Furry Friends Day

How Three Families Found Love, Loss and Responsibility Through Their Pets.

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March 23 marks National Puppy Day , a celebration the joy and companionship puppies bring into our lives.

First started in the United States in 2006, the day has since become a global moment of appreciation for furry friends everywhere.  Across the world, people share pictures and stories of their pets using the hashtag #NationalPuppyDay, turning social media into a heartwarming collage of wagging tails, playful paws, and unforgettable memories. 

But for many families, puppies are more than cute photo opportunities. They’re companions, protectors, teachers and yes, a lifelong commitment. Three Calgary families share their stories of life with a dog: from laughter and bonding to snowy struggles and brave hearts.

 

A Friendship That Grows

When Shany Yeung brought home Ball Ball, a brown toy poodle, in June 2023, the house buzzed with excitement. He was just two months old — small, curly, and full of energy. But her two-year-old daughter didn’t know what to make of the furry newcomer.  “She cried when he came near her,” Shany said, smiling. “She just sat on the stairs and cried.” Thankfully, the moment didn’t last long. The little girl and the little poodle soon became best friends. These days, they nap side by side, walk hand in hand ,and paw, and share giggles in the living room. “Watching them grow up together is one of the sweetest things I have ever experienced,” Shany said. Ball Ball’s early puppy days were challenging. “He pooped everywhere,” she laughed. “We trained him gently, sometimes putting him in his crate, which we jokingly called ‘the jail.’ It took patience.” As a Canadian pet owner, Shany also keeps the seasons in mind. “Our winters are cold. Ball Ball doesn’t go out much, but people with larger dogs need to prepare  coats, boots, the works.” Her advice is simple but wise : “Your pet might be a small part of your life, but to them, you’re everything. Treat them like family.”

 

Popcorn, the Fluffy Performer

Maggie remembers her dog Popcorn , a white Bichon Frisé with a round body, bouncy personality, and a name that fit just right. “He was like a popcorn kernel, full of energy and always popping into the room,” she said. “He made us laugh every day.”

Popcorn was especially clever when it came to snacks. “He’d roll, spin, even bow dramatically for food. He loved to perform.”

Maggie says the biggest challenge was time. “We had to find help when we travelled, friends, dog hotels. It takes planning, and a good support system really helps.” Popcorn eventually passed away, but his presence still lingers. “He always greeted me like I was the best part of his world. Saying goodbye was heartbreaking.” Maggie hopes others understand what pet ownership really means. “It’s not just about the fun parts. You have to be there for them every single day  through joy, illness, aging, everything.”

 

Sof, the Brave and Gentle Soul

Anna Kim still remembers the day she met Sof, a Welsh Corgi. “He was so cute and calm. I knew he was meant to be with us.”

For 14 years, Sof joined the family on camping trips, forest walks, and slow strolls by the ocean. “He would walk beside me at my pace. We’d just breathe together. He made everything more peaceful.” But Calgary’s winters were tough on Sof’s short legs. “He waddled through snowbanks like a brave little soldier,” Anna said. Then came a moment Anna will never forget. While she was bathing her child, a large Jindo dog from a neighbour’s yard broke into their home. When she stepped out, Sof came running — tail wagging — with blood on his neck. “He had fought to protect us,” Anna said. “The vet told me if the wound had been slightly deeper, he might have died.” That day, Sof showed just how courageous a small dog could be. He lived a full 14 years and passed away peacefully in Anna’s arms. “I still can’t bring myself to adopt again. The bond was too strong.” Anna’s message: “Don’t adopt a pet just because they’re cute. You need to be ready for the good days and the hard ones. Be their family, all the way.”

 

More Than Just a Pet

From Ball Ball’s first cries and cuddles to Popcorn’s playful routines and to Sof’s snowy walks and quiet bravery , these stories show just how deeply pets shape our lives. They bring laughter, loyalty, and lessons we never expected. They also bring early mornings, accidents on the carpet, and heartache. But their love , simple, constant, and pure , makes it all worthwhile.

So on this National Puppy Day, share your photos. Use #NationalPuppyDay. Celebrate your pet. But most of all — love them like family. Because that’s exactly what they are.