In Colorado Springs, Colorado, a French bulldog puppy, merely 10 weeks old, has woven a heartwarming tale 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 pondering over the perfect way to propose to his longtime girlfriend, Julia Proper, for 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. I knew we were meant to spend our lives together,” Stolz shared with KKTV reporter Lindsey Grewe.
Finding true love came effortlessly to them, but crafting the ideal proposal proved to be a challenge. That is until a tiny French bulldog named Banjo entered their lives. Banjo’s journey began tragically; he was abandoned on the streets, left to fend for himself without his mother or siblings. At just 6 weeks old, he was found wandering the sidewalks of Colorado Springs. Fortunately, a kind-hearted individual rescued him and brought him to the very place where Stolz worked.
The moment Stolz saw the little stray, it was as if fate had struck. “He was irresistibly cute,” Stolz recalled. “I immediately knew I wanted to adopt him. Plus, I had been searching for a unique way to propose to Julia, and it all just clicked. We both share a profound love for animals, making this the perfect proposal plan.”
Before bringing Banjo home, Stolz had to wait two weeks due to the puppy’s young age. He used this time to ensure Julia was on board with the adoption. “He kept texting me photos of the puppy at work, saying how much he needed him. I couldn’t help but agree,” Julia recounted.
With Julia’s approval for the adoption, Stolz began orchestrating his proposal plan. He had a dog tag engraved with “Will you marry me?” and discreetly kept it hidden in his work backpack for a week, anxious Julia might discover it prematurely.
Finally, at 8 weeks old, Banjo was ready to be adopted and assist in the proposal. “The moment he was old enough, we went to pick him up. Jason insisted on being the one to bring him home,” Julia said, unaware of the surprise awaiting her.
Stolz picked up both Banjo and the engagement ring while Julia was at work. He set up a camera at home, preparing for what he described as “one of the biggest moments of my life.”
Upon her return, Stolz handed Julia the puppy, and her excitement was palpable. It wasn’t until he prompted her to check the dog tag that she realized the magnitude of the moment. “At first, I thought it was cool he got the tag so quickly. But then I read it, and it hit me – this wasn’t just any dog tag. This was a proposal,” Julia expressed, overwhelmed by emotion. “For a moment, I thought I was dreaming.”
Turning around, she found Stolz on one knee. Overcome with joy, she said yes, and the couple shared a tearful embrace.
“I was speechless, just crying tears of happiness,” Julia said, reflecting on the moment. “Everything felt perfect,” Stolz added.
Following the proposal, the couple shared their joyous news with loved ones and celebrated with their new furry family member. They are now eagerly planning their wedding, with Banjo set to play a special role as the ring bearer, looking forward to a future filled with love and companionship.