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From Childhood Friends to Viral Sensation: The Story of a Beloved Samoyed

Jackie Hornung and Ben Jacob’s enduring relationship began at summer camp and now their Samoyed, Lumi, captures the hearts of over a million followers as a social media star.

Leo Maxwell
Published • Updated June 27, 2025 • 3 MIN READ
From Childhood Friends to Viral Sensation: The Story of a Beloved Samoyed
On June 14, Jackie Hornung and Ben Jacob wed at 74Wythe, a Brooklyn event venue. Their Samoyed, Lumi—known online as Little Bear Lumi—acted as the ring bearer, dressed in a bespoke tuxedo.

Jacqueline Kaye Hornung frequently shares videos of her Samoyed, Lumi, affectionately known on social platforms as Little Bear Lumi, showcasing moments that range from humorous to heartwarming.

One recent video captures Jackie and her fiancé, Benjamin Aaron Jacob, rehearsing their wedding’s first dance in their Manhattan apartment. Lumi, perched on the couch, initially protests with barks before attempting to join in. Though momentarily shooed away for being too playful, the dance ultimately becomes a trio affair, leaving the dog content.

Jackie and Ben’s relationship began long before Lumi came into their lives in 2021 as a puppy. The couple first met in 2009 at Camp Echo Lake, a sleep-away camp in Warrensburg, New York, which they attended every summer as children. By age 16, they had become a couple and have remained together since.

Reflecting on their bond, Jackie, now 27, said, “I always felt like I had met my person. We promised each other back then that we wouldn’t let go.” During their teenage years, they spent off-season weekends and holidays visiting one another, relying on their parents for transportation before they could drive.

Raised in Westport, Connecticut, Jackie is the eldest of four siblings. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Tulane University and had intentions to pursue graduate studies to become a physician assistant. However, before learning the outcomes of her applications, her life took an unexpected turn.

That pivotal change came when Lumi rose to social media fame, capturing widespread attention.

Leo Maxwell
Leo Maxwell

Leo provides commentary on the arts and cultural scene, alongside analysis of key political elections and campaigns.

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