Elroy | Bru El's the Thinker, JC CGC

Bru El's the Thinker, JC (CGC), otherwise known as Elroy, came to his present home through the efforts of Southern California Whippet Rescue, an organization good enough to approve an application submitted from the other side of the country! He arrived in Lexington, Kentucky, with his best pal, Bart, just before midnight on 14 June, 1998. Since then, he was converted to a Kentucky whippet, getting a nifty leather collar like all the horse farm dogs have, coursing his first pony, and witnessing his first snow.

Elroy was known as "Mr. Cool" because he took life in his stride, leaving the worrying to his brother, Bart. His registered name provoked those who knew him to laughter; his name is ironic, to say the least. However, he certainly could become focussed if there was a 'bunny' of some sort to be had! Elroy liked to cuddle on the couch, "cockroaching" in impossible positions, with or without company. He was curious, and simply had to know what was inside of that bag you're carrying. He will never be forgotten for stealing an opera cream cake, not the first time he had satisfied his sweet tooth. Elroy liked rawhides of every shape and size, and did his best to hide, chewing them in secret.

Elroy earned his JC at the NorthCoast Coursing Club on 14 May, 2000 under Judy Lowther and Lee Warden.

Elroy and Julie passed the Therapy Dogs Incorporated test on 21 March, 2001, and completed three supervised visits successfully, thereby becoming officially certified as a therapy dog. He passed the temperament test with flying colors (even the long sit, on the cold, wet grass!!) -- and he'd never been to an obedience class, just clicker trained at home. Julie was and is very proud!

Elroy earned his CGC on 31 August, 2001, under the auspices of the Northern Kentucky Kennel Club.

Elroy was most displeased at the arrival of a wiggly pest of a puppy in August 2003. Later, though, his attitude changed completely; Cora became his puppy. He was responsible for keeping her in line, playing with her, and was responsible for keeping her from pestering Bart.

Elroy, normally an exceedingly stoic dog, was a bit depressed after what must be the second big blow of his life, the death of his companion of 10 years, Bart. Elroy did not seem to realize what had happened until returning to the house after the euthanasia. Having been the pillar of strength for Bart, he became Julie's pillar of strength as they both coped with Bart's death. Elroy knew when Julie needed a snuggle or smooch, and always jumped in to take care of her when needed.

Elroy enjoyed his status as test dog at WRA, NAWRA and NOTRA race meets, occasionally sneaking in some practices, even in his advanced age. He looked spectacular up until the last 6-12 months of his life. He passed away on July 28, 2008, at home with his humans and kennelmates around him.