There is nothing quite like the relationship that a boy has with his beloved pet. Those of us who grew up with an animal in our household realize just how close we can become. This is often associated with dogs and certainly, as man’s best friend, a dog can become a boy’s best friend as well. Those are relationships that last for many years and often, it shapes the way a person feels about animals for the rest of their life.
Although dogs may lead the list when it comes to favorite pets, they certainly are not the only animal that can be by a young child’s side. We might be thinking perhaps a cat or maybe some hamsters but have you ever thought about the love of a duck? That’s right, ducks can be more than a faithful animal, they are loyal and will stick by your side through thick and thin. They will follow you everywhere you go and that can be seen in the case of Nibbles. Nibbles is a duck and he absolutely loves one special little boy.
Nibbles came into the world in the summer of 2014. His egg hatched while young Jonny was holding it and the first impression lasted. The newborn Rouen duck imprinted on his big brother and they have been getting along wonderfully ever since.
Jonny has many different health issues that include OCD, anxiety and ADHD. His mother, Jamie Toschi wrote the following on her Facebook page. It was entitled “The Adventures of Jonny And Nibbles.” The Post Has Gone Viral.
“Having Nibbles by his side has helped Jonny tremendously. Jonny is more outgoing, socializes better and daily tasks are not so constricting now. Although he stills likes some things done a certain way, he has learned to deal with changes in a better way.”
“Nibbles has helped soothe him in meltdowns and he has fewer of them now. Nibbles needs Jonny just as much. Because of the imprint Nibbles has on Jonny, Nibbles sees himself as a human, not as a duck. Nibbles prefers the company of humans. Jonny in particular.”
“He sees Jonny as his best friend, brother, partner and soul mate. Jonny holds the key to Nibbles survival. They’d be lost without each other.”
When a dog is waiting for his master to get out of school, they often display much excitement. Nibbles is no different. He may not wag his tail in the same way as a dog but he certainly wags his tail feathers.
When mom comes to pick them up, he sits right next to her in the car. He just can’t wait to see his Jonny stepping off the school bus.
As it turns out, Nibbles does think that he is a dog trapped in a duck’s body. He loves Jonny and will cuddle up to him anywhere they happen to be. It’s a true love story of a young boy and his pet and it is one that touches our heart.
