A woman commented on an earlier blog post here, and it sounded like she somehow knew Ami, but I couldn’t tell for sure from her comment. She left a number and I just had a feeling I should call her. So I did.
Her name is Jackie, 73, and she’s the one who originally rescued Amicus from Abbotsford Animal Control so many years ago. She said she fell in love with him and knew he was a very special dog. She said she cried over him so often because he had just given up at the Abbotsford pound, he lay on cold concrete, they overfed him, there was poo and pee everywhere, and she said one day he just wouldn’t get up, he’d totally given up, she said.
She lost sleep over him and did everything in her power to eventually be able to take him in her van (along with about five other dogs she was also rescuing) all the way over to the SPCA on the Island. She said she loved him so much.
Thank you, Jackie, from the very bottom depths of my heart for rescuing A.J., as he then was, and for saving him for me so he could become Amicus Black and I could be his happy forever home. He’s the best thing that ever happened to me and I love him completely.
Without you and your rescue efforts, he’d probably be dead long ago. I can’t begin to thank you enough on his behalf and all the other dogs you’ve rescued. I’m so glad I phoned you and again thank you so much.
Andrea Layne Black
(And Ami says he loves you, too xxxooo!)
Amicusblack's Blog 
Hi Andrea,
It is Jackie Watkins (from Surrey) getting in touch with you again. I have a dog that is 6 years old and spayed as a pup. She has so man qualities the same as Abi. In the face they look the same to me. I think their stories are much the same too. So hope to hear from you…….. Please call me 604 543 3207Feb 6 2016
Hi Jackie, this is Joanne Husband from Nanaimo. I adopted “Shyla” from you about 11 years ago. We lost touch along the way after you left FB. Just wanted you to know Shyla is still going strong and has become such an outgoing girl from that shy little one I first met, she now has 2 eskie brothers lol. Hope you are doing well and often think of you. So greatful! Take care.
Hi Jackie, not sure you remember me (Joanne Husband, Nanaimo) but I adopted Shyla from you about 11 years ago. She is still going strong and has turned into a wonderful outgoing little girl which is a sharp contrast from the timid baby we first met. She now has 2 eskie brothers lol… Often have thought of you and guess we lost touch after you closed your FB page. Hope you are doing well, take care.
Hi Andrea, I was googling and came across your blog. Jackie was very instrumental in our adopting Shyla about 11 years ago as well. She came to us as a very frightened and timid little girl but today is so outgoing and sweet. She has 2 brothers now,also eskies whom she adores. I am forever grateful to Jackie for entrusting us with Shylas life. Take care, Joanne H.
That is so cool! Yes, if it wasn’t for Jackie, I wouldn’t have my best buddy in the world, Mr. Amicus Black! All the best from me and the hound!
Fantastic! So happy for you. If you are talking to her please send her best regards from Shyla in Nanaimo and from her Mom Joanne. Have a wonderful day!