I hadn’t really planned on getting a french bulldog, but a series of fortunate events saw us welcome this little, big-eared frenchie into our home.
Lulu settled in quite nicely with the rest of the pack, but it was clear from the get-go that she was different. Smarter, stronger, and spryer than our three pugs, she seemed to possess boundless energy, playing relentlessly until she would collapse in a heaving but clearly content heap.
She was also very sneaky. There were times when I would come home to find her standing on the kitchen table, looking guiltily back at me with that “Shit, you’re home early!” look.
And while that adventurous spirit wasn’t always the cause, she WAS a regular at our local vet. Over time, the cone of shame became her trademark accessory.
She was an obsessive gal, enamored of her various toys.
And she developed her stick-fixation at an early age.
Throughout her life, Lulu played hard – but rested even harder.
Particularly in her later years, she loved a good snooze.
She wasn’t huge on walks, especially in her later years, but she did love the sun. She would often park herself by the window and while away the hours soaking up the rays.
Despite her tough girl stature, she was incredibly sensitive.
But an overwhelmingly happy dog.
Her laid-back nature made her a great companion to our cantankerous special needs rescue, Suji, who took a quick liking to her. It helped that in addition to being laid-back, Lulu was infinitely patient.
In her later years, she slowed down significantly, developing hip and spinal issues that made walking difficult. And yet, despite her mobility issues, she remained spirited, spry – and very stubborn.
At twelve and a half years old, she had the distinction of being the oldest frenchie in the neighborhood. And, while she no longer enjoyed the company of other dogs, ignoring them for the most part whenever she encountered one at the park, she loved nothing better than the attention she would receive from passersby.
This morning, Lulu collapsed after finishing her breakfast. I believe she suffered a stroke. We rushed her to the vet only to be told her heart had already stopped beating.
I’ll miss her snoring and determined attempts at sleeping in, the way she would demonstrate her disdain for walks by turning around and immediately heading for home, her brilliant strategy of barking incessantly whenever I was on the phone until I would give her treats to shut her up. But mostly I’ll miss the sweetest french bulldog I have ever known.
Oh Joseph, I’m so sorry to hear the news. Sending love and hugs to you, Akemi, and Suji
Thank you, Monique.
I am so sorry for your loss Joe and Akemi. Your dear Lulu was a force of love and sweetness. Hold her in your hearts.
💕🐾💕
Thanks, Carol.
Condolences for your loss too. Basil sounded like a wonderful kitty.
😱💔😭
I’m so sorry Joe.
When I started to read your new post I had a bad feeling. You will be missed Lulu 🐕 💘 but will be in our ❤️ forever.
Thanks, Nicole.
Joe and Akemi my heart goes out to both of you i know you are both in great pain right now please know that through your blog not only does lulu live on in your memories but because of every page in this blog from your writings she also lives on in ours as well.
With tears.
Shane.
Oh Joe. I’m so terribly sorry. I remember when Lulu arrived into your little doggy family. The cruelest part of loving our four legged friends is that we have to part from them far too soon. My heartfelt sympathies to you, Akemi and Suji.
Stella
Thank you, Stella.
I’m so sorry for your loss! From my family to yours, all the love and comfort we can send. ❤️
Thanks, Rebekah.
I am shocked and saddened. So very sorry. Hugs to Akemi, you and Suji.
Thank you.
So sorry for your loss.
Thank you.
Oh Joe. I’m so sorry. I don’t know what to say except I’m so sorry
Thank you.
Very sorry to hear this, my friend.
Thanks, Gilder.
Ah, Joe, I’m so sorry! I remember when you brought cute little Lulu home, with her giant ears and lovable spunk! They leave us all too soon.
~ LJ
So very true. Thanks.
So very sorry and sad for you, Akemi, and Suji. I remember when you introduced your readers to puppy Lulu and how she stood out from the Pug pack, yet soon fit right in. Twelve years seems too short for such a spirited soul. But she hit the jackpot with you as her parents. I’m thinking of you on this sad day.
Thanks, Michelle.
From Phoenix, my condolences for Lulu.
Thank you.
I am so, so sorry Joe.
I always enjoy the stories & pics of your little motley crew. I appreciate the character all our little family members bring to our lives and enjoy how you and Akemi share the character of yours. Despite the sad feeling of the loss of Lulu in your lives, please remember you guys had brought so much love to hers. I’m very happy she had such a loving family. hugs
Sending you guys love, hugs & warmth thoughts,
Heather
Thank you.
No. Not sweet Lulu. I am so so sorry Joe.
I too remember when she was just a young gal
so full of playful life love and affection.
Through photos and stories and the videos
you so graciously shared over the years
she brought so much joy to us all.
May she live in all our hearts forever.
I know she will live in mine always.
Deepest sympathies to You Akemi & Suji.
Thank you, Drea.
“I guess you don’t really own a dog,
you rent them,
and you have to be thankful
that you had a long lease.” – Joe Garagiola
I’m so sorry for your loss. I know the pain of the loss of a dear pet.
Thanks.
I’m very sorry. 😐😢 I’m so glad you found each other in this life. Sending my sincere condolences. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Thank you.
I’m so very sorry about Lulu. Lots of big hugs for you, Akemi and Suji xxxxx
Thanks, Jane.
Awww. How sad. I’m so sorry for your loss. {{{HUGS}}} to you and Akemi. It sounds like LuLu was an awesome dog. <3
Thanks, Dallas.
So so sorry for your loss, Joe.
Thank you, Shawn.
They fill hole on our soul. And when they leave… A piece of us is incomplete. Our thoughts are with you. Jim
Thanks, Jim.
I am very sorry. Lulu just seemed bigger than life and it is impossible to imagine her no longer here with you. My heart goes out to you and Akemi. I am sure Suji is going to miss her too. Those big personalities sure do make the hole in your heart seem deeper, wider, bottomless but there is truly nothing better than having shared a life with them.
True. Thanks, Sharlene.
I am so sorry for your loss! I know from experience how gut wrenching it is to lose a furry child. Try to remember how much love and fun she brought to your life. She’ll always be with you in your heart. 🐾💕
Thanks, Kelly.
So sorry, to quote Dr. Seuss “Don’t be cry because it’s over, smile because it happened”
Thanks, Kent.
My condolences go out to yourself, Akemi, and Suji! Lulu was a very special Frenchie and she will be missed by all.
Thank you.
I’m so so sorry Joe and Akemi. 💔😢 Lulu will forever be missed. Glad to have known her and spent time with her. She will now spice up the dog heaven.
Thanks.
We are so saddened and sorry for the loss of your beautiful Lulu… May she run over the rainbow 🌈
~Collette, Felix and the Pugs.
Thanks, Collette.
Such sad news Joe. Thinking of you and Akemi.
Thank you.
I’m so very sorry for your loss Joe and Akemi.
Thank you.
I am so very sorry for your loss. I have so loved your Lulu stories over the years. As with all frenchies she was one of a kind. She will be missed. Thank you for letting us enjoy her with you.
Thank you.
I am so sorry for your loss Joe, Akemi, and Suji. Losing a family member is such a sad thing, hopefully the loving memories you all have will be of some comfort during this difficult time.
I have few words to express my sadness at Miss Lulu’s passing. You gave her the best life and she gave you endless joy. Much love to you, Akemi and Suji.
Devastated and heartbroken….I know how you must feel and I send all my heart to you.
When I saw the post first thing in the morning …my heart just broke …💔Joseph Akemi and the one and only Suji I’m so sorry . I know this feeling to well Lulu will watch over you from above now please give Suji lots of love and hugs 😥 so very sorry
Oh no..
I don’t know what to say.
I’m so sorry for your loss.
🙁
I’m sobbing so hard that I can barely see to type. Although I never had the privilege to know Lulu personally, I feel as though I have lost a friend because of your beautiful Sunday posts. My 15-year-old cat died of a heart attack in my arms last month, so my heart breaks for you, Akemi, and Suji, having experienced such a shocking loss myself. We love them like children and we grieve deeply for having loved intensely. My thoughts are with you as you mourn the loss of your baby. Thank you for the lovely post in the midst of your grief.
Condolences to you, Colleen.
I am so sorry to read about the loss of Lulu. You enriched each others’ lives and made hers so much better.
Thank you for sharing the photo tribute to her.
Big hugs to you, Akemi and Suji.
Joe and Akemi,
I am so sorry that you have lost your sweet, beautiful Lulu.
Ah, damn it, Joe. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed your puppers posts, & reading this brought tears to my eyes. All I can think of to say in addition to the standard condolences is: Lulu died in one of the best ways- with a full tummy, joy in her heart, & the eager anticipation of cuddles & a warm spot in the sun. She had a spectacular life with two humans who adored her as much as she adored you. I’m glad you were a part of Lulu’s life. All the hugs to you & Akemi, & gentle scratches & kisses to sweet Suji.
Oh no!! I’m literally in tears right now for her, and for you and Akemi. I remember when you first got her, and I’m so grateful for all of the adventures with, and love for her that you have shared with us. I’m so, so sorry. I cannot imagine the grief you both must be feeling. My heart and thoughts are with you.
In honor of dearest sweetest quirky Lulu
I leave you tonight with this funny childrens book
recommendation about embracing
Belches, Burps & Farts.
It’s one of the funniest things I will always remember and treasure
about her.
So sorry, Joe. I haven’t met any of your little furry ones, but she was my favourite.
Elminster
I’m so sorry :’( I follow on Instagram and have loved following the adventures of sweet Lulu and Suji. It is never easy when a beloved family member leaves us. They definitely take a piece of our heart with them when they go. Lots of love from me and my grumble.
Such a beautiful tribute. She was so loved and she knew it. Hugs to you, Akemi and Suji. Rest peacefully sweetheart.
😢 Chev
Very sorry to read this. You wrote a wonderful tribute to Lulu. I feel like I just lost one of my own pets after reading of her antics all these years. Condolences on your loss.
Joe and Akemi
So very to learn of Lulu passing. Very hard to lose a furry friend. I remember when Lulu came into your life and how crazy she was, always having a toy in her mouth.
Rest in peace Lulu
Much love and hugs to you and Akem
Janet
Akemi and Joe,
So sorry to read of your loss.There’s no doubt that the years she spent with you both, were beyond compare. Having recently lost my best (4 legged) friend, I know how difficult this time can be.
It is, however, nice to think about Lulu’s extended, internet family.. Over the years, through your words and pictures, I feel like I’ve gotten to know the furry side of your family! What a happy crew! So, we’re all with you.during this sad time. Give Suji and Akemi a hug from us.
I love reading this story of Lulu’s life and your love for her – love it to tears. I’m so sorry for this sudden loss. Our fur babies..their unconditional love, companionship, their “big” place in our family story…and the unforgettable memories they provide.
So sorry for your loss. You gave her a great life. Thanks for sharing her with us, and deepest condolences to you, Akemi, Suji, and everyone who loved her.
I so hoped your post wasn’t going to take that turn at the end. I’m so very sorry for your loss.
So sorry for your loss Joe. It is the greatest joy to love and get unconditional love from our fur babies but so sad that their lives are so short. You gave Lulu a great life and lots of love. My prayers are with you.
So sorry for the loss of your beloved Lulu. RIP LULU 😢🌈🐾
hugs
I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you.
I’m so, so sorry, Joe! 🙁 🙁 🙁
Joe, I am so incredibly sorry for your loss. I know how much you love your dogs. I can’t think of a single person that would make a better dog-dad than you, so know that she had the best life any dog could ever hope for.
I’m so sorry 🙁 Your tribute to her is beautiful. Goodbye sweet Lulu, you are loved and missed.
I’m really at a loss of words. Just know I’m sending hugs and love to hopefully ease your pain. It’s so hard to lose a family member and especially so suddenly. I’m truly sorry.
So sorry to hear about Lulu. My heart goes out to you and your wife.
I’m so sorry you and Akemi had to say goodbye to Lulu..💔 She and Suji made for an amazing double act.. RIP Lulu..💖🐾🌈
Aww, so sad to hear about dear Lulu. After Maximus she was my favorite of your bunch. 😢😥
I never realised how long I’ve been lurking on your blog, very occasionally posting, but I do remember when Lulu entered your life. I’m so very sorry to read she passed away. I hope you can take comfort in the fact she had a great life with you, and probably suffered very little in the end (and throughout her life even though riddled with vet visits, thanks to your TLC).
My heartfelt condolences to you, Akimi and Suji. It’s so hard to lose a family member. But I can’t think of a better way to go than to have a good night’s sleep, a nice breakfast, and then nothing. No pain, no suffering, no indignities, just gone. Sweet Lulu will be missed by all of us here on the blog. Thank you for giving us the pleasure of knowing her.
I am just knocked sideways by that news Joe – so so sorry.
I’m thinking of you and the family.
Gillian
Sorry to hear the news. It is always difficult, but at least it was in a flash and not from having to bring her in. I have memories of her and the other ensemble when I began perusing your web site. Their stories are/were knowable.
Awww, so sorry to hear. Her energy is endless across the rainbow bridge. I have no doubt that you will feel her presence in all the familiar places.
I’m so sorry. I knew, instinctively, as soon as I saw the title of your post. I didn’t want to open it. My heart hurts for you, losing a friend is never easy. <3
RIP Lulu!
Really sorry for your loss Joe & Akemi. 💐😭
I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. Lulu was a vibrant little being, thank you for sharing her life with us, for letting us fall in love with her too. Sending much love to you, Akemi, and Suji.
I am so sorry for your loss. I know she will forever stay in your memories. She had a great life with you and lived it to the fullest. Not many dogs get as old as this little bigger <3
Sorry for your loss! Lulu was an adorable dog and you both showered her with love like you have done with all of your dogs. May she rest in peace!
My condolences to you both. It’s heartbreaking to lose a family member. Much love.
I’m very sorry to hear this. My condolences to both of you.
I am so sorry. Lulu was such a special girl. My heart goes out to you guys. <3
I didn’t want to read your full post because I was afraid of the ending. I’m so very sorry for your lost! Having fostered and rescued many cats and dogs over the years, I know the pain of losing a furbaby all too well. She lives on in your hearts, and through your blog. She will be missed by many!❤️🙏🌹
Joe and Akemi, I am so sorry to hear about Lulu, she was amazing! She will always be with you. and I won’t forget either, All your furbabies make a lasting impression thru your sharing, thanks for that.
~Judy
I’m sorry you lost a beloved companion.
Now that I have gone back to see the blog about Lulu, I realize she and Cosmo could have been sisters. So much of Lulu’s behavior mirrors my very own little Girl. Even though I never met Lulu, I feel the pain and have shed tears for her. I know someday I too will have to say goodbye to my Cosmo. I used to say I did not want pets because of the pain of eventually saying goodbye. Now, having Cosmo in my life, how could I ever have known the joy she brings me every day had I not said yes to a pet. RIP Lulu, you had a wonderful life with two very special people.
I remember when Lulu came to live with you. So sorry to hear she’s passed away. She had an amazing life with you.
I’m just now seeing this. I’m so sorry for your loss.
Thank you.
Oh, Joe. I’m just catching up and I’m so sorry to hear about Lulu. Much love to you and Akemi. ❤
Thank you.