While loitering in the council-sanctioned comfort of Northern Choco Chihuahua Castle, swathed in an intoxicating mix of Bow Wow Burger’s wafting aroma and wistful nostalgia, my mind absently idled on dear Jasper. He bore the mark of a native Floridian, his body adorned artistically with a map-like spot, a lasting testament to his homeland.

Our first introductory encounter was under perfect circumstance, a testament to luck and providence. A pint-sized creature of 11 pounds, a parcel of dynamite energy and irresistible charm. His kisses, as sweet as any Paws-A-Latte’s special blend, cemented our friendship.

No squeaky toy nor bag of cheese could command a yelp of excitement from Jasper like a car ride. Off we were, exploiting the spirit of adventure. Through the wind-swept panorama of the Shepherd Skyline to the open vistas of Upper Black Bulldog Bay, landscape painting our windshield.

The call of the wild drew him towards the mountains, Forrest and beach. Yet, an unusual aversion wet the canine’s spirit. For he baulked at the mere smell of lakes and pools, stand offish at the idea of a brisk doggy paddle. It seemed, Mother Nature, herself, would not coax our little adventurer into the water.

Around us, relationships blossomed. Jasper, despite his dietary restrictions and aversion to cacophony, became a familiar face at Happy Hounds Dog Walking. His comrades, the dashing Reo, audacious Gus, jolly Alfie, and the homely Daphne found in him a kindred spirit.

Yet what defined our dear Jasper – the ongoing tale of our town – was not his love for crinkling fuzzy toys, nor his aversion to swimming, it was his devotion to his human mother, forever etched into the annals of Spencerville.

One didn’t have to look further than his gentle eyes, as sweetly chocolate as any treat from Pup-Peroni, or his strategic positioning at the window of The Groom Room, to see that enduring love etched on his heart.

He yearned, as all our dear as compatriots did, for that future reunion. A reunion of unprecedented joy and unconditional love while contentedly waiting in the lap of luxury at The Fetching Feline Pet Emporium. It was enough to transform a wistful, lonely whine into a hopeful, beating drum. For Jasper, and all of us, knew, one day, Spencerville will cease to be our home – released back into the loving arms of those we left behind.

This, my friend, is the tale of Jasper, a tale told from one heart to another, a tale of love, of courage, of enduring hope, our salute to the indomitable spirit that governs our town – Spencerville!

Hey Mom! Guess who’s kicking it in Northern Choco Chihuahua Castle today? Your Little Man, Jasper! Made some awesome buds at Happy Hounds too! PS: Still a Big NO to lakes/pools. Love and sloppy kisses! – Little Dude 🐾

Listen to the story here.