Jo Jo, you are one heck of a dog. Oversize for your breed standard, you looked just like what you were, protector of your family. You were purchased as a protection dog but were so much more to all the family. Rene' was a toddler when you came to live with us. When you arrived you were not allowed to socialize with any one but me. You were so large and with your training I didn't want you near the kids. I had a few things to learn and you taught them to me.
We spent a lot of time walking and talking. You seemed to understand everything I was telling you. You would sit on the patio and Rene' would be inside the door pushing a ball back and forth for you to chase. You two had so much fun together and you had never officially met. Slowly and carefully you got to know each other. By the time Steven was born you were a trusted member of the family and had your place underfoot in the living room. You took the hair and ear pulling with such grace. Never doing more than wagging your tail and smoothering the kids with kisses.
But you were excellent at doing what you were bred and trained for. One night I heard the neighbors' dogs barking and let you out the back door. Someone was climbing over the privacy fence. You approached him quietly, and as he swung his second leg over the fence, you let out a growl and lunged at him with all your might. That fella swung back over that fence so fast I'm sure he landed hard on the other side. I know if he had made it into the yard you would have made him very sorry he had even thought of entering your property uninvited. I felt so secure knowing you were always on duty and that you loved us.
Well, I'll never know if it was the same man or not, but someone wanted you gone. When I found you, you were unconcious. The poison had done it's job. Your death was a great blow to our family. We all loved you so much. We moved not long after your death.
Jo, you are with my other friends now. There is no need for protection there. And I know your beautiful alert eyes are watching for a glimpse of me. One day I'll be there, Jo Jo. I love you.