Jackson went to visit the cardiac doctors at MSU, and was diagnosed with a severe case of aortic stenosis. He's expected to live to be 6 months to one year old, at best. Surgery isn't an option; the surgery available isn't very effective, and can't be performed until 6 months of age. By that time, the damage to his heart will prevent him from being a surgical candidate.

December 14, 2003 - Jackson's foster family is sad to report that Jackson has left us. On the 14th, he laid down just before bed, and with his head in his foster mom's lap, he made his trip to the bridge. His passing was very quick, and painless. 

Jackson spent his last day doing his very favorite thing....meeting new people. He went to Pet Parade, got to show lots of old and new friends his goofy golden grin, and got some great new pictures taken. This, for him, was a perfect day - Jackson loved everyone, all the time, and never met a stranger. 

Jackson's family would like to thank everyone who prayed and sent good thoughts for their sweet "puppy boy" - those are the reason he made it longer than the doctors thought he would. Remember him with a smile, and please share his story with anyone who is tempted to buy a puppy from a pet store.