The Unlikely Friendship Between a Duck and a Dog

Justin and Tori Cannarelli of New York have a family that appears quite typical at first glance, consisting of two children, Cameron and Charlie, and a dog. However, they also have an unusual household member: a duck named Louie.

I never expected to own a duck. Never expected him to stay long term, Tori shared.

This intriguing story began when the Cannarellis were searching for a duck for Justin’s garden center. Through Facebook Marketplace, they found Louie, who had hatched in a Long Island elementary school classroom. Instead of taking Louie to the garden center, Tori decided to bring him home.

Louie’s stay was initially thought to be temporary but he quickly became essential for their golden retriever, Barley. A few years back, Barley experienced seizures and was treated with medication, which successfully stopped the seizures. However, the medication led to adverse effects.

She just lost her spunk, Tori explained. She lost her goldenness.

We thought, oh man, this medication we have to give her for the rest of her life, Justin remarked.

Unexpectedly, Louie and Barley developed a strong friendship, with Louie pecking at Barley and Barley chasing Louie. Their bond seemed to rejuvenate Barley’s spirits.

She started smiling again, Tori noted. She started wagging her tail. She started having personality again.

Their son Cameron believes he understands what changed in Barley.

She wanted to be friends with Louie and hang out with him a lot, so she kind of stretched her joy and fit in with him, Cameron theorized.