- A Heartfelt Confession: “Dancing with the Stars” competitor Dylan Efron revealed that adopting his senior dog, Booey, was a “selfish act” that ultimately made his life significantly better.
- First Perfect Score: During the show’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Night, Efron secured his first 10 from guest judge Flavor Flav for his jive performance with partner Daniella Karagach.
- Advocating for Senior Pets: Efron shared advice he received from an animal trainer, highlighting that older dogs, having known hardship, are especially grateful for a loving home.
- A Rewarding Bond: He emphasized the mutual benefit of adoption, stating that while humans get dogs to improve their own lives, providing a home for a pet in need is an incredibly rewarding experience.
Dylan Efron, a fan favorite on Season 34 of “Dancing with the Stars,” is not only winning over judges with his improving dance skills but also capturing hearts with his candid revelations. The star recently opened up about a personal decision he calls a “selfish act,” one that he says has profoundly changed his life for the better.
A Star on the Dance Floor
This week, Efron and his professional partner Daniella Karagach lit up the ballroom during Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Night. Their energetic jive to Elton John’s classic “I’m Still Standing” earned them high praise, including a major milestone for Efron: his first-ever perfect score from a judge. Guest judge and music legend Flavor Flav awarded him a 10.
“I’m so happy Flava Flav loved it and gave me that first 10,” Efron told Parade in an interview. “That was really special.” He added, “It’s to the point where I know I’m becoming a better dancer. I still am craving that dance that I just go out there and crush the performance, the dance. I know it’s coming.”
While his dedication on the dance floor is evident, it’s his dedication in his personal life that has brought him the most fulfillment.
The ‘Selfish Act’ That Changed Everything
Beyond the glitz of the competition, Efron shared the story of his most rewarding relationship—with his dog, Booey. About five years ago, he chose to adopt a senior dog after receiving compelling advice from an animal trainer on the set of “Down to Earth.”
Why a Senior Dog?
Efron recalled the trainer’s wisdom. “He was saying that a puppy just doesn’t know what loss is. A puppy doesn’t know right from wrong. And they’re very difficult to train,” he explained. In contrast, adopting an older pet offers a different kind of connection. “When you adopt, especially an older dog, they’ve had a tough life. And they just want a home. And they want a better life.”
A Mutually Beneficial Bond
Efron candidly described the decision to get a pet as a “selfish act,” but with a positive twist. “Ultimately, a human getting a dog is a selfish act. We want to make our lives better, and Booey’s made my life better,” he stated.
However, he emphasized the profound flip side of that decision. “But at the same time, you can also help a dog’s life. And that’s a really rewarding feeling. And I think you feel that even more with a senior pet.” This heartwarming perspective reveals a depth to the television star that resonates with his many fans, proving that his biggest wins aren’t always on the dance floor.