aww cute Timber and Juneau really do look alike lol
I think that if your friend doesn't have enough time for a dog that is is responsible to give it up so someone who does have enough time and can give her the attention Nikita needs It wouldn't be very nice to keep a dog that you can't give the attention it needs...That's neglect, and so I think your friend is making the right choice.
About you being sad about Juneau not being able to play with Nikita, do you think that it's possible to keep in contact with Nikita's new owner? Maybe the shelter could tell you the person's number?