Three years ago, I took a break from volunteering at the Animal Foundation to look at some cats. I needed a small companion to stick with me while pursuing my passions for writing and financial freedom. I stumbled upon this fat calico domestic shorthair named Ginger, the most relaxed cat I have ever seen. She just lay in her kennel, waiting for me to pet her. It was love at first sight as I got up early and adopted her the next day.
Vegas Golden Knights fans have similar stories as pet parents, adopting little furbabies to enrich their lives. It doesn't matter if it's a tiny Yorkshire Terrier named after Marc-Andre Fleury or a big Mastiff named Barbashev, a universal love for animals is what brings a smile to everyone's faces. That love extends beyond T-Mobile Arena and into their loving homes.
The Golden Knights are no different from this, where the team has gotten involved in the animal sphere. For example, William Karlsson rescued his golden retriever/jindo mix, Obi, from a Korean dog meat farm. Obi has gained a cult-like following on Instagram with over 14,500 followers. But there have been other furry friends that have captured the hearts of fans in Las Vegas. Here are some shining examples of "man's best friend" in hockey.
Remembering some beloved furry friends in Vegas Golden Knights history, including one named after Marc-Andre Fleury
Last season, the Vegas Golden Knights adopted a golden retriever named Maverick. He's undergoing 16 to 18 months of socialization and basic training with Golden Knights players and fans alike (who also picked the name). The goal? Make him a service dog with assistance from America's VetDogs. But he's not the first furry buddy to be adopted by the team and fanbase.
Bark-Andre Furry, aptly named after beloved goaltender, Marc-Andre Fleury, was a therapy dog and ambassador for the Tyler Robinson Foundation. Bark-Andre's favorite pastimes were attending Golden Knights practices and having fun at the park. The 14-year-old dog passed away in June 2023, impacting numerous lives around him. That included Golden Knights fans and Las Vegas families, bringing smiles to everyone's faces.
If you ever find yourself stressing over a tight hockey game, be sure to have your little friends with you. It doesn't matter if it's a happy golden retriever or a chunky calico cat. Have them by your side as you watch the Golden Knights battle at T-Mobile Arena this upcoming season. Who knows? You might give them lots of hugs and kisses if Vegas wins.