Paralympic athlete and Maryland native Jessica Long is shedding light on the profound bond she shares with her three-year-old dog, Goose, in a new advertising campaign for Team USA athletes. Long, a world-class swimmer, has embraced Goose not only as a companion but as an integral part of her mental and emotional well-being.
Growing up training at the Merritt Club in Towson, Long spent countless hours in the pool, but it’s with her golden doodle, Goose, that she finds motivation and support, especially during intense training sessions. “This is my little golden doodle, Goose, and I love him,” Long shared, revealing how the pup’s presence and even a cold-nosed kiss can be a perfect reward for a hard workout.
Although Long didn’t grow up with dogs, she welcomed Goose into her family as a special anniversary gift for her husband. Since then, Goose has become an important emotional anchor for Long, especially throughout her career as a swimmer. “I think mental health is so important, especially as athletes. Goose just puts everything in perspective — what’s important and, for me, training,” Long explained. She went on to describe how Goose has helped her find balance in her life, teaching her to slow down and focus on what truly matters, rather than solely chasing gold medals.
Born in Russia and adopted by American parents, Long faced a challenging start in life, having had her lower legs amputated when she was just 18 months old. Despite these challenges, she found solace and strength in swimming, beginning her competitive career at age 12. Goose, with his playful curiosity, is fascinated by Long’s prosthetics, often seeming to wonder how she shifts from “short to tall” when she wears her leg.
As one of eight Team USA athletes featured in a new campaign for the pet food brand Nulo, Long highlights the vital role that pets, like Goose, play in supporting athletes’ journey to the global stage. “I value what I put into my body,” Long noted, stressing the importance of nutrition not only for herself but for Goose as well. She trusts Nulo to fuel him with the best, sharing that, just as with her own training, she ensures that her dog receives the best possible care.
For Long, promoting Nulo was a natural fit. “I want to know that I am fueling him with the best of the best, and Nulo is truly the best,” she added. Her bond with Goose exemplifies the deep, often unspoken relationship between humans and their pets — a connection that goes beyond companionship, offering athletes like Long the emotional strength to excel in their pursuits.