Leia, the flower dog

For those that read my columns regularly, Leia (Star Wars General), our Frenchie is a familiar topic. From her adoption in 2020, and through many medical difficulties, I have shared the highs and lows, and am pleased to report that she continues to thrive with limited medical interventions, largely due to our protocols of raw foods, supplements and probiotics.

In April 2020, Leia entered our family. Jenn from Jenn’s Furry Friends knew that we had just lost our first Frenchie, Stitch. Stitch was a wonderful dog, but had a compromised spine, and at the tender age of four had catastrophic neck disk failure that would have left her in permanent pain even with surgeries.

Knowing that we had experience with the complex partnership that a French bulldog presents, and knowing that Leia could be a difficult path forward, Jenn thought we would be able to handle the challenge.

Leia is a wonderful soul trapped in a body that can’t always keep up. French bulldogs have so many issues and limitations, but make up for that in their dedication and comical nature.

Which brings the reason for writing about her again in my column. Recently, our daughter Mary got married. It was a small gathering, but large enough to have dancing at the reception.

As we don’t have any young relatives, it was decided that Leia could be the “flower girl.” Jackie put together a nice outfit that matched her dress. The day was perfect, not sunny, not raining, not cold. Perfect weather for a wedding — and for a Frenchie.

As the processional started, Leia and Jackie took their spot. Jackie led her down the aisle, sprinkling rose petals behind her so Leia wouldn’t “stop to smell the roses.” She did her part spectacularly, and laid down and rested through the ceremony, creating no distraction.

After the ceremony, Leia visited with as many of the guests as she could, and begged as many beet chips and chicken finger nuggets as doggedly possible. She behaved perfectly and we couldn’t have been more pleased.

We had brought her bed, and even with the distraction of food nearby, Leia napped. Through the whole meal, she woke up in time to beg pieces of fruit from our desserts. As the mingling began, Leia was on top of her game, visiting each table and eliciting pats, hugs and even lap cuddles at just about every stop.

When the dancing started, Leia decided she needed to get some exercise and strut her stuff. The other dancers were happy to oblige her, and Leia again became the centre of attention.

I have to admit, I had reservations about bringing a dog to a wedding, but Leia proved my concerns were completely without merit. She was a joy, and a great addition to the event.

We have to mention that all rescues need our support year round. Jenn’s is no exception and always has a large vet bill hanging over their heads for all the veterinary care they take the responsibility for. If you want to help, you can etransfer to Jennsfurryfriendsrescue@gmail.com, or by making a payment directly to their account at St.Norbert Vet at 204-261-7376. Most rescues will have similar arrangements, where you can direct your donation to directly benefit those animals in care, and make sure the rescue has funds available when a new pet is in need.