Jimmy ultimately chose not to accept a living dog from Earth because of his profound and unbreakable bond with his robot companion, Robutt. Even though his parents arranged for a real dog to be brought to the Moon, acknowledging that Moon-borns like Jimmy cannot visit Earth, Jimmy's loyalty lay firmly with his artificial friend.
The Unbreakable Bond with Robutt
The decision to decline a living dog from Earth stemmed directly from the deep emotional connection Jimmy had already formed with Robutt, his "fake" dog. This relationship was not merely one of ownership but a genuine friendship built on companionship and affection.
Key aspects of Jimmy's decision included:
- Deep Emotional Attachment: Jimmy's relationship with Robutt transcended typical pet ownership; it was a bond of genuine companionship. He saw Robutt as a true friend, not just a toy or a machine.
- Familiarity and Comfort: Having grown up with Robutt, Jimmy found comfort and familiarity in their interactions. Introducing a new, living animal, despite its genuine nature, would have been a significant change to their established dynamic.
- Loyalty to His Companion: The strength of his bond meant that Jimmy did not want to replace Robutt. His loyalty to his existing robotic friend was stronger than the appeal of a new, "real" pet. He preferred to maintain his cherished relationship with Robutt rather than integrate a new companion into his life.
This choice highlights that for Jimmy, the authenticity of a "living" dog was less important than the established, loving relationship he shared with his artificial companion, Robutt.
