#NHLPeachy #PeachysPetPals #BarkAndreFurry @NHL #WhomYouKnow Exclusive Interview from Las Vegas with Bark Andre Furry @BarkAndreFurry @GoldenKnights Our Coverage Sponsored by Cosmopolitan Dental, Official Dentist of Whom You Know @GaroNazarianDDS #cosmopolitandental #loveyoursmile Happy 10th Birthday Bark Andre Furry!
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Those eyes… That smile… The face… Move over Elvis Impersonators, there’s a new star in Las Vegas! Bark-Andre Furry is the adorable nearly 10-year old Jack Russell Terrier (he has papers to prove it) who is fast becoming the 4-legged darling of Sin City. His persona name is a direct tribute to star Vegas Golden Knights goalie Marc-André Fleury, and the fans, team, and community have embraced him with open arms. This pup has walked the red carpet at the NHL awards, was awarded ESPN's "NHL Doggo of the Year - 2018", plus has taken center stage on various Las Vegas News stations and the NHL Network. Not only that, a plush toy in his honor is currently in development (Christmas is just around the corner!).
The activity, fame, and social media around Bark keeps his owner (aka “Biped”), Rick Williams, on his toes. Rick says, “He’s a popular dog who loves people and being social. As any good parent would, I support him by devoting myself to his activities. While it takes time and energy, it’s totally worth it to see Bark and the people of Las Vegas so happy.”
As a small pup (whelp date 8-15-08), Bark was brought to Las Vegas by a well-meaning couple as a companion for their young Jack Russell Terrier. Bark-Andre learned that life is like a box of chocolates… you never know what you’re going to get. As with many sibling rivalries, the older dog didn’t take to the new family member, so Rick rescued him from the unhealthy situation. Intending to only foster the pup, Rick went to work to find him a new home. It didn’t take long for he and his dog, Hannah, to fall in love and adopt him. They named him Fenway Williams (Rick is Boston-born and a diehard Red Sox fan). Sister Hannah has since crossed the rainbow bridge, and the now-family of two are inseparable. He’s been lovingly cared for by Rick for 9.3 years now.
The name Bark-André Furry came to him at the beginning of the Vegas Golden Knights NHL season. According to Fenway, “I watched every Golden Knights game on TV with my Dad and became kind of obsessed with the puck and sticks. The action and constant movement of the puck hooked me quick”.
Now that Hockey Season is over (we’ll get them next year Vegas Golden Knights!), Bark-André has been busy with visits to the LVMPD 911 Dispatch Center, Sunrise Children’s Hospital pediatric ward, and attending most every community-rich event in his home town.
What makes Bark so perfectly suited at being a four-legged ambassador is his breed. Jack Russell Terriers are extremely energetic with an inherent need to do a job. While some could view his single-digit “prick ear” as less than desirable, those who know him would beg to differ. This feature only helps to give him a quirky, adorable look and besides, nobody’s perfect, right? He is often mistaken for a Westie because he’s pure white with no spotting. You’ll occasionally find him napping on the sofa of his “dog cave” amongst the sports memorabilia and toy friends, but for the most part, Bark is ready to jump into the truck with head out the window, ready for his next Las Vegas adventure.
Bark’s Facebook “About” page describes him as “a Vegas Golden Knights Fan, Singer of songs, and lover of life!”. So true Bark-André Furry, so very true. We are absolutely thrilled to present Bark Andre Furry as our latest Peachy's Pet Pal! Peachy Deegan interviewed Bark for Whom You Know.
Peachy Deegan:
What do you love most about Marc-Andre Fleury?
Bark Andre Furry:
Marc-André as his friends call him, is a lover of life, enjoys the game of hockey, he’s quick with a smile, and never takes himself too seriously. He’s the Jack Russell Terrier of NHL goalies!
Tell us why he might be your favorite player.
There is no “might be” about it, Marc-André is my favorite player. He’s a leader among bipeds, and always seems happy. He reminds me of… me!
Tell us about the times when you have met Marc-Andre please.
I’ve only had the pleasure of meeting Marc-André one time, but it’s a day I’ll never forget. In the middle of our playoff run, he asked the Golden Knights to arrange our meeting after his wife noticed the picture of me on the NHL Instagram page sporting my Bark-André #29 sweater. During our 15-minute meeting we talked a little hockey (we had just swept the LA Kings in round-1) and shared a few laughs. He autographed my sweater and then I wished him well in round-2.
Who are your other favorite Las Vegas Golden Knights and why?
Pierre-Edouard Bellemare and Alex Tuch jump to mind because they’ve both have taken time to have their pictures taken with me. On that list would also be Deryk Engelland, for it was he that delivered the speech at our home-opener following the events of October 1, 2017. To this day, I can’t watch the video without tearing up. The Golden Knights provided light in our city’s darkest hour.
What songs do you like to sing?
I love to take songs and change the words to help rally our team. “Happy Days are Here Again”, “Mack-the-Knife”, “Sweet Caroline”, to name a few. I’m already working on songs for next season.
Did you used to watch the Red Sox games and do you still watch them now?
Used to? Still do, although with our run in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, I wasn’t able to watch many games until recently… except for Yankees/Red Sox games. My neighbor “Jeter the dog” and I get together during those games. We love a good rivalry.
What do you love about the Red Sox and did you know Peachy is the only girl that wrote for Boston Baseball?
Love for a team, as well as love for baseball, is generational. I love the Red Sox as my biped loves the Red Sox, as his biped (my grand-biped) loves the Red Sox, and so on. I enjoy any game that involves chasing after something or someone. When I found out that Peachy wrote for the Red Sox, my first reaction was to burst out in a chorus of #DirtyWater. I knew then that Peachy and I would be good friends.
Have you been to Fenway Park and seen the Green Monster?
I’ve never been to Fenway Park, my only encounter has been watching the Red Sox on television, and stories my biped has shared. As for the “Green Monster”, I do own a “Wally the Green Monster” plushie that I chew on from time-to-time. Does that count?
What surprises you most about being a celebrity?
People now recognize me without my uniform (it might be my ear that gives me away). Sometimes when I’m at the park or shopping at the Farmer’s Market with the biped, people will stop me to ask if I’m Bark-André and request a pawtograph.
What do you enjoy most about being a celebrity?
I don’t view myself as a celebrity, more of a dog about town. If I had to pick one thing it would be the treats! People are always offering to bake me cookies or bring me treats. The beef jerky is my favorite.
How do you sign autographs?
The biped had my pawprint digitized and then transferred to a self-inking stamp. It’s a huge time saver, since I lack an opposable thumb, and find it uncomfortable to have a pen taped to my leg.
What should the world know about your biped, Rick?
He’s kind and giving of his time. He accommodates my philanthropic endeavors and makes sure I’m always on time.
Is he your agent or do you have an agent too?
My agent? No. He’s best described as my companion, cook, and chauffeur. I don’t have an agent at this time, nor have I been approached. I don’t worry about such things. My time is best spent serving my community.
What kinds of deals are you looking to negotiate?
I’m currently working on producing a plush toy in my image, a percentage of sales to be given to animal charities. If I could, I’d like to be able to give back to the game of hockey to ensure that everyone that would like to play has the opportunity.
What is your favorite moment in the history of hockey?
Keep in mind that hockey history for me is only two-years old. Number one would be that day in June 2016 when the NHL granted Mr. Foley and the city of Las Vegas our franchise. Little did we know at the time how much this team would mean to the people of Las Vegas.
What do you think will clinch the Stanley Cup for Las Vegas in future days?
After speaking with Mr. Foley a few weeks back, I’m convinced that the Vegas Golden Knights will win the Cup within the next three years. It is Mr. Foley’s determination, and the determination and commitment of the entire organization to winning, that will bring the Stanley Cup to Las Vegas.
Has dog food ever been eaten out of the Cup, and if Las Vegas wins it would you like to eat out of it or drink Champagne?
During an interview with the NHL Network, it was pointed out to me that dog food has indeed been eaten from the Cup and that I might want to set my sights a little higher. If given the chance, I’d like to take it a step further (not Alex Ovechkin further) by taking a champagne bath in the cup! I doubt any NHL player has been able to bathe in the Cup.
How many plastic flamingoes do you own and do you name them?
I own one plastic flamingo, it resides in a house plant inside my dog-cave.
If so what are their names?
“Victoria el Flamenco”
What was it like to win an ESPN award?
In an article by Greg Wyshynski, ESPN, dated June 15, 2018 titled “The Alternative NHL Awards for 2017-18” I was honored to be named “Doggo of the Year”! While this might not get me elected to the NHL Hall of Fame, it was humbling to receive such recognition when considering some of the great hockey dogs that might have been chosen such as @OvieTheBulldog or @GustlTweets.
Do you have any impersonators in life or on the internet?
Impersonators no, at least none that I’m aware of. There are a few hockey dogs with similar names such as Marc-Andre Fleury, Bark Fleury, Bark Andrea Flirty. Given the popularity of Marc-André it’s not surprising, and if someone should choose to name their biped or pet after me, I would consider it a great honor.
Are you going to be a Flamingo for Halloween?
I’m usually tasked with handing out candy to the little bipeds that come to my door on Halloween. I suppose I could dress up this year, perhaps as Brad Marchand? I certainly have the tongue for it.
Are the flamingoes of Las Vegas going to be you for Halloween?
I’d like to think so, but our “Victory Flamingo” will be in St. Louis preparing for our game with the Blues on November 1. I doubt that Coach Gallant will allow her to go “trick-or-treating” the night before a big game.
What or who has had the most influence on your pursuit of excellence?
Mark Twain wrote “Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear, and the blind can see.” I think about that a lot, and how with a bit of effort I can make someone’s day a little better.
What are you proudest of and why?
Through my activities and personal appearances, I have provided my biped the vehicle he’s needed to volunteer in our community.
What is your favorite toy and why?
Usually, it’s the one some little biped is holding at Golden Knights practice that I can’t have. But at home I have a “Chance NHL” stuffie (the Golden Knights mascot), and a vintage tennis ball that I’ve been slobbering on for years.
What do you get in trouble for and why is that not fair?
It’s not trouble so much as embarrassment for the biped. Due to my close proximity to the ground and my love of body lotion, I’m often found sampling lotion from random legs as I walk through a crowd. It draws some strange reactions from people as they jump to see who’s licking their legs.
What do you take your sense of identity from?
I have a painted piece of wood in my dog-cave with the words of the Lorax: “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” I like to think I make things, and life around me, a little bit better.
What is your favorite place to be?
Aside from my dog-cave, may favorite place to be is City National Arena, the practice facility of the Vegas Golden Knights. I love spending time with fellow Knights fans, and enjoy the adrenaline rush of a live sporting event.
What is the funniest thing that has ever happened to you at a cocktail party?
I’ve been known to indulge in a Bowser Beer when socializing. On one such occasion, the Bowser Beer didn’t agree with the aperitif and I may, or may not have, used the purse of my bipeds’ friend to relieve my discomfort.
Who would you like to be for a day and why?
Hard question. I suppose Ricky Bobby, Bark likes to go fast!
What has been your best athletic experience?
Personally, I’m not much of an athlete. Unlike my Jack Russell Terrier counterparts, I don’t run fast, I don’t have much bounce, and I don’t enjoy exerting myself unless absolutely necessary. That being said, I do like to join in street hockey games with the little bipeds in the neighborhood. They play keep away from Bark, and I enjoy the company.
If you could have dinner with any person or animal living or passed, who would it be and why?
Living, Emmylou Harris. She’s been rescuing dogs in Nashville since 2004. Her organization, Bonaparte’s Retreat, rescues dog whose time has run out at local shelters, and who, without her help would be put down. Also, Bark would love to hear her sing in person!
Passed, Moose the dog, aka “Eddie” on Fraiser. I like the cut of his jib, and I’m certain he could offer invaluable career advice.
What should the world know about your canine pal, Sir Winston?
Winston and I have been buddies for about three months; we met at a Golden Knights “send-off” party during round-1 of the playoffs. He loves doing tricks for people, and I believe he has a lot of potential to become a great hockey dog. I’ve taken him by the paw, and even introduced him to my tailor so he can get fitted for a custom jersey. He needs to look his best for our B.Y.O.B. (bring your own bowl) doggo cotillion we’re co-hosting in September, to help raise money for Las Vegas pets in need.
What has been your best art or music experience?
A few years back, my biped brought me on an adventure to see the Pacific Ocean (I had never seen the ocean). During that same trip to Los Angeles, he brought me along to see Melody Gardot at the Orpheum Theatre. We ended up second row, center stage, it was like she was singing just for me. I love me some Melody!
What do you personally do or what have you done to give back to the world?
I came into this world knowing how to love, and to love unconditionally. That’s what I know, that’s what I do, that’s what I give. Nothing more.
Other than Peachy's Pet Pals of course, what is your favorite WhomYouKnow.com column and what do you like about it?
Movers and Shakers! Niki J. Crawford is my favorite! I listen to her at home (she has a voice that makes my tail twitch), but I never knew that she grew up in a small town in Louisiana, and has even appeared in movies. It was great getting to know her.
Have you been to Manhattan and if not what would you like to do if the NHL invites you to their offices on Sixth Avenue?
I have not been to Manhattan, although the biped has visited two or three times. If invited, my first stop would be the NHL office to personally thank and take pictures with everyone at their offices.
What else would you like to do in Manhattan?
See a Broadway play, take a Hansom Cab ride, go to the top of the Empire State Building, etc. I’d also like the opportunity to poop in Central Park. While this might not seem like a big deal to a NYC pup, it would provide me bragging rights with my K-9 friends in Vegas and on Instagram. I’d also like to visit the William Secord Museum; word on the street is that they allow dogs to roam freely while viewing the art.
What should everyone know about the City of Las Vegas?
We are more than The Strip! Rent a car when you come to Las Vegas and explore. Within an hour you can be skiing on Mt Charleston (winter), boating on Lake Mead, touring the Hoover Dam, hiking Red Rock Canyon, or exploring the Valley of Fire State Park.
What should everyone know about the Golden Knights?
The organization is first rate from top to bottom. We have a team philosophy, with no one individual bigger than the team, and therefore all are accountable to the team.
What can you tell us about your upcoming plush toy?
It’s amazing! I just saw the prototypes and the resemblance is uncanny - right down to my funny ear! The hope is to have it available prior to the start of the 2018-19 NHL season, with a portion of sales being donated to local animal foundations.
What do you have planned for your birthday on August 15th?
It being my tenth birthday, a milestone for any dog, I hope to enjoy dinner out at my favorite restaurant Lazy Dogs (they have a dog menu), surrounded by all of my friends - both two and four legged.
What are your future dreams and aspirations?
Aside from bathing in the Stanley Cup, I’d like to meet the University of Georgia’s mascot “UGA”. I’d also like to see a cartoon version of me on a shirt! That would be cool!
What else should Whom You Know readers know about you?
I love throwing on my sweater and assuming the role of Bark-André Furry as much as I enjoy being Fenway. Like an actor playing a part, I’m able to differentiate between the two, and I love that I’m able to bring so many people such joy.
How would you like to be contacted by Whom You Know readers?
I can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @BarkAndreFurry, Facebook at: www.facebook.com/barkandre or soon on my website: www.barkandrefurry.com
