Celebration of an Incredible Companion

Jack the Lad was a one of a kind.  He was born in a litter of two.  He and his brother Harry were such big puppies and our first experience with breeding.  Because there were two and they were big, they were born at the University of Wisconsin Veterinary Teaching Hospital.

When Jack and Harry were 12 weeks, it was decided that we would keep Harry and Jack would go to live with our friends Nancy and Richard Wallens. (Harry on left, Jack on the right.)

Jack went on to a successful show career, Harry went to a few shows and retired as he was not meant for the show scene.  He was also a very strong dog and we decided to place him with a wonderful family in Illinois when we decided to keep Maddie from our second litter.  Every time I went to visit at the Wallens, Jack was delighted to see me and I was delighted to see him as well.  Nancy described him as easy going and always a great dog to have around.

His handler, Nancy Martin said no one could give kisses like Jack.  He spent 2 years on his show career and then returned to the Wallens for retirement.  While there he began his stud career and ultimately sired 24 puppies which I described in another blog post.  He became eligible for the Otterhound Club of America's Registry of Merit producing many champions.

When his mother, Kendall died, Nancy Wallens sent Jack home to live with us once again.  Jack and I had fun doing all sorts of things, it felt like we were meant to be together.  We first earned a Canine Good Citizen title and went on to have hilarious adventures in rally.  We never earned top scores but we did earn Jack's rally novice title.  From there we went on to try agility as a couple of series of classes but once I saw that he didn't have good body awareness on the dog walk, I decided that was enough of that activity-I never wanted him to get hurt.  Jack loved walks and never wanted to be left behind if anyone was going out.  Whenever I was away, Bruce always reported that Jack waited for me at the back door or stood watching for my return at the far end of the fence, rarely distracted.

Jack, I loved you and I miss you.  But you will live on in my heart forever!
Jack the Lad, 2/8/03 to 12/2/14.
Ch. Kalevala Jack the Lad, CGC, RN, VO, ROM, Best Friend, Ambassador for the Breed. You were an unforgettable character.