The Burmese Teddy Bear of West Town

"Is that a bear?" yelled a little girl, no older than five. She glanced up at her mom, then back at the fluffy beast across the street, amazed by its size and jet-black fur.

But this wasn’t a bear. It wasn't even a beast wandering the streets of West Town. This was Reginald, a majestic Burmese Mountain Dog, who was quite used to the attention.

Reginald basked in it each time he ventured from home. Pedestrians and drivers of all ages would stop, stare, and comment on his sheer size.

Reginald, or Reggie to his closest friends, stood as tall as a mountain bike. He strolled through the lush, tree-lined neighborhoods of West Town and Ukrainian Village, adoring every sight, smell, and sound. His claws clicked across the sidewalk like a dapper businessman walking on a marble floor.

Every step was as graceful as a horse prancing across a meadow. Reggie lived joyfully and seemingly carefree. Why seemingly? Because Reggie cared more than you’d think.

He had a heart as big as the city he lived in. If a dog could sense when someone needed a hug or a smile, it was Sir Reginald of West Town. He would stop mid-walk and leap across busy streets if he detected someone needing emotional support. For the right person, he would reach up with his front paws to offer a puppy hug. Whatever he could do to bring a smile to someone’s face, Reggie would do it.

His only other indulgences during city walks were stray chicken bones and big sticks, which he tried to snag as stealthily as possible.

After his neighborhood adventures, Reginald loved to settle in for a nap. He would comfortably sit in his bed, watching cars, pedestrians, and neighboring pups stroll by.

The West Town Teddy Bear had nothing but kindness and love for his community. If you ever cross paths with him, don’t fear! Cubs fans may be everywhere, but actual bears don’t roam Chicago’s streets. The closest you’ll find is Reggie, smiling at you from blocks away, eagerly awaiting a good pat on the head.

About the Author:

Madelyne is a writer and dog walker living in Chicago, Illinois. In her spare time, she combines these passions by telling the stories of her furbaby clients (with their names changed for security purposes). If you're interested in her walking or pet-sitting services, please reach out to her for availability through Rover.

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