A Conversation with Jeter

KELLER, Texas - Jeter, an 11-year-old mixed-breed dog, has spent over a decade as the steadfast therapy companion to Steve Bottley, easing his high anxiety with a bond forged through a thoughtful adoption from PetSmart.

Richard: Hello, Jeter! I'm with Dogs and Their Humans™. Thank you for taking the time to share your story. Let's start with the basics—how old are you, and how long have you and Steve been together?

Jeter: (tail wags and head tilts) I'm 11 years old now—pretty seasoned, huh? When Steve brought me home, I was just a bouncy 6-month-old pup.

Richard: You look well preserved for an eleven-year-old pitbull mix. Do you know your ancestry?

Jeter: The doctor says I am part labrador, pitbull, and something else. Taking my DNA was kind of new when I was born, so I will go with that.

Richard: Tell me, how did you and Steve first meet?

Jeter: (Perks up ears) Well? One day, Steve saw me at a PetSmart store and thought I was cute. I didn't have a name back then—just a wiggly little guy looking for a home. He didn't scoop me up right away; he took a week to think it over, called the lady with the business card from the store, and then came back for me. I could tell he'd really prepared himself mentally to be my human. He was patient and gentle. I learned to trust him.

Richard: Trust sets the stage for bonding. You learned that Steve's got high anxiety and became his therapy dog, right? How do you help him when he's feeling off?

Jeter: (Sniffs the air, then rests his chin on his paws) I can tell when he's anxious—his shoulders get tight, or he paces a bit. I'll nudge him with my nose, plop my head on his lap, or kiss him on the cheek while he's driving. Keeps him grounded, you know?

Richard: I love that! Research suggests dogs release oxytocin to help humans build loving bonds with dogs. Have you noticed that with Steve?

Jeter: (Wags tail slowly) Is that what they call it? I thought it was gas! (winks) I suppose that is true. All I know is that we both feel better when we're cuddling or walking. He's single and has no kids, so I'm his main buddy. I take my job seriously.

Richard: Serious, huh? Well? I heard you have quite the personality. What's with the squirrels and dirty socks?

Jeter: Oh... that. Squirrels are my nemesis! Back in my speedy days, I caught six in my backyard. And the socks? When I find one, I grab it and toss it around like a toy. It keeps things light and Steve laughing.

Richard: And I hear you're confused by hide-and-seek?

Jeter: (looks around to ensure they are alone) Steve tries to play, but I don't get the counting part. He hides, and I sit there like, 'Where'd you go?' Then he pops out, and I act like I'm all surprised. He says I'm better at finding squirrels than humans, so I play along like I can't smell him. Let's keep that between you and me.

Richard: Too cute! You shake hands for treats? What's the deal there?

Jeter: (Sits up, offers a paw) It's my gentleman move! Steve taught me as a pup, and I love it 'cause it's like saying, 'Hey, I'm polite—gimme that treat!-pretty please?'

Richard: I was taught that dogs and cats don't mix well. Apparently, you get along just fine. Care to explain?

Jeter: (Wags tail faster) Cats can be great company! My 'meow' buddy down the street? He just lays around while I sniff all over. I like cats because they don't bark! Once they get to know you, they are quiet company. Steve says I'm a dog with a cat's soul.

Richard: That paints such a great picture of you! There's a story about you visiting Steve's dad in a nursing home. Something about running to his side the moment the door was open? How'd you know where to go?

Jeter: (Perks up, then softens) We'd been there before when Grandpa was in rehab. I remembered the smells—kinda like a map in my nose. When we walked in, I just knew—and went straight to his room! Steve was shocked, but Grandpa lit up seeing me. Steve was not the only human I bonded with in this house. Grandma and Grandpa were special souls. I miss them.

Richard: (touched) Your unconditional love must have meant a lot.

Jeter: We have been through some challenging times together. Steve lost both his parents recently, and I was there through it all. Ya know, Richard? (humbly bowing) There is a reason they say, 'All Dogs Go To Heaven.'

Richard: I believe that, Jeter. I really do. What advice would you give someone dealing with anxiety and considering getting a dog?

Jeter: (Looks up brightly) Make sure you're ready—they can be challenging but worth it. Pick a dog that fits you—some are wild, some are calm like me. And once you've got 'em, spend those early weeks bonding and training. Communication is important. Take them on walks. Show them love and play with them often. That's how you build the magic.

Richard: Wise words! Wrapping up, Jeter, how do you feel about where you and Steve are now?

Jeter: (Pauses, tail slows) Well? I'm 11 years old now. I think that is 77 in dog years, right? I'm slowing down a little, but still here for Steve. He's all I've got, and I'm all he's got since his folks passed. It's just the two of us with no kids and no spouse. (Looks at Richard, eyes soft) I know I won't be around forever, but I get to be his best friend and family daily. It's my mission and makes me happy, even if it makes me a little teary sometimes.

Richard: (Reaching to pat Jeter) Jeter, you're breaking my heart in the best way. Thanks for sharing your story—it will touch many of our readers on X.

Jeter: (Wags tail vigorously, nudges Richard's hand) I'm Glad I did it! I hope it helps people see why dogs are important, especially for humans like my Steve.