Local Lab, King, a mature dog and seasoned actor off the screen, strikes a convincing hero pose
The annual football Super Bowl is a phenomenon of American culture like no other. There’s something for everyone; sports fan or not. The event is also a pinnacle of music entertainment showcasing the best known singers and showmen, and even a show place for the most clever marketing appeals. Those watching might dream of one day playing in such a game, singing in such an arena, or in some way emulating those seen on the screen during the event.
And if your family counts a yellow Lab in its number, that pup may also see a hero on the screen worthy of emulating. Consider the latest Budweiser beer commercial that features the Clydesdale horses have become annual stars of the company’s ad time. Invariably a doggo also has a part.
In the story line, a severe snow storm impacts the planned highway delivery of beer kegs to a pub, forcing delivery using a Clydesdale team and wagon. As the snow and plot thickens, a hero dog at the pub senses that the horses need help finding their way. The yellow Lab races to meet them and lead them on. A happy ending for the horses, drivers, dog, and especially the pub’s beer drinkers.
We reached out to the star, Owen, who lives where all the big stars live, near Los Angeles, CA, in Acton, with his trainer. Now six years old, earlier in life In need of rescue, his potential was recognized by the animal training agency which took him into their family. Budweiser says he was selected for the role based “on his looks and experience.” A willing performer, Owen has done other national marketing ads, including for Subaru, Walmart, Hilton, BarkBox, and he appeared on the TV show “Shrinking” on Apple TV; also starring Harrison Ford. When not working, he lives a normal dog’s life. That is if your dog normally enjoys the run of the house and all the family comforts. Like many celebrities, Owen could not be reached for comment.
What self respecting Lab wouldn’t aspire to be just like that T.V. dog, using its skills and coming to the rescue to make everyone happy? We interviewed two such local yellow Labs, Bogey, 1 1/2 years old, and King, 10 years old, to assess their skills and readiness for television hero work.
Young Bogey could be a dead ringer for Owen, with the same size and coloring. He’s part of the Beletsky family of Springfield. Bogey trains for whatever life may bring with daily long walks at Burke Lake Park trails and afternoon play dates with his doggo pals near Lake Mercer. As a young pup he’s never tasted beer or met any horse, let alone a huge Clydesdale, but his confidence is such that he could likely take such a meeting in stride. He’s never met a person or dog he doesn’t like. He can strike a pose with the best of them and is surely star material.
King, though older, has maintained his enthusiasm for life and trail walks. He lives with Jess Copland in Lorton and frequents Laurel Hill Park. While his pace might have slowed and he might have difficulty with the running in rescue scenes, his nose is fine tuned, with expertise in finding any treats in his vicinity. He has tasted beer in moderation, though has no favorite brand. As for acting chops, his death faint is impressive; sure to win notice on any casting call. His preference actually may be to perform his signature move, and all his moves, on the casting couch.
We can all dream. Some of us do it while thumping a tail.