Every dog has their day and on Sunday in Miami, the Marlins made sure that it was Jonah’s.
Jonah, a six-year-old Cunucu, went viral last month during a Bark at the Park event hosted by the Marlins during which fans can bring their canine companions out to LoanDepot Park.
Jonah was caught on camera looking forlornly at another dog who was being treated to a hot dog by its owners and quickly went viral on social media.
After the clip blew up, the Marlins endeavoured to find the suddenly popular pup, posting ‘wanted’ ads on social media.
Three weeks later, Jonah was back in the spotlight and received the royal treatment during Sunday’s game between the Marlins and Cleveland Guardians.
What did Jonah do on his Dream Day?
Before the game, Jonah and his owner, Peter Silveira, came down on the field to play a bit of catch with some new plush baseballs and dog toys, and then threw out the ceremonial first pitch – well, Silveira did.
Jonah also received his own customized black Marlins jersey and then came the real treat: A suite to watch the game from with friends and family.
Marlins field reporter Jeremy Tache joined the group for an interview and while Jonah didn’t get to eat a hot dog of his own — Tache explained the dog has a sensitive stomach — he did get some hot dog treats instead.
During an “interview” for Marlins TV during the fourth inning, Tache said that Jonah had shared who his favourite Marlins players were.
Tache reported that Jonah’s favourite players are Griffin Conine “because it sounds like canine,” Reese Hinds because “he also has hind legs” and Otto Lopez because Otto “has that dog in him.”
“He’s had a really great day, getting lots of love,” Tache said. “He’s a total sweetheart, I mean what a well-behaved puppy.
“Good boy, by definition.”
To cap things off, many other animals benefitted from Jonah’s special day at the park, too.
For Sunday’s game, the Marlins had launched a special ticket offer with proceeds benefiting Miami Animal Rescue — a non-profit, foster-based service helping abandoned animals in South Florida.