By Nick Murphy
Introducing Neenie, junior Jeremiah Wright’s gleeful bichon-poodle mix.
Six years ago, the Wrights embarked on a journey to Connecticut to pick up the fluff ball soon to be thoughtfully named Neenie.
“We thought of the name Snowball, because of how fitting it was for the way she looked. But we ended up naming her Neenie. It’s unique and it was also my grandmother’s nickname,” Wright said.
The ride home may have been Neenie’s first ever time in a car, but she quickly found comfort by nestling in Wright’s arms.
That did it – the two were inseparable.
For the Frst few months home, Neenie was Wright’s shadow. Wherever Wright went, the dutiful puppy trotted behind.
“She wore this collar with a small bell on it, so I could always tell she was behind me when I heard it ring,” said Wright.
The only time Neenie’s jolly jingling would subside was when Wright took a trip downstairs. Instead of following, Neenie would plop down and gaze quizzically at Wright, wondering how she, too, could traverse such a daunting downward descent.
When it was time for bed, Neenie would try her best to launch herself onto Wright’s bed.
Legs Frmly planted. Body poised. Woolly tail sufficiently still. It was time for the leap.
Conk. Drop. Flop.
Time after time, Neenie came up just a few inches short. That was until one final hop propelled her enough to reach her blanketed landing zone.
Once atop her palace of pillows, a celebratory tail chase was in order. “She loves to chase her tail, especially when she’s on the bed for some reason. Although sometimes, she gets carried away and spins her way right off the side,” Wright added.
What Neenie may lack in grace, she makes up for in resiliency. She now zips up and down the stairs with ease, although she is prone to careening off the last step when she gets too excited, resulting in an impressive somersault worthy of a Wipeout highlight reel.
When it comes to strangers, Neenie is no meanie. While she can be a tad apprehensive with new people at first, before long, she is ready for attention from anyone.
“For a little dog, she has a surprisingly loud bark, which catches some people off guard when they realize who it’s coming from,” Wright said.
Over the years, Neenie has become more independent, especially since Wright has gone off to college. “She’s definitely adapted well, and she’s been growing even closer to my family along the way. It’s good to see her opening up and doing things on her own,” Wright said.
“She’s friendly, energetic and affectionate. ... She finds ways to make us laugh,” Wright added.
There is no doubt that Neenie was the Wright choice.