When someone, particularly a stranger, walks through Safe Harbor's adoption area, the dogs tend to get excited and bark. It's kind of a group thing.

When I made my rounds this week, only two dogs were quiet. One was Buford the Bloodhound, who stood nicely, toy in mouth, tail wagging and ready to play. He really needs a forever family, so please spread the word to any Bloodhound lovers you know. The other was Jixxer. He wasn't stirred up by the group because he can't hear them. Jixxer is deaf.

Jixxer is a 3-year-old American Bulldog. His family gave him up because they felt they didn't have enough time to spend with him.

I'll pause in telling Jixxer's story to speechify a bit: Your animal will love you and make your family his pack. The time to consider whether you have enough time to devote to a dog or cat is before you get him, not after. An animal is a living, breathing commitment, one that should not be undertaken lightly.

As for Jixxer, despite suddenly finding himself in a cage and being cared for by strangers, he is a sweet and loving dog. Big and a little bit goofy, he just wants to crawl up on your lap. He is not at all aggressive, or even shy or fearful.

Lisa Shinneman is a Staff member in Safe Harbor's boarding area. She loves Jixxer. When we went outside to take pictures, Jixxer ran right up to Lisa, tail wagging, and gave a little hop. I can see that Lisa's attachment is mutual.

Lisa tells me that Jixxer is smart, and learns quickly. Unable to hear voices, he knows hand commands. According to his former family, Jixxer also, she warns, knows how to open doors, including sliding ones.

Good with other dogs, Jixxer had a great time and played well when Lisa took him to the dog park. He doesn't seem to like cats. And, because he is so big and, as Lisa calls him, "clunky;" he may do better with children beyond the toddler stage. He walks nicely on his leash, but keep in mind that he's strong. So whoever takes him home should have the ability to keep a tight grip during the occasional excitement over a squirrel.

To meet Jixxer, you would not know he has a disability. He's not skittish, and he was happy to have me scratch behind his ears. His trusting nature indicates he was treated well in the past, and Safe Harbor Staff has high hopes for his future.

Come visit Jixxer. He will bring a lot of love and laughter to his new home.

Safe Harbor Animal Sanctuary and Hospital is in located in Seagrape Square, at 185 E. Indiantown Road, Jupiter. Call 561-747-1598, ext. 4, for more information.