An Olympian’s BFF: meet the pups of Team USA & Team Canada
Ever wondered what life is like for the four-legged friends of our favorite Olympians? These pups are the biggest (yet smallest) cheerleaders of their athletic human companions, who will be vying for gold in events like gymnastics, swimming, wrestling and more. As their parents gear up to compete in the Paris Summer Olympic Games, let’s meet the furry family members behind the world-class athletes.
Simone Biles and Lilo & Rambo
With 30 Olympic and World Championship medals to her name, gymnastics superstar Simone Biles is known for being “the GOAT.” But when she’s not in the gym, she’s a total softie for her two charming French Bulldogs, Lilo and Rambo. These playful pups bring joy to her life and even have their own social media presence where we (and over 70K fans!) can follow their adventures. Whether it’s chilling poolside or watching Simone do her signature double back layout with a half twist, Lilo and Rambo are always there. As Simone says, “a house is not a home without Frenchies.”
Simone’s love for animals doesn’t stop with her own pets. She’s a dedicated advocate for animal welfare, raising money and awareness for the Abandoned Animal Rescue shelter in her hometown of Houston.
Caeleb Dressel and Jane
Swimmer Caeleb Dressel is ready to add to his impressive collection of Olympic gold medals (he’s already won seven!), but no matter what happens in Paris, he knows he’ll get the warmest of welcomes from his best friend when he returns home: his black Lab, Jane. Proof that these two are a match made in heaven? Jane seems to love swimming just as much as her dad — check out her skills in action!
Gabby Thomas and Rico
Track and field star Gabby Thomas won silver and bronze medals in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, but to her rescue pug, Rico, she’s always a winner.
Since joining Gabby in 2021, Rico has been there through every sprint, win and challenge. Between intense training sessions, Gabby finds comfort and happiness with Rico by her side. He even keeps Gabby’s lap warm during interviews, providing support while staying strategically out of view from the cameras. (Though you may not see him on TV, Rico is clearly a star.)
Ryan Crouser and Koda
Meet the dynamic duo of the shot put world: Ryan Crouser and his black Lab, Koda. Ryan, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and world-record holder, credits much of his success to the unwavering support of his loyal training buddy.
Koda isn't just a pet; she's a vital part of Ryan's routine. Whether she’s helping out in practice sessions or enjoying games of fetch and weekend fishing trips, Koda is clearly Ryan’s #1 fan.
Helen Maroulis and Chip
In the world of wrestling, where every match and training session is a test of endurance, Helen Maroulis – the first American woman to snag Olympic gold in the sport – finds her zen with her adorable Havanese mix, Chip.
Chip has been with Helen through every grueling workout, victory and match. When Helen faced head injuries and the subsequent recovery that required extensive therapy, Chip was her rock. This little furball isn’t a homebody; he’s traveled the nation and the world with Helen, making every journey brighter.
Bobby Finke and Brewster
What does Olympic gold medalist Bobby Finke do when he’s not in the pool? He spends time with his biggest cheerleader: Brewster, a lovable German Shepherd and Golden Retriever mix who has been part of the Finke family since 2017. Bobby, known for his epic, last-minute surges in the 800m and 1500m freestyle at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, often credits Brewster with helping him stay grounded and motivated. After long days of training and racing, Bobby finds solace in taking Brewster for walks in the park and spending some well-deserved down time together.
Bianca Andreescu and Coco
You may already recognize Bianca Andreescu’s Toy Poodle, Coco, from her appearances in the stands during her mom’s tennis matches. Coco was notably in the audience during the 2019 U.S Open, where Bianca made history that year as the first Canadian tennis player to win a singles title. Next on Bianca’s list of milestones? Making her Olympic debut in Paris.
Coco has kept Bianca company on and off the tennis court over the years, traveling with to sites like Miami, LA, NY and Monte Carlo. Not only does Coco often hang out courtside, but she’s even made cameos in Bianca’s interviews. As she’s clearly no stranger to traveling the world, we’ll be keeping an eye out for a glimpse of Coco’s fluffy brown fur in the stands throughout the summer games.
RJ Barrett and Kingston (& more!)
RJ Barrett can usually be seen on the court with the Toronto Raptors, but he’ll be taking his skills to Paris for his first Olympics appearance this summer, competing with Team Canada in men’s basketball. You might think traveling for all those games would make it hard to be a pet parent, but RJ has a major weakness for French Bulldogs. He brought home Kingston as a puppy in 2020, and since then he’s added three more Frenchies to his personal squad. Now that’s what we call a cuddle puddle! Here’s a question: is it considered an advantage to have four French Bulldogs when the Olympics are in France?
Tammara Thibeault and Rocky
Canadian boxer Tammara Thibeault missed out on a medal in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, but she hasn’t lost a single fight since then, so you better believe she’s going for gold at the Paris games. Tammara brings a stuffed bear named Groot to every match as part of a superstition, but she has an even better lucky charm at home in her dog, Rocky.
Tammara relies on Rocky to keep her grounded between matches, and loves to spend time exploring with her pup as a way to take care of her mental health.. And when it comes to celebrating her success, she’d rather be home walking her dog than anywhere else.
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The Dig, Fetch Pet Insurance's expert-backed editorial, answers all of the questions you forget to ask your vet or are too embarrassed to ask at the dog park. We help make sure you and your best friend have more good days, but we’re there on bad days, too.
