The 34-year-old relishes her time with Bongo, knowing that it won’t last much longer. She now also has a physical reminder of him that will last after he passes away, thanks to Cuddle Clones, a company that lets pet owners order plush toy versions of their animals.
The custom toymaker can create any type of animal, “but we clone mostly dogs,” said founder and “chief cloning officer” Jennifer Williams, who started the concept as a college class project in 2011. People can request special features of their pets, like a dopey smile or a hanging tongue, to make them more lifelike.
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But Howard, the pug owner, said the wait and price were worth it. Bongo’s condition has worsened and Howard’s family is bracing for the pup’s departure.
“It is heartbreaking, but I know he will be at peace,” she said. “And, I have this fantastic Cuddle Clone to remember him by.”
