In Colorado Springs, Colorado, a French bulldog puppy, merely 10 weeks old, has woven a heartwarming tale of transformation from being a lonely stray to playing a pivotal role in his new owners’ engagement story.
Jason Stolz, an employee at the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region specializing in adoption services, had been contemplating the perfect way to propose to his long-term girlfriend, Julia Proper, for over a year. The couple, who met online three years prior, felt an undeniable connection early in their relationship during a road trip to the Pacific Northwest. “It was during that trip I realized she was the one for me, and I envisioned us together forever,” Stolz shared with KKTV reporter Lindsey Grewe.
Finding true love came naturally to them, but crafting the ideal proposal proved to be a challenge. That is until a small French bulldog named Banjo entered their lives. Banjo was discovered wandering alone on the streets of Colorado Springs 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 the little stray, Stolz felt an instant connection. “He was irresistibly cute,” Stolz remarked. “I knew I wanted to adopt him. Simultaneously, I had been brainstorming proposal ideas, and it struck me that involving Banjo would be the most adorable way to propose, given our shared love for animals.”
Stolz had to wait two weeks before he could take Banjo home due to the puppy’s young age. During this time, he sought Proper’s approval for the adoption. “He kept texting me photos of the puppy at work, insisting on how much he needed him. I was all for it,” Proper recalled.
With the first “yes” secured, Stolz began planning for the crucial second question. He had a dog tag engraved with “Will you marry me?” and discreetly kept it hidden in his work backpack for a week, hoping Proper wouldn’t stumble upon it.
At 8 weeks old, Banjo was ready for adoption and to play his part in the proposal. “The moment he was old enough, we brought him home,” Proper said. “Jason insisted on being the one to bring him home, which was fine by me.”
Unaware of Stolz’s plans, Proper was overjoyed to welcome Banjo. However, her excitement turned to astonishment when Stolz asked her to read the dog tag. “I thought, ‘Oh cool, he already got a dog tag!’ But then I read it – ‘Will you marry me?’ It took a moment for the reality to sink in. I was in disbelief, thinking it was a dream,” Proper recounted.
Stolz, waiting on one knee, received a joyful “yes” from Proper, and the couple shared a celebratory kiss. “I was moved to tears and utterly speechless,” Proper said. “I felt an overwhelming sense of joy, as if everything was perfect in the world,” Stolz added.
Following the proposal, the couple shared the news with their loved ones and spent quality time cuddling in bed with their new puppy. Proper mentioned they are tentatively planning their wedding for the next year, with Banjo set to play the role of ring bearer.