Love, Loyalty, and a Touch of Luxury: Lady & Steph’s Story
Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love in all its forms, and for Steph and Lady, love is woven into everyday moments, long walks, and even a shared appreciation for life’s small luxuries. We sat down with this dynamic duo to learn more about their special bond, the lessons learned from a life spent together, and, of course, their impeccable taste in comfort.
A Birthday Surprise Like No Other
Some gifts change your life forever, and for Steph, that gift came in the form of Lady, a Wire-Haired Fox Terrier, who arrived via pet taxi from Bloemfontein. On her 32nd birthday, Steph had expected a Cairn Terrier, but her husband and best friend had other plans. Instead, Lady appeared—a feisty, lovable surprise wrapped in wiry fur and boundless energy. And just like that, a lifelong friendship began.
A Love That Knows No Bounds (Even When it Comes to Sardines)
Every dog parent has their moment of ultimate indulgence for their beloved companion. For Steph, it was the time they ran out of dog food, and Lady found herself feasting on an imported tin of Portuguese sardines—a delicacy Steph had been saving. Nothing but the best for Lady, of course.
There in the Best and Toughest of Times
Life isn’t always sunshine and beach days, but Lady has been Steph’s constant source of joy and peace—especially during pregnancy. When stress loomed, their daily walks became a sanctuary, offering Steph a much-needed moment of calm, wrapped in the rhythm of paws on the pavement and the simple joy of Lady exploring the world.
Cherished Memories & Grand Adventures
From long road trips to lazy Sunday beach outings, Lady has been part of Steph’s most treasured moments. Some favourites include:
- Driving to Clanwilliam with Lady curled up on Steph’s pregnant belly, sleeping soundly.
- Running through the Alphen Trail, watching Lady joyfully hop through the long grass.
- Low tide beach days, with Lady swimming out to retrieve the ball, always ready for another round of fetch.
- Coming home to Lady’s tail-wagging excitement, a greeting that never gets old.
Lessons in Love & Living in the Moment
Dogs have an incredible way of reminding us of life’s most important lessons. According to Steph, Lady has taught her that there are no rules—each day is different, and joy can be found in the smallest of moments. Whether it’s chasing a ball, soaking up the sun, or simply being outside, Lady lives life to the fullest, and it’s a philosophy worth embracing.
If Lady Could Talk…
We couldn’t resist asking: if Lady could say one thing to Steph, what would it be?
Without hesitation, Steph answered: "She would ask me to return my toddler to sender and say it was better when it was just the three of us."
Lady’s Luxurious Life
As a true connoisseur of comfort, Lady has a few indulgences of her own. Her absolute favourite Petite French & Co. item? The Sommeil Bed. In her words (if she could talk, of course): "Very luxe. And I love the pillow."
When she’s not lounging in her plush bed, Lady is performing her signature ‘happy dance’ when Steph comes home, savouring Achilles tendons and pistachio nuts (secured with her irresistible ‘puppy-dog face’), and plotting her next mischievous move—like the time she ran away from her grandparents’ house and hid under the neighbour’s bed… all because she smelled a cat.
A Life Well-Loved
From grand adventures to the simplest joys of belly rubs and head scratches, Lady and Steph’s story is a reminder that love—true, unconditional love—comes in many forms. And sometimes, it arrives as a surprise birthday gift from Bloemfontein, wagging its tail and changing your life forever.