DJ Kygo Meets His Namesake Dog with Cancer at the Palm Tree Music Festival
On June 22, 2023, DJ Kygo made a special appearance at the Palm Tree Music Festival in Southampton, New York, where he met a dog named Kygo, who is battling terminal cancer. This heartwarming encounter not only delighted attendees but also highlighted a touching story of love and the bond between a pet and its owner.
The Story Behind Kygo the Dog
Kygo the dog, a seven-year-old mutt composed of Husky, Malamute, Poodle, and Collie lineage, garnered significant attention earlier this month after a heartfelt post by The Dogist, a well-known dog photography account, by Elias Weiss Friedman. According to Friedman, he was contacted by a friend of Kygo’s owner, Ashley McClain, who wanted to share her dog’s story as time is limited for the beloved pet.
“It’s been one of her dreams to be featured on The Dogist,” Friedman explained in his video featuring the dog. Unfortunately, Kygo has been diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer that has spread to his lungs, leading to pneumonia.
Making Memories
Determined to provide her furry friend with joy in his remaining time, McClain has been making a list of experiences for Kygo. “He really changed my life in so many ways,” she shared emotion-filled, expressing gratitude that many people would now see her dog.
After completing the first item on Kygo’s bucket list, which was to meet The Dogist, she stated, “The only other thing I have left is for him to meet Kygo the DJ.”
A Viral Moment
Following the emotional post, DJ Kygo reached out via Instagram, stating, “See you at Palm Tree Fest Hamptons @empirestateofkygo. Can’t wait to meet you.” The two finally met backstage at the festival, fulfilling another wish on the dog’s list.
During a touching meetup dubbed “Kygoception,” McClain asked DJ Kygo to join Kygo’s Krew, which he eagerly accepted. Wearing a shirt and hat adorned with images of the dog, the DJ remarked, “I’ve never met a dog called Kygo before,” encapsulating the surreal nature of the encounter.
The Impact of Community Support
As the story gained traction, the dog-loving community rallied to support Kygo the dog and his owner. The Brady Hunter Foundation generously donated $10,000 to assist with Kygo’s medical expenses, along with another $10,000 to the National Canine Cancer Foundation in honor of the duo.
Friedman echoed the sentiment by stating, “The power of The Dogist community was strong with this one – everyone came together for a mom and her dog with cancer to help make their last chapter together extra special.”
Follow Kygo the Dog’s Journey
For those wishing to keep up with Kygo’s adventures and updates, you can follow him on his Instagram page.
“Until you have your dog, you don’t get it. When you’re a dog’s person, there will be no feeling in the world that will ever compare,” McClain expressed, showcasing the profound connection pet owners share with their furry companions.
