Franki

Franki was an English Bulldog with a tongue that never stayed in his mouth, a personality that filled every room, and an ability to make complete strangers feel like they’d known him their whole lives.

He was born on Valentine’s Day 2020 — the only puppy in his litter. From the moment he entered Isaac’s life, he rewrote the rules. The morning massages became non-negotiable. The meal countdowns became performance art. The walks through Domino Park in Brooklyn became a daily parade where Franki held court and accepted love from everyone who passed.

Online, 1.5 million people followed his journey. They watched him growl at dogs on television, refuse to walk on cold mornings, stare at Brooklyn sunsets like a philosopher contemplating eternity. They fell in love with his tongue-out smile — the one that became his signature, the one that said “I’m here, I’m happy, and I’m not putting my tongue away for anyone.”

He was a father figure to Freddi, another English Bulldog who arrived in 2023. Reluctant at first, Franki eventually became the patient, grumbling protector that Freddi needed.

He survived three pneumonia episodes. He fought every time. Until March 28, 2025, when he couldn’t fight anymore.