Ottawa might be best known for its landmarks and politics, but the city has quietly become home to some truly unforgettable pets who accidentally turned into local celebrities. From viral internet stars to tail wagging icons on city streets, here’s a look at five beloved Ottawa pets who have captured hearts far beyond their neighbourhoods.
Photo Credits: Crusoe the Celebrity Dachshund
Crusoe the Dachshund
An early pioneer of pet fame, Crusoe turned costume photography into an art form. Whether dressed as a pirate, chef or tiny superhero, this long-haired dachshund’s expressive face and quirky charm made him an internet darling. Crusoe’s playful adventures quickly translated into books, calendars and a global social media following, all rooted in his unmistakable personality.
Smudge the Meme Cat
You’ve seen him. White cat. Dinner table. Confused expression. Smudge became a central figure in the “Woman Yelling at a Cat” meme that took over the internet, turning a simple photo into one of the most recognizable meme templates of the last decade. While Smudge never asked for fame, his face became part of social media history, connecting people through shared laughter.
Photo Credits: Sir George Sighting Society
Sir George the St. Bernard
Sir George isn’t just another big dog strolling through town, he’s a local icon. Often seen riding with his head out the sunroof and making friends with strangers on the street, this gentle St. Bernard’s relaxed attitude and warm presence made him a regular on social feeds and in community stories. He’s the kind of dog whose mere appearance can brighten someone’s day.
Photo Credits: Ed the Cat Ed Facebook
Ed the Cat
There’s something about Ed that struck a chord online. A video featuring him went viral not because of costume or stunt, but simply through his unphased groovy moves. The nonchalant cat being forced to dance by his owner in a short but viral TikTok made Ed a memorable face in Ottawa’s online pet scene.
Photo Credits: Cats and Kittens Facebook
Biggie Smalls (Axel)
Biggie Smalls isn’t famous for dress-ups or memes, he’s famous for resilience. When he arrived at a shelter weighing an astonishing 43.2 pounds, his health risks were serious, but his personality was impossible to ignore. Caring for him and documenting his weight loss journey inspired the creation of The Big House Sanctuary & Rehab, a rescue dedicated to helping extremely overweight cats. Today, Biggie serves as the sanctuary’s ambassador, still working toward a healthier weight but also helping new arrivals feel safe and loved. His journey is one of hope, second chances and the idea that even the biggest challenges can be overcome.
These pets each became more than just animals on a screen or walking down a street, they became companions, symbols, and reminders of the joy, resilience and connection that animals bring into our lives.
