Last Updated on August 13, 2024 by Fumipets
Internet Can’t Cope With Border Collie’s Hilarious Reaction to Olympic Gymnastics
The world may have bid farewell to the Paris 2024 Olympics, but for one adorable Border Collie named Zac, the excitement of the Games has left a lasting impression. This 7-year-old sports enthusiast, hailing from Berkshire, U.K., has captured the hearts of internet users worldwide with his animated reactions to Olympic gymnastics, proving that even our furry friends can become die-hard fans of the Games.
Zac’s Unlikely Obsession With Sports
A Love for Movement and Sports
Zac, a 7-year-old Border Collie, isn’t your average dog. While most dogs are content with chasing balls or fetching sticks, Zac’s true passion lies in watching sports. Whether it’s a live event or a broadcast on television, Zac is there, front and center, captivated by the action. His owner, Andrea Williams, revealed that Zac’s love for sports started during the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 and has only grown stronger since then.
“Zac loves to watch all sports, whether that’s on the TV or live,” Williams told Newsweek. “He gets really into them and loves the movements, especially the running events.”
A Screen Time Sensation
Zac’s love affair with the TV began in the summer of 2017 when he was just a young pup, around 9 or 10 months old. His first taste of televised sports came in the form of a rugby match, and from that moment on, Zac was hooked. Williams recalls how Zac engaged with the screen right from the start, showing a keen interest in the fast-paced action.
“Zac was just 9 or 10 months old at the time. He engaged with the TV from the start and has since shown an interest in a variety of sports. He also enjoys watching certain films like Jurassic Park, Babe, and Finding Dory—he’ll sit through the entire film without moving,” Williams added.
Beyond the Screen: Zac’s Active Lifestyle
While Zac may enjoy his screen time, his life is anything but sedentary. Williams, who runs a dog-walking business called Collie Capers of Barkshire, ensures that Zac gets plenty of exercise to balance out his love for watching sports. Zac leads an active and busy life, filled with outdoor adventures and physical activities.
“I run with him, cycle with him alongside, and he’s out all day long with me and other dogs,” Williams explained.
Zac Takes TikTok by Storm
The Viral Sensation
Zac’s enthusiasm for sports hasn’t gone unnoticed. Williams began sharing videos of Zac’s reactions on TikTok, where they quickly gained popularity. However, it was a particular video of Zac watching Olympic gymnastics that truly catapulted him to internet stardom. The video, showcasing Zac’s animated reactions as he mimicked the gymnasts’ floor routines, has garnered over 2.8 million views, with viewers around the world captivated by the dog’s endearing antics.
“Definitely gold medal performance!” one viewer, Shawne Harmer, commented on the video, while another user, Lisa, declared, “The gold medal goes to the dog. He is so clever!”
Social Media Buzz and Celebrity Recognition
Zac’s viral video didn’t just capture the hearts of regular viewers—it even caught the attention of Olympic fans. Some TikTok users humorously tagged Olympic gymnast Simone Biles in the comments, with one user, @gloskermorn, writing, “@Simone Biles no pressure girl.”
Williams was taken aback by the overwhelming response to Zac’s video, saying, “I really did not expect this reaction at all. It has really surprised me; however, seeing the feel-good factor generated in the comments is fantastic.”
Zac Isn’t Alone: The Growing Trend of TV-Loving Dogs
Scout, the Harry Potter Fan
Zac isn’t the only Border Collie with a passion for the screen. Just last month, a 2-year-old Border Collie named Scout gained viral attention for his reaction to a scene in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2. Like Zac, Scout’s love for TV has made him a social media sensation, further proving that dogs’ interests can be as diverse as those of their human companions.
The Science Behind Dogs and TV
But what exactly makes some dogs like Zac and Scout so fascinated by television? According to experts, dogs are naturally drawn to movement, and the fast-paced action on the screen can easily capture their attention. Additionally, certain breeds, like Border Collies, are known for their intelligence and high energy levels, making them more likely to engage with stimulating activities, including watching TV.
What’s Next for Zac?
The Paralympics Await
As the Paris 2024 Olympics have come to a close, Zac might be feeling a bit of post-Olympic blues. However, there’s good news for this sports-loving pup—the Paralympics are just around the corner, and Zac will soon have another opportunity to indulge in his favorite pastime.
Williams is optimistic about Zac’s continued enjoyment of televised sports, saying, “Luckily for Zac, the summer sports are not over yet. He has the Paralympics to watch next!”
Zac’s Legacy as a Sports Fanatic
Zac’s enthusiasm for sports has brought joy to millions of viewers and highlighted the unique ways in which dogs can engage with the world around them. Whether it’s watching gymnastics, rugby, or his favorite movies, Zac’s passion is a testament to the special bond between dogs and their owners—and the unexpected hobbies that can bring them together.
Conclusion
Zac, the Border Collie with a love for sports, has become an internet sensation thanks to his adorable and animated reactions to Olympic gymnastics. From his early days as a TV-watching pup to his current status as a TikTok star, Zac’s journey is a heartwarming reminder of the joy that pets bring into our lives. As he eagerly awaits the start of the Paralympics, one thing is certain: Zac’s love for sports isn’t going anywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs
1. Why do some dogs like watching TV?
Some dogs are naturally drawn to movement, and the fast-paced action on television can easily capture their attention. Breeds like Border Collies, known for their intelligence and energy, are more likely to engage with stimulating activities, including watching TV.
2. What types of sports does Zac enjoy watching the most?
Zac enjoys a variety of sports, with a particular interest in gymnastics and running events. His love for movement and fast-paced action makes these sports especially captivating for him.
3. How did Zac become a viral sensation?
Zac became a viral sensation after his owner, Andrea Williams, shared a video of him watching Olympic gymnastics on TikTok. The video, showcasing Zac’s animated reactions, quickly gained over 2.8 million views, capturing the hearts of viewers worldwide.
4. Are there other dogs like Zac who enjoy watching TV?
Yes, Zac isn’t alone in his love for TV. Other dogs, like Scout, a 2-year-old Border Collie, have also gained attention for their reactions to movies and TV shows, proving that this is a growing trend among certain dogs.
5. What’s next for Zac after the Olympics?
Zac is eagerly awaiting the start of the Paralympics, where he will have another opportunity to enjoy watching sports. His owner, Andrea Williams, believes that Zac’s love for televised sports will continue to bring joy to viewers in the future.
