In Colorado Springs, Colorado, a French bulldog puppy’s life took a heartwarming turn from being abandoned on the streets to playing a pivotal role in his new owners’ engagement—all within his first 10 weeks. Jason Stolz, an employee at the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region, had been pondering over the perfect way to propose to his girlfriend, Julia Proper, for a year. The couple, who met online three years prior, realized early in their relationship during a trip to the Pacific Northwest that they were destined to be together.
Stolz shared with KKTV reporter Lindsey Grewe, “It was during that trip I realized she was the one. I knew we were meant to spend our lives together.” Finding the right moment to propose proved challenging until Banjo, a tiny French bulldog, entered their lives. Banjo was discovered wandering alone on a Colorado Springs sidewalk at just 6 weeks old, separated from his mother and siblings. A kind-hearted individual found him and brought him to the Humane Society, where Stolz works.
Upon seeing Banjo, Stolz felt an instant connection. “He was so adorable, and I immediately knew I wanted to adopt him. Plus, I had been looking for a unique way to propose to Julia, and involving Banjo seemed like the perfect idea,” Stolz explained. Given Banjo’s young age, Stolz had to wait two weeks before he could take him home. During this time, he sought Proper’s approval for the adoption, to which she enthusiastically agreed after receiving numerous photos of the charming pup.
With the first “yes” secured, Stolz began planning the proposal. He had a dog tag engraved with “Will you marry me?” and kept it hidden in his work backpack, anxiously hoping Proper wouldn’t discover it prematurely. Once Banjo reached 8 weeks old, he was ready to be adopted and assist in the special moment.
Proper had no idea about the proposal plan. On the day, Stolz picked up Banjo and the engagement ring while Proper was at work. He set up a camera at home to capture the moment and waited for her return. “When Jason handed me the puppy, I was overjoyed. Then he suggested I look at Banjo’s dog tag, and I thought it was sweet he had gotten one so soon,” Proper recalled.
However, upon reading the tag, she realized this was no ordinary dog tag—it was a proposal. “It took a moment for the reality to sink in. I couldn’t believe it was happening,” she said. Turning around, she found Stolz on one knee, ready to pop the question.
Proper said “yes,” and the couple shared a tearful and joyous moment. “I was overwhelmed with happiness. It felt like everything in the world was just right,” Stolz remarked. Following the proposal, they shared the news with loved ones and spent the evening cuddling with Banjo, their new furry family member.
Looking ahead, Proper and Stolz are planning their wedding for next year, with Banjo set to play a special role as the ring bearer, marking the beginning of their new life together with the little pup who brought them even closer.