!!!
My Forever Home has been
great. Dad and I take a long walk most every
morning and I see friends I've made along the way. Pretty soon, the
family from the East, Midwest and South will be here for the holidays and I
really like that. I couldn't have picked a better Forever Home so I thank the
American Brittany Rescue (ABR),
Animal Rescue Flights (ARF) and my Foster Dad for working so hard to get
me here. Mom and Dad send their thanks also. I'm truly a member of the
family and, if I do say so myself, a very important member.
Mom, Dad and I send our
very best wishes for a Merry Christmas and all the best in 2015.
Rosemary and Chuck Leech
Zooey

I have adopted Brittany No
5!!! Her name is Zooey (8). She is in the middle in this picture.
Maya (10) is on the left and Kodi (6) is on the right.
Zooey is a very
sweet little girl that was purchased from Craig's list and then given to ABR. She has fit
right in with the Brittany crew.
She had to have surgery to remove several growths one of which was
cancerous. The vet thinks
they got it all. She will just need to be checked periodically for the
next year.
Zooey will start training
in January so she can become a therapy dog like her brother and sister. The
amazing thing is that
she heels so well wearing a martingale collar. She is still
learning stay, wait and down. I have been so
lucky and blessed with the Brittanys in my life
Connery
Hey
ABR friends,
Our awesome Brittany adoptee Connery (formerly Limerick) has been asking me
to let you all know how happy he is in his new forever home.
Connery is everything we were told a Brittany would be: loving, cuddly,
smart, affectionate, curious, and very, very high energy! He's a big dopey dog
who is guaranteed to get into everything he could possibly get into, then gives
you this big dopey grin and you immediately forget why you were mad at
him.
When we first got him, he showed some mild fear aggression, likely due to
his earlier home. But we worked with a trainer and he has completely worked out
of it - now he seeks out other dogs for play instead of avoiding them! We were
also a bit surprised to discover that he has a severe wheat allergy; he cannot
tolerate even the slightest crumb or even a taste of soy sauce without breaking
out into belly sores. But, with a bit of adjustment here and there, and a bit of
strict diet awareness to any friends / family who come to visit, he has been
doing great. He's loving his home-cooked "puppy stew" that I make for him every
2 weeks (and freeze), full of lots of yummy veggies and protein topped olive
oil.
His favorite days are spent at Ft. Funston where he can run off leash to
his heart's delight, chasing birds, squirrels, or whatever else he happens to
find. Connery has learned to respond to our voice commands almost 100% of the
time, and is just starting to get the hang of hand signals. He also loves
chasing after a chucked tennis ball, and has begun to grasp the concept of
bringing the ball back so that I'll throw it again. Sometimes he can be a bit
slow to get these things, but eventually he comes around!
Connery is by far one of the most emotionally sensitive dogs I have ever
met. If I am sad or sick, he will not leave my side and pushes his entire head
into my hand for cuddles and pets. He is also the biggest goofball I have ever
encountered! Whether directly asking me to play fetch with him by bringing his
favorite fetch squirrel to me and dropping it at my feet, flopping around on his
back for belly rubs, or play-attacking our other dog on the stairs, he gets a
laugh out of me many times every day. Connery has also recently been
successfully introduced to horses and loves being at the horse barn. He romps
around on long hikes, loves camping with us, and is a great Sunday brunch
partner.
I cannot believe I lived so long of my life without this fantastic,
naughty, stinky, goofy, lovable dog. Big thanks for helping me find my favorite
doofus, our lives would not work without him!!
Sadie

Hello my friends!
Sadie from Minnesota here...it has been a while since I have written. I have had a very busy 2014! We moved into a new house in March. I really love my new house because I have a huge backyard that is fenced, so I get to run as much as I want to! What I love most is that I can hunt rabbits and squirrels all the time! My Mom does not really appreciate me hunting them, but I sure do!
My Mom and Dad adopted another new sister for me, she is a 13 year old Westie. She is ok but I would rather hunt in the backyard than play with her. I have been in my forever home for almost 4 years now. My Mom keeps saying that she can't believe how fast time flies; I think it flies as fast as me when I am on the trail of that wascally wabbit! I hope you all enjoy the rest of your year! Love, Sadie Bear
Our Year with Dublin and ABR!!!

Hello ABR!
This saturday marks the day we call Dublin’s
“birthdoption day”. When we adopted him from ABR last October 25, we
didn’t know his birthday! So we decided that since then his birthday and
his adoption day will be the same! We have been so blessed to come into the
ABR family.
We have had the opportunity to foster two wonderful young
dogs and look forward to fostering more and more than likely adopting our next
in the near future. We’ve learned so much about not only Dublin but also
about ourselves along the journey the past year. Including he will voice
his opinions when our schedules change and that if there’s a bird to hunt down
in the yard, he will absolutely go for it! He’s caught 2 birds so far!
It’s really just been an amazing year volunteering with the rescue, and having
Dublin in our lives!! Thanks so much for all that you do and we look forward to
continuing working with the rescue!! <o:p> </o:p>
Thanks!
Meghan, Paul, and Dublin Dog!<o:p />
Luke
The good news - Luke has landed. I'm sure that if a squirrel passed by on
the telephone line he would follow it forever. Otherwise, he likes lying on
the front lawn in the shade of the plum tree until something more
interesting, like a guided walk, comes up on the agenda. In every way he has
become willing to accede to any reasonable request. Granted, never give an
order unless you believe it will be followed.
Therefore, keep it
reasonable. He's a hunter. He loves stalking the local squirrels and is
overjoyed when he can chase a turkey or a duck. Good thing I like sharing
that with him. As for actually hunting with him, we would probably both
embarrass ourselves. He chases and doesn't want to give if he catches. I
told you about the stinky dead crow which was still intact enough to squeak
when mouthed? Natural squeaky toy...
I'm a lousy shot. Told you about the
hunting day of my youth when the people working the old Brittany got 7
pheasant... and the golden chasing 'em down the ditches caught and brought
back 5? If I take him hunting, it will be where I think an audience
unlikely.
btw - Whatever has been achieved this year has mostly been
through love and affection. I may have tapped him a couple times, but never
actually swatted, much less hit, him. Treats only work around home. When
he's "on duty" he isn't interested. He has frequently hit the end of the
leash, but we both agree that just is what it is. He now understands "whoa"
is a warning that he's running out of slack in his
expando-leash.
We've had a couple short Sierra excursions. He has
excellent camp manners and is beside himself with excitement being in the
country. He tried trout fishing but the little guys were too quick for him.
Whatever; he loves splashing around in the Tuolumne*.
Bad news is
limited and neither unusual or significant. Poor guy probably got a foxtail
or something like which dug in under his collar and abscessed. Ugly and
worrisome for his people but it never slowed him down. He loves the peanut
butter in which I bury his antibiotics. Associated bad news is that until
that is healed up we can't wander inour wilder trajectories.
Around
home he has become something of a drama queen, but you could consider that a
floor show. He sings for his supper. Not really, just for treats and
dessert. The vet likes his weight so we must not be overdoing it (And my doc
likes mine, down 12# so far this year. Need a personal trainer? I recommend
a Brittany...)
Cheers, Charles & Luke
Abby and Luc

Both of my furry children are ABR rescues! Abby on the left is about 5 yrs old now and loves her nightly walks around town. Luc is about 8 yrs old and loves looking out the window. They have become best friends and don't like to be away from each other. They are extremely spoiled and have claimed our couch as their own. We love ABR and so thankful they found our Britts for us! Keep up the fabulous work you do !
Maya and Kodi
Maya (10) on
left, Kodi (6) on right
This picture
was taken a couple years ago.
I sort of
inherited my first Britt, Allie. She was
the cutest little chubby puppy. When she tried to point, she would fall
over. She taught me how stubborn and sweet
a Britt can be. She became a Happy Tails
Therapy Dog at age 11. She was an Alpha
dog and tested me every day to make sure that I really wanted to be in charge
and lived to be 14 yrs old. Britt #2 was Sammy (aka Peyton) adopted through ABR
and the Archers. He was around 5 yrs old. He had been named Peyton because he
was so sweet. He was a “born free” Britt…he could not be trusted around an open
door or gate. He became a therapy dog at
age 7. He was born to this…..he was the
best with special ed kids and the elderly.
Around then I adopted Britt #3, Maya through ABR and Evelyn Wheeler. She
was only 1 ½ yrs old and was the calmest and most cuddly Britt I had ever
seen. She was certified as a Happy Tails
therapy dog at age 2. She loves to lay with patients in their beds and play
with the special ed kids. Maya is also
certified under Therapy Dogs Inc. so she can be a Reading Paws dog. Children
come to the library to read to her. She
loves it since she can be petted and talked to for an hour. Maya is also certified as an
AKC therapy dog. Sadly, Sammy
passed away. Maya was so lonely that I
adopted Britt #4, Kodi (aka Archie) through ABR and Gloria Gaffke. He was barely 1 yrs old. He is a typical energetic, nosey and loving
Britt. He has completed Basic and
Intermediate obedience and passed his Canine Good Citizen test. He is now Happy Tails therapy
dog and is also AKC certified therapy dog. He also belongs to TD Inc
and does Reading Paws. Amazingly he is the best therapy dog of
the four.
I cannot begin
to express my deep appreciation for the foster parents of my dogs. Gloria even drove Kodi from Iowa to
Atlanta. These wonderful dogs have
enriched my life in so many ways. They
have given so much love to everyone they visit….a smile on a sick child or a
nursing home resident is a great reward.
They have made me laugh so many times and no one can be lonely with a
Britt on your lap or nose bumping your hand.
Eleanor Hager
Tango aka Aspen
In March of 2011, I found pics of a cute little britt boy, in a foster home
in TX. We live in central Wisconsin. We fell in love with his pretty little
face and all of the stars aligned. A friend and fellow Britt lover, Lisa Rice,
from Amarillo, TX was going to be making a drive to WI. I asked if she would
mind a rider and Aspen (now Tango), hitched a ride. The rest of the family,
Annie and Rocket, were not all that fond of Tango when he came home but that
soon changed and he made everyone he met, fall in love.
One thing we found out
is that they do, in fact, make everything bigger in TX. Tango is a petite 77
lbs. and is the sweetest lap dog you will ever meet. He is also one of the best
hunting dogs we have ever had and a great big brother to Lola. They and Rocket,
get along so well, it is just great. All of them sleep in the king size bed
with us, altho we are thinking of upgrading Tango to his own twin size trundle
bed. Thanks to all, especially Lisa, for bringing Tango home, where he
belongs.
Jackie and Clark Albers
Cinnamon
My dog Cinnamon is definitely a big ABR success story.
She came to me almost 8 yrs ago thru ABR volunteer Shelli Ray. I can only say that I am very fortunate
Cinnamon knew we were a match and picked me to be her forever home. For I could
not have predicted the joy she would bring and all the fun times we would have
together.
At the time I had a young brittany (Winchester) at home
who had been sad for quite some time over the loss of his older friend. He loved to take care of others and was missing
one that had been in his care. Also,
while we ran every day and practiced agility Winchester- being 2 was still in
need of a playmate. My husband was away
a lot on business and left me to take care of the properties and critters which
left little extra time. We had visited some other brittanys and were pondering over
them when it was suggested we meet Cinnamon. We went to Cinnamon’s foster home
to see how everyone got along. The dogs got along well and Cinnamon liked me
right away. Shelli said she had not seen Cinnamon warm up to someone so
quickly. I figured it had something to
do with the treats in my pocket but she said others had had treats as well.
Next step was for Cinnamon to visit us in our home. She jumped in our pond and would not get out
and did not want to leave. To me it
seemed to be a good fit and Shelli, her daughter and Cinnamon all seemed to
know just how perfect this would turn out.
When Cinnamon first came to our home she would hide under
the furniture when you got home and wait to see what would happen to
Winchester. She was not good with men in general and was very leery of my
husband who loved to pet dogs. After about
3 days of feeding her and petting her she decided not all guys were bad. It
took her about 3 months to stop hiding under the furniture when you first came
in. We had many challenges. Winchester introduced
her to the horses and showed her they were harmless. Cinnamon “tom sawyered”
him out of the front seat of the car and many other prime spots. He really took
her under his wing and showed her everything was all right. I was not going to
do the agility with Cinnamon but after watching Winchester once she showed me
she was capable of doing everything.
Cinnamon is now the happiest dog I have ever seen. Every day she is full of sunshine, kisses and
love. She not only is an agility champion but a favorite in the agility
community and all love to watch her run around the ring wagging her tail on all
the equipment and making loud laughing noises ( It’s not barking). She
entertains all and gets the whole class stirred up. She is always smiling and
people are always wanting to see her. She loves playing interactive games with
you and on cold nights she loves to snuggle and will take your hand and make
you pet her. When she wants something Winchester has such as a bone she uses
her feminine guile to make Winchester jealous and give up the bone – which she
promptly takes over. When my husband got very ill she would check on him
constantly and is now not afraid of any guy.
Now instead of hiding she happily greets you in a play bow wagging her
tail. And the best thing is you know she is wagging her tail with her heart and
truly loves life. There are no bad days-
because all you have to do is go home and see Cinnamon and a bad day is good
and a good day is even better. She can make you laugh every day. I am so fortunate Cinnamon knew from that
very first meet we were meant to be her forever home. We do so many fun things
and she is a quick learner. She loves to be the star of the show. Also, I would
like to thank Shelli Ray, the ABR foster volunteer, whom I felt really put some
time and effort into Cinnamon and teaching her the basics to make her a
successful candidate for a forever home.
Molly
Another Brittany
Story
By Molly—as told to her Dad & Mom, Bob and Kathy
Ackerman
I came to ABR in 2006, because my first Daddy was living
alone and wanted me to have a better life than being in a crate all the time. The
parting was sad for everyone, but things were about to get a whole lot better…
First I got to stay with Michelle Falkinburg and family for
a couple of weeks. What fun to run around with her “pack” and play doggy games
all day. Then some new people came into my life—Bob and Kathy Ackerman, my
forever family.
My family was living in New Jersey back then, and life was
good. I had a nice back yard and also got to run on the beach on Cape Cod a
couple of times a year. Then, the most amazing thing happened. My Dad and Mom
packed up all our stuff and we moved to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware!
Summer is pretty great here, because we can buckle up for a
ride in the car with the top down and take long walks at the state park. But my
favorite time of year starts when the beach season ends. Rehoboth is doggy
heaven from October to May, because that’s when we’re allowed to walk on the
boardwalk. I love to greet all the other
dogs, and I beam with pride when people say how pretty I am. I am a walking
advertisement for my breed, because Mom and Dad always explain that no, I am
not a Springer Spaniel, and that I joined my family through American Brittany
Rescue.
This September I am turning 10, and it seems like a good
time to stop and say “Thank You!” to the wonderful people at ABR who took me in
when I needed a home and helped me find a family of my very own.
Molly Ackerman
Fozzie

This
is Fozzie. He is a 9 month old puppy who was adopted from ABR in January of
2014. He loves fishing and being around people. This is pretty amazing
considering he was petrified of people until about 4 months ago. He's also a
fun loving puppy who wears tutus (once in awhile:)
Karma
A message from Karma
(formerly Brittany)
Hey guys! Next month
(April) will be one whole year since the wonderful volunteers of ABR helped me
drive nearly 1600 miles from my foster Mom in Wichita Falls, TX all the way up to
Missoula, MT to my Forever Home. I'll admit, I was a little shy when I first
got there, but my Mom helped me get more confident with other dogs (even though
my husky brother is REALLY obnoxious) and now I'm even starting to play with
them!
My Mom is a dog
trainer, and she thinks I'm such a good example that I even get to come to work
and demonstrate my skills! I get to meet lots of other dogs (which are OK), but
meeting all the new people is my favorite! Some of them even give me treats.
When I got here I only knew how to "Sit," but now I can do all sorts
of things, like Heel, Bow, Stay, and I'm learning more all the time! I might
even be learning Nosework soon.
Oh, did I mention I'm
also a hunting dog? We go out all the time and look for birds and rabbits--it's
so much fun! And when I'm not doing all those exciting things, I have lots of
fluffy beds to lay on, and there's almost always someone to keep me company.
Mom says this summer we're going to do lots of hiking and camping.
P.S. -- Even though I
was a Texas dog, I LOVE THE SNOW! All that fluffy white stuff is lots of fun!
This really is the best. Thanks, ABR!
Love,Karma
Luke

Hi,
Well, here we are a couple months into the new year with our happy new dog,
Luke, who came on New Years Eve. "Cool Hand Luke" was his pound name.
Lucky Luke is more like it -
I have to say a little prayer of thanks and sympathy for his original people
and home. He obviously had a lot of love and pretty good training. But then one
day he ran past his horizon and couldn't find his
way back. Tapping into the training has been a challenge in some respects. It's
also possible that's just the way he is. He did a runner before. Teaching him
to "come" instead of chasing something into the
next county might just be a life lesson for him.
Meantime, around home he is biddable and a delight. He's loving, cute and has a
great sense of humor. We have all sorts of stories already. And how can you be
blue or cranky with such a ball of energy and joy just waiting an excuse to
have some fun? Had you noticed? Many Brittanies wear their hearts on their
forehead.
Cheers,
- charles
Winston

June of 2013 we welcomed ABR rescue Winston (formerly Java)
into our family. He immediately bonded
with our 13 year old Brittany, Clementine, and won the hearts of all our family
(especially our 3 and 5 year old daughters).
He has been a wonderful addition to our family - he's sweet and loving
and always up for play!
Bailey

Bailey has been with us for 10 years he has been a joy. We had to downsize
to our health but Bailey need to do that too. He is now blinded in both eyes
but that doesn't stop him. He knows the house very well as enjoys just being
with us. If anyone wants to adopt a Brittany you will never be sorry. Bailey
lost his friend Candy about 6 months ago but they enjoyed each other for about 8
years I have attached a picture of Bailey now. He has been the spot light of
the neighborhood. Everyone thinks he is handsome.
Edie Hooper and Don Hooper
Ellie Mae
Jerry and I just wanted to let ABR that we lost our beloved Ellie Mae on March
7th 2013. We were so lucky that the people who adopted her thought she was too
aggressive with her bone and surrendered her. We were the lucky humans that
picked her up at OHare from New York.
Ellie Mae (or Mae-Mae) was the
alpha female...small but mighty! She loved her bones and you best not tease her
when she was enjoying them! She would do her fake growl when Jerry would
pretend to "take" her bone. We took her down south the summer before she passed
at age
13 and she swam in that pond chasing frogs for 3 days. She slept for a
week after she got home!
The squirrels didn't have a chance around our
home. Although she couldn't chase them like she used too, she sure did make them
scarce around here. My brother bought his Pug dog over in his crate and Ellie
Mae went in that small crate! When Jerry tried to get her out she was having no
part of that and gave him her fake growl. That was her way of telling him she
wanted to play! She loved her crate even though she hasn't been in her crate for
years. When the Pug was ill she watched over him like a mother would.
So many memories. So many nose kisses. She was an independent girl.
Daddies growler. Thank you for trusting us to take care of her. She bought so
much joy to our lives. She came to us at 7 and left us at almost 14. It was a
good 7 years. We just wish it would have been longer. Nose kisses Ellie Mae. We
love you.
Thank You,
Pam Van
Dieren and Jerry Hannon
Chloe Rose

Hi ABR,
Just thought I would let you know that Chloe Rose and I are doing well.
December marked our 2 year anniversary together and her 10th birthday. Hoping
and praying that ABR will be even more successful in 2014. Here is a current
picture of us.
Greg
Benjamin Buttons

I just had to write after I read a story of a brittany that "fishes". Our Benji is quite the water dog.
Here is Benji with his fish he caught while swimming.
He lives to swim but his technique could use some work. He is more of a water slapper when you describe his stroke but he loves to swim all the same. Quite the water dog
My husbands favorite caption for the photo is : what do you mean Brittany's are "Bird Dogs"...?
Benji is also a very accomplished bug hunter. He is a relentless hunter if a fly gets into the house.
Granville

Hello ABR,
I just
wanted to send a holiday thank you for my lovely boy. I adopted Granville (was
Sonny with you) in February 2006. He has been such a joy. His is my first
Brittany and not my last :) He has a new sister - Fantasia (a setter/pointer
mix) and is helping her adjust to life in our home. Granville is always very
helpful with new dogs. I have attached his Christmas pic.
Thank
you for all you do!!! Enjoy your holidays!
Kimberly
Osmonson, Richmond VA
Abbie
Hi Everyone,
This is Abbie. I
wrote to you about a year ago after I arrived at my Forever Home. Today, December 4th, 2013, my
folks and I are celebrating our first anniversary together. It’s been a great year for all of us. I’ve really been happy. My folks love me and I’m having a fun
time.
“Dad” and I go for a walk almost every morning. Mom's and Dad’s daughter and her husband have
a Golden Retriever, Boomer, and we love to play together. I get to stay there when my folks are gone.
I wish every dog could have as good
of a home as I do. I want to thank
everyone that helped arrange for me to live with my folks.
You can see how contented I am by looking at the picture that
Dad attached
“Mom” wants to add a line to my letter now.
Abbie
Chuck and I again thank everyone for adding Abbie to our
family. There were several people
involved and they deserve mention.
Tiffany Dexter, the CO coordinator for ABR arranged the adoption. Dave Smith was the Foster Dad and took Abbie
and a crate, which we had bought for the transport, to the airport near Denver
from where she began the trip to Southern CA.
Julia Ryan-Billings, the Co-Organizer for the Animal Rescue Flights
(ARF), spent hours finding pilots who made the commitment to fly Abbie to
us. David Bamford flew her from Denver
to Phoenix, using Doug’s (I’m sorry that I don’t know his last name) plane. And,
Bob Brown completed the mission by flying Abbie from Phoenix to Fullerton,
CA. The pilots showed ingenuity in
disassembling and reassembling the crate to fit in the planes.
Abbie’s the sweetest gal ever and definitely gives as much
love as she receives. We had Brittany
pups before, but never from the ABR and we encourage everyone to adopt a Brit,
whether young or old, who needs a Forever Home.
Abbie, Chuck and I wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a wonderful New
Year.
Rosemary Leech
PS: You can see
pictures of Abbie’s trip that Julia Ryan-Billings posted on the ARF website:
http://www.meetup.com/aviation-95/photos/12035642/
Sam
Like so many of the people who adopt a dog from ABR, I had
put down my previous Brittany a year earlier.
Jaque was a wonderful dog, who was with me for nearly 16 years. He was a great companion and hunting dog, who
gave his all every time we went out. He
was healthy his entire life. As he got
older, I would ask him when I fed him, if he was going to live forever. Two months prior to his 16th birthday, Jaque began to go downhill. He
lost weight, became unstable, and gave me a look that told me what I needed to
know. I took him to Ken, the vet where I
got him when he was a pup. He took care
of Jaque his whole life and hunted over him many times. After he examined Jaque, he looked up at me
and said, “Tom, its time”. I didn’t ask
for a diagnosis. I trusted Ken, so we
put Jague to rest. I buried him behind
our house, where he loved to run, and said my good-byes. I was holding it together until my wife
hugged me and told me that he was a good dog.
Let’s just say that “real men do cry”.
A year went by and I was ready for another dog. However, I had just retired and moved to a
much smaller home. My wife wasn’t crazy
about the idea because this dog would have to live in the house, but with a
little persuasion she was on board.
Originally, I wanted a puppy, but the cost was much more than I could
afford. During my search I came across
the ABR website. I had never considered
adoption before, but when I saw all the dogs that needed homes, I was moved to
act. I couldn’t specify a dog that was
trained to hunt, but I knew that a pure bread Brittany would have that
instinct. I soon found Sam only 15 miles
away. I filled out an application and
was quickly contacted. After completing
the process, I picked up Sam. He is a wonderful
affectionate dog, who is well suited to live indoors.
After a couple months of training, I took Sam on his first
hunt. He ran over the first bird, but
retrieved it to hand. After that first
encounter, he quickly connected the scent with the bird and began pointing from
farther and farther away. The picture I
included shows Sam on a staunch point.
You can see in his eyes that he’s doing what he loves.
Even though I call him Jaque from time to time, Sam is my
boy now, and a much loved member of our family.
I thank ABR for the good work that they do. I have also volunteered to help transport
dogs. It helps me to give back a little
of what I have received.
Tom Thompson
Kalamazoo, MI
Kipper
We were looking for a pet, in particular, a dog and specifically a “Brittany”. I found the American Brittany Rescue web site and browsed the photos and bios of various dogs until I found a story and photo of “Kipper”. After talking with the area representative and asking for information , he put me in touch with the owners. At the conclusion of our telephone conversation we agreed to meet and evaluate Kipper as a possible pet from our prospective and they to evaluate us as parents for Kipper from their prospective.
It was a good meeting and we decided Kipper would be just fine for us. They agreed to allow us to become Kipper’s family and to provide a “forever” home for him. Their oldest child, age 5, I will never forget. He loved his dog and as I looked into his eyes full of tears, not really wanting to give Kipper up, I promised myself I would love this dog as much as this boy did.
Driving away was the hardest part. Kipper was constantly looking back as if to say “ Is he not coming along with us”? However, the transition went very smoothly. These parents had taught or trained Kipper so well, I now understood why they chose the name Kipper. (Kipper is a character in a series of books for preschool-age children by a British writer) Kipper was an English Gentleman We were not going to change his name.
Kipper was smart, good looking, had good manners, was house broken, kennel trained ,had personality PLUS, and his shots and records were up to date. He is the only dog I have ever known who would wait for the command to eat from his bowl. You could put ice cream in the bowl and he would not move toward it until you gave the command OK. What a wonderful job these parents had done with Kipper.
We took him home, taught him his new boundaries and wow, what an experience for us. We have had the privilege of loving and caring for Kipper over the past eleven years. He has traveled across the United States with us, up Pikes Peak, along the Grand Canyon, up the Great Sand Dunes, visited the beaches of Delaware, North and South Carolina and Florida.
What a trooper! Every place we took him he acted like a gentleman and loved everyone he met, especially children. He was family!!!
Kipper was diagnosed with Renal failure and yesterday we lost him. Words cannot describe the sadness and loss we have experienced nor the emptiness we feel. He brought so much joy into our lives and was so giving. His love for us was truly “unconditional”. How can I ever thank the original parents of Kipper for their remarkable gift? We gave Kipper a forever home, but he gave us a life time of memories filled with love and happiness. His parents wanted “only the best” for Kipper and they were heartbroken to give him up. We gave him our very best and we are heartbroken in having to give him up. He was, is still and will always be a part of our family. His DOB was August 12, 1999 and DOD October 25, 2013. Kipper was an American Kennel Club certified Brittany.
Thank you American Brittany Rescue! Thank you and the many volunteers it takes to keep your organization up and running. Thank you for the shelter you provide, the foster care you offer, the transporting and medical attention given to many. You have brought untold joy into the lives of many by your labor of love for these precious friends.
Scout

In October of 2006, my family was blessed with a new
member, Jillybean. At the time we were told that she was about 7 months old,
but after another visit to the vet they decided she was actually about 14
months. My dad had said prior to her arrival that we could only get a dog if we
named it Scout, after our beloved hamster. “It’s a boy and a girl name!” he had
said, so wouldn’t you know it, we named her Scout (Scouty). She was originally
found on the side of a highway in Virginia with her mother Celia.
After 7 great years, we have accumulated a bunch of
different nicknames for Scout (i.e. Scouty-Badowty, Scooty-Batooty, Pups
MaGups). After years of spoiling, Scouty prefers to sit in her own seat in the
car, sleep in a human-sized bed, and spend hours of relaxation in the lake. She is an avid fisherman but after many head
dunks she has never come up with a fish. Where ever we go, everyone is
interested in Scout, from the way she swims for hours to the way she points her
paw when she sees a squirrel. There are no words to describe how perfect our
Scouty is. Thank you ABR for giving us an amazing dog, but really another
family member.
"My Libby"
A little over five years ago we were asked by American Brittany Rescue to foster a sweet Brittany named Libby. She had been turned into a shelter in North Platte. She had obviously just had a litter of puppies and was still lactating. She was brought back to Omaha by Nancy and Harlan Vogel who asked us to foster her. She was spayed at Rockbrook Animal and came to our house to recuperate so that she could be adopted out by American Brittany Rescue.
Libby was a shy baby right from the start. When the doorbell rang, she would run and hide. When our other two dogs would bark she would hide. Her favorite safe place was behind our bed in our bedroom where she was out of sight. She would occasionally sleep on the bed with us but she preferred her little dog bed behind our bed where she was safe from all loud noises and the commotion of the other dogs.
I quickly feel in love with my dear sweet Libby. When the call came that a family in Atlanta wanted to adopt her I just couldn't send her half way across the country. I knew that she would be scared and I couldn't bear the thought of life without her. So we kept her. As our daughter told us, "you guys suck at fostering".
She loved to go for walks but even on her walks she was timid. She seldom would use the whole leash length, preferring to stay next to me. Lee took her out hunting but it was clear she was not a hunter. She had that Brittany nose and a couple times she pushed some pheasant out but she wasn't a pointer and just liked going for walks in the fields.
She was the sweetest dog I have ever known. She wouldn't hurt a soul. She seldom barked and never showed any aggression to anyone. One time I had her at the farmer's market on a Saturday morning. I didn't see the little girl who came suddenly at her from the side. All of a sudden there was a three year old hugging her tight and squealing "doggie"! The little girl's mother was horrified, scared that the dog would bite her little one. But Libby didn't even flinch. She just stood there and let the little girl hug her and pull on her ears. Many people around me commented, "that is a great dog, most dogs would have bitten a kid coming at them suddenly like that". I said, "I know".
About a year ago she started to slow down. We knew she about five when we got her so we thought she was just starting to get old. I took her in for tests and our vet found her thyroid was low. We put her on thyroid medication. Then last summer we had her clipped for summer and I noticed that her hair was growing in and she seemed to be panting a lot. I started googling her symptoms on the internet and it seemed to match "Cushing's Disease". I called the vet and he said to bring her in for tests.
He tested her adrenal function and sure enough she had Cushing's. Cushing's is a disease where the adrenal gland produces too much cortisol. Most likely in her case it was caused by a tumor on her pituitary gland. The symptoms are increased thirst and feeding, hair loss or failure to grow, panting and fatigue. We started her on a medication called Veteryl that can lessen the symptoms. She did better for a little while, she got a little bounce in her step and this spring she was actually chasing things in the field again. Her hair wasn't growing but we didn't care.
The past two months she had started to go downhill again. We had her tested for diabetes, which can be caused by Cushing's, but she was negative. She was losing weight and pacing incessantly. It was hard for her to sleep at night. We started giving her Melatonin. She started having accidents in the house. Libby never ever had accidents before this. She could go twelve or more hours without peeing. She was such a good dog. When we left her for long hours she never peed in the house. We would be standing at the back door with her legs crossed, but she would never go.
Then yesterday she seemed really restless. She was panting and all of a sudden her legs went out from underneath her and she couldn't stand up. I took her right into the vet. They did x-rays but couldn't find anything. She had developed a massive infection in one of her mammary glands. The vet said that Cushing's causes a compromised immune system that can lead to devastating infections. She had IV fluids and three antibiotics last night. The vet wanted her to stay overnight but I couldn't leave her there. She came home last night. She was walking some but she wouldn't eat. I sat out on my deck last night with her laying next to me. I thought she might be ok.
I took her back into the vet this morning for more antibiotics and fluids. Mid day the vet called me. It was the call I expected but dreaded. He said that she might be doing a bit better but that given her condition we should consider letting her go. Of course this was already in my heart but I knew the time had come for me to make the most painful decision of pet ownership. I knew that I couldn't put her through any more. I had to let my baby go.
Lee met me at Rockbrook Animal this afternoon. I held her and told her how much she meant to me and how much I loved her. I told her what a great dog she was and how much I would miss her. I told her that I hoped she was going to a better place and that I would be with her one day. Then I let her go. She died just as she lived, no sound, just gentle silence. I was so lucky to have her in my life. I think that dogs are just another reason I believe in God. They bring so much joy to us. They bring a love that is so strong and so unconditional. I am blessed to have known Libby. Sweet dreams my Libby Lu.
Jesse
Shortly after my husband and I got married ten years ago, we started considering
starting a family...beginning with a dog. We did lots of research and knowing we
wanted to have children eventually, we landed on a Brittany since they were
known to be wonderful family members as well as good companions for
hunting.
We soon reached
out to ABR. One day, our rescue coordinator emailed me a picture of an orange
and white Brittany that was a local stray and had just come into a local
shelter. He was holding a huge blue toy ball in his mouth and I swear he had a
smile on his face. We were smitten instantly and upon meeting him, knew we had
to have him.
Despite having four different types of worms - including
heartworms - our Jesse was the happiest, most special dog we'd ever met. From
day one, he aimed to please us.
It was rough at
first, despite our immediate bond, we had some hurdles to overcome. He had to
undergo heartworm treatment. Not fun for him and not fun for us. Limiting
exercise for a one year Brittany puppy is a challenge!
Crate training
was a disaster. He would claw himself to the point where he was bloodied and cry
endlessly. Upon opening the door, he would jet out to drink excessive amounts of
water. It was as though someone previously threw him in a crate with no water
and never let him out.
He was initially
very frightened of large men and kids. He refused to let my dad let him out to
use the restroom when we were at work. He would go in a corner and start to
shake excessively.
After heartworm
treatment, we were able to start obedience training. By this time, I had become
pregnant and was struggling a lot with nausea. In training class, Jesse would
pull me nearly to the ground, increasing my nausea from being moved too and fro
by this little ball of energy. After a few weeks of this, the instructor
suggested the gentle leader collar. I guess she figured I was no match for his
nose! The gentle leader became a life long friend to Jesse as well as
us:)
As the months
rolled by, Jesse began to settle down. With sufficient exercise, he was calm
when around us, his people and extremely friendly with all people and dogs. When
I was at the end of my pregnancy and would lay on the couch on my side, he
snuggled up behind by legs and laid his head on my hips. It was a precious
tradition we continued for years.
When we had our
first daughter, I experienced severe postpartum depression. Many days and nights
I would be crying in despair, so tired and unsure how to properly console my
colicky child. Jesse was there for me, every moment. He would place his head on
my lap as if to so "it's okay. You're a great mom".
He had a special
relationship with both our daughters. The first time both of them giggled out
loud was watching him jump in the air to catch popcorn I threw to him. I have
numerous pictures of him allowing the girls to smoother him with hugs and
kisses. He was also known to turn up with bows in his hair. He'd simply look at
me as if to say "don't they realize I am a boy??"
As the years
went by, Jesse mellowed. At a checkup with the vet last year, the vet commented
"he's turned out to be such a good dog. He was WILD when you first got him. I
didn't know if you all would make it!" 9 years later, I had forgotten what a
ball of fire he was at first. All he needed was some exercise, love and
attention.
By last year,
Jesse lost nearly all of his hearing. When I would return home after being out,
he would be curled up in a ball on the rug by our front door. You could see the
nose marks on the front window where he'd been watching us, probably thinking
"come home soon! I'm much happier with you here". I would gently wake him and
he'd greet me with a vigorous tail wag and a kiss on the nose.
In November, we
lost Jesse in a tragic accident. It was so sudden. Even today, when I arrive
home after being out, I occasionally tear up when I see that rug by the front
door, looking so empty without his sweet orange and white body curled up in that
ball. Our girls still pray for him every night when they do bedtime
prayers.
Jesse taught us so much. How to love unconditionally. How live
happily through pain. How to trust again after someone has hurt you. How to
experience pure, unadulterated joy in the little things (mainly, a tennis ball
and a game of fetch). How to comfort someone with a gentle touch.
I will forever
be indebted to ABR for the joy and cherished memories you made possible for our
family through introducing us to Jesse.
If anybody sees
this story and is considering a Brittany through ABR, all I can say is that your
life will be so much richer for it. Several months since Jesse's passing, we
have already adopted with ABR again. We discovered our home is just not the same
without a fuzzy friend - or friendS. We adopted two Britts this time (which we
highly recommend)!
Thank you ABR
for the beautiful gift you gave us through Jesse.
The Sher Family
Olathe,
KS
George
With apologies to H.A. Rey…This is George. He is a good little monkey, and always very curious.

George is (NOW!) a delight. He’s been with us for just over 2 years now (adopted from ABR May 2011). He’s still a work in progress, but so am I. When I first got him he just couldn’t settle…and I thought I knew hyper after having my son’s Brit live with me most of one summer! George is Brittany number 3 ½ for us (2 of our own plus our son’s dog). We’ve had the fearless dominant personality dog and the one who was a nervous basket-case (timid, OCD about things being out of their proper place). I was used to “zoomies,” where they would race through the house with their butts tucked under, spin in circles (again, butt tucked under!) on the bed and then leap into the next room, tear around the yard with expressions of pure glee…But George would run laps around the yard, as fast as he could, then come in and run laps around the dining room table. He’d sit down, then almost immediately start to trot around the table again. Even then, he thought everyone was his new best friend…he just couldn’t settle to be petted unless he was dismantling one of his toys (or a throw pillow…and he did that a LOT!). I actually cried a lot the first few months, from pure frustration and near despair. I kept telling myself that if I just was patient and loved him enough, eventually he’d be a really good dog, but the only time he was “calm” was when he was stalking birds or asleep. I thought about getting a thundershirt, but then saw a posting on the ABR bulletin board that suggested rubbing him HARD, like deep tissue massage. It worked ; he turned into a little limp dishrag in my lap. At that point I started letting him sleep on the bed, and that seemed to help as well, once he figured out that he was only welcome if he actually SLEPT on the bed, no leaping about or chewing the people. We took an AKC obedience class and “graduated” successfully October 2011 (although the trainer looked at us the first night and sighed, “oh, a Brittany”). It did teach him to focus on me instead of the distractions around him. He loves to do tricks for treats, will play ball for hours if someone will keep throwing it, and thinks everyone he meets is his new best friend, even the vet. And over the course of his first winter with us he learned that it’s GOOD to sit on the couch together in the evening and be petted. He’s very loved, and we thank ABR for rescuing him and helping him find his way to us.
Jennifer Maguire
Turbo
We had our first brittany, Freckles, for 14 yrs. She was such a joy to our whole family, she grew up with our kids! We waited for about a year after she passed to start thinking about getting another dog. My daughter actually found ABR online and they accepted us to adopt one of their dogs. We adopted Turbo in Feb of 2010. Turbo was six when we first got him, and he has been with us for 3 years now. He has been such a pleasure to have! It took a little while for him to adjust, but I really think he just needed to learn to trust us and to get used to his new surroundings. Now all we get is that loving brittany look, and it looks like he is smiling as he chases the birds out of the trees and around the yard.
He likes to cuddle, go on walks and to ride in the car. He has also made it his duty to guard our yard from all birds and small animals that try to come in and invade.
He works so hard that in the summer he gets really hot. We had a water feature in our yard that he tried to take over as his own pool. We could not believe he could even get in and out of it because it was only slightly bigger than him! We ended up buying him his own little pool, so he would stay out of our water feature! He loves laying in his pool on a hot day.
We also have a place in northern Michigan which he loves to visit with us. We were worried about the car ride up there at first, but he is so good. He sleeps the whole way there and back. Up north there are a whole new set of smells and animals. He has encountered a skunk, deer and even snakes up there. We do a lot of jeep riding up north and he is always the first one in the jeep. We took this picture and really feel that it says it all. We truly love having Turbo as a part of our family and feel like he is truly happy with us as well!
Sadie
Hello my friends, Sadie from Minnesota here!
I am sorry it has been so long since my last update, but boy have I been busy! I took my first road trip last fall, we went up north to see the beautiful fall colors. I was so excited I just couldn't contain myself! I met some new friends along the way and really enjoyed my first time in a cave. Yes you heard that right, a cave! It was really dark but my mom and dad had a flashlight, so I wasn't scared at all. A few weeks ago I took my first road trip out of state. We went to Wisconsin where I met my cousin Murphy; he is a Weimaraner. My mom said she couldn't believe that two dogs could run all weekend and never get tired! We had so much fun and I cannot wait to go back.
My mom adopted a new sister for me, a kitty named Mia. I really love Mia, at first I wasn't sure I liked cats but she is a lot of fun. Sometimes I get a little too excited and I play a little rough, so my mom and dad have taught me that "if she squeaks leave her alone". Sometimes I make the kitty squeak...ooops!
While I love my travels, my friends, and my sisters my favorite spot will always be anywhere that my mom is! I hope you all have a great summer!
Love, Sadie