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It was supposed to be a typical adoption story, but when the founders of Canine Journal first laid eyes on a lovable pup named Rudolph on the Forsyth Humane Society website, they couldn’t get past the odd name. Rudolph? As in the red-nosed reindeer? They thought the name was just a festive placeholder. So they renamed him Barley—a nod to their love of craft beer and his goofy, lovable personality.
However, weeks later, the reason for his original name became shockingly clear. After spending an afternoon outside in the sun, Barley trotted back inside, and that’s when his owners noticed something jaw-dropping: his nose had turned bright red! Yes, Rudolph-level red. They couldn’t believe their eyes.
It turns out that Barley is susceptible to sunburn, specifically on his sensitive nose. Without sunscreen, his snout lights up, resembling Santa’s beloved reindeer. “It was wild,” the family shared. “One minute, he’s our goofy Barley, the next, he’s auditioning for a holiday special!”
Although the name Rudolph didn’t stick, his new owners still recognized the irony of his glowing nose. They’ve since made sunscreen on his nose a non-negotiable part of Barley’s outdoor adventures, ensuring he doesn’t become a real-life holiday mascot.
Despite the surprising discovery, Barley has embraced his festive fate, with his owners jokingly calling him “Barley the Red-Nosed Pup” during the holiday season.
Perhaps the shelter staff had known about Barley’s Rudolph-like condition all along? Or was this a freaky coincidence destined to bring a little extra holiday cheer?
Barley doesn’t seem to mind the red-nose attention. And while he may not guide Santa’s sleigh, he’s undoubtedly lighting up his family’s world in the best way possible, especially around Christmas.
Would you rename a dog if you discovered their nose glows like Rudolph? Or would you embrace the holiday magic? Let us know below!
If you are getting in the Christmas spirit like Barley often does, you will love these dog holiday movie favorites and some of our favorite dog cookie recipes. You may also be looking for the right gift for your furry friend, and Barley strongly recommends a monthly subscription to BarkBox to keep your pup set with new toys on a regular schedule.
Do you have a great dog story to share with the Canine Journal readers? Please share it with us in the comments or via our contact form to get your pup on the wait list for our must-read pup stories!
