Second Chances, founded by licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator Brigette Brouillard in 2009, takes in many types of wild animals like bats, skunks, and beavers. According to their website, the animals “are cared for until they are ready to be released back into their natural environment.”
This means they heal with use of enclosures that mimic their typical habitat. There, they learn essential survival skills before they’re released into protected areas. For some like JB, they become a permanent staple of the rescue itself.
“‘JB’ is short for Justin Beaver,” the website says. “What a busy beaver he is! While we raise funds to build him a large outdoor enclosure with his own pond, he is living with our center Director. He enjoys chewing on her doors, walls, and baseboards.”
“He builds dams from treasures he finds around the house: magazines, recycling bin, lap top, stuffed animals, shoes, rugs, and socks. He builds them by doors, the dishwasher, and in front of the refrigerator. He adores sweet potatoes, apples, white birch, willow, and kale. He likes to swim in the bathtub and often just floats around. He falls asleep with a big wad of baby blanket in his mouth.”
Just recently, The Dodo tweeted a video showcasing JB and his adorable blanket habit, which was presented by Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom.
“All of the blankeys have little suckle marks on them,” Brouillard said in the video. The beaver whose presence gifted children through educational visits (as well as his adorable antics) touched many. News of his passing came from Brouillard on Instagram, just a day before The Dodo premiered JB’s video.
“Our sweet JB has earned his angel wings. He will always be loved and never forgotten,” the caption reads.
The beloved beaver died from “rodent bloat,” and “an overgrowth of bacteria.” Bouillard went on to say antibiotics wouldn’t have helped and there was nothing that could’ve been done to save JB. Devastated fans poured in with words of comfort.
“I’m truly sorry, for the loss of JB. What a little character, we will never forget him. Sending [heart emoji],” sophiedt70 commented.
“My heart goes out to everyone there at second chances. Such devastating news, and it breaks my heart. Rest In Peace, precious J. B. We love you and you will be missed but never forgotten,” nighthawk19711 said.
“Sweet JB awaits you at the rainbow bridge! I’m so sorry for your loss and heartache. JB led a magnificent life and he was a wonderful educator/ ambassador for wildlife! I will miss his darling, naughty antics!” pen468 wrote.
“So shocked and heartbroken to hear this news. I know this must have been a difficult video to make, while you’re processing your own grief at JB’s loss. JB will be loved forever, and he is now watching over you as you’ve watched over him. Until we meet again, JB,” animalloverinsocal added.
JB will be missed by all who loved him.
