'Goodbye to a legend': Vancouver community mourns passing of beloved barbershop dog, Stella
If you’ve spent any time walking around on Main Street, particularly in the Little Mountain neighbourhood, you’ve likely walked by Paulie’s Barbershop, which means you’ve probably spotted Stella the dog.
Stella, the beloved pooch who was often sunbathing right in the doorway at Paulie’s Barbershop at 4326 Main St., recently passed away, and the tributes are pouring in.
Last year, Paulie’s celebrated being in business for 10 years, a pretty significant feat, especially when you consider the amount of turnover that the neighbourhood has seen.
In our anniversary piece in tribute to the barbershop, Stella was a primary topic of conversation.
Even Paulie’s website states, “The One with the Dog in the Doorway.”
Owner Paul Donnici told us that people recognize Stella, and she’s a reason for folks to take time out of their day to stop by for a chat. She’s also helped to soften the shop’s image.
“She’s slowing down a lot,” Donnici said of Stella when we chatted earlier this year.
She had recently lost an eye, and Donnici said he was not looking forward to the day when they had to say goodbye to the pup. He made the heartbreaking announcement about Stella’s passing on Instagram on Wednesday.
“We said goodbye to a legend last week. After enjoying a plate of meatballs and tearful cuddles, our sweet Stella passed away peacefully, held by her family,” the post said.
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The post added that Stella never ceased to amaze with the amount of joy she would bring to everyone who passed by, “making people feel welcome without ever needing to do more than simply being there.”
“She was a big part of our shop and our community, a huge part of our little family. We miss her so much.”
Stella’s fans came through with nearly 200 comments in tribute to her passing, including:
“We’re all gonna miss this one.”
“Stella was so loved.”
“She was a good dog.”
“Will miss being greeted by the one-eyed legend and soul of the barbershop,” one follower said.
“My favourite ever shop dog,” said another.
Stella has touched countless lives of customers and people just walking by the barbershop over the last decade.
One follower said it all with their simple comment: “The legend lives on forever in our hearts.”
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