The Colorado Springs Emu Everyone's Been Asking About

What happens when a bird bought to guard a backyard flock becomes a full-blown local celebrity? This week, Carly sits down with Billy-Sue Mitchell and her six-foot emu, Dennis, at their charming Colorado Springs home, surrounded by ducks, two chickens, and two dogs.Billy shares how Dennis went from a duck-harness-wearing baby to a leash-walking icon spotted everywhere from Garden of the Gods to Manitou Springs, Old Colorado City, and beyond. Along the way, we get the heart-stopping story of the time Dennis went missing for 24 hours (and the German Shepherd who tracked him down), the truth about the Great Emu War of 1932, and why male emus make such gentle, devoted companions.Most movingly, Billy opens up about how Dennis helped pull her through a deep depression after losing her brother, and how sharing his joy with strangers became its own kind of healing.In this episode:Why Billy originally got an emu (hint: foxes)How public walks and a chance reporter photo made Dennis famousThe 24-hour disappearance and dramatic rescueDennis the dog: fetch with sticks, elevators, and bathroom stallsMale vs. female emus, and why dads do all the parentingEmu FAQs, therapy-animal questions and Dennis's empathy for crying kidsHow Dennis changed Billy's life after lossCatch Dennis in person! Our picks of the week: Donkey Derby Days (Cripple Creek)Monument's Fourth of July ParadeGreen Mountain Falls' Bronc Day FestivalA sweet, surprising, genuinely moving conversation about animals, community, and the unexpected things that heal us.We Love Our SponsorsPikes Peak Library District Summer Adventure Program — All you have to do is spend 30 days reading, creating, and exploring to win prizes.Vanguard Aesthetics — Skincare treatments with real, noticeable results.Core Collective — Our favorite spot for pilates! Use code SPRINGSANDTHINGS for 3 classes for $30.