From the looks of the photos below, it does appear that Jasper and Ernie became fast friends! While it took awhile for the nervous pooch to get used to his new BFF the two developed a great bond and as long as Ernie is by his side, Jasper is an easy-living and more outgoing dog!
Jasper was found on the streets and rescued when he was just a year old. No one is sure what happened to Jasper during his first year of life, but he was underweight when he arrived at Austin Pets Alive (APA), and had mange and intense anxiety issues.
Even once he was adopted by his new dad, Tom Paradis, his fears and anxieties didn't go away.
In order to help Jasper overcome his fears and relax a little, Paradis decided to try fostering a puppy. He thought maybe if Jasper had a friend by his side, the world wouldn't seem so scary anymore.
via Rachel BillingsErnie had been pulled by APA from a high-kill shelter with his mom and siblings.
His new family loved him immediately — except for his new brother Jasper, who needed a little more time.
“Ernie helped Jasper learn to play and explore and just enjoy being a dog,” Billings said. “Now, they are inseparable and Jasper is like a different dog. He can still be fearful, but he is so much more confident when Ernie is around.”
via Rachel BillingsBecause fostering is what led them to Ernie, Paradis and Billings have started fostering frequently over the past few years, and while Jasper is sort of indifferent about all the puppies who pass through, Ernie simply cannot get enough. It seems his purpose in life is to comfort and mentor other dogs in need, and he loves playing with and taking care of every new dog his parents take in.
via Rachel BillingsJasper may still get anxious sometimes, but as long as Ernie is by is side, he can now get through anything that comes his way.
via Rachel Billings
This outcome may not be the same for all dogs but it’s great to see that Jasper overcame his anxiety. To read more on this frightened but precious and worthwhile pup head to The Dodo. Like humans, dogs can experience PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) and we can only wonder what poor Jasper went through during his young life.
However, we are thrilled that he ended up with a loving family that thought enough of their furry family member to bring him in a buddy who will remain his brother, companion, and sense of security for all times!
