Mere feet away from where he and his iconic dog Mia were recognized by Casper’s mayor less than three weeks before, Billy Welch’s mood reflected the overcast and glum weather that took over the city this week.
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Billy Welch and Mia chat with the Star-Tribune on Oct. 15, 2026. They have spent years bringing smiles to Casper while supporting local fundraisers and helping those in need.
Andrew Towne
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Billy Welch and Mia stop and chat with customers at Metro Coffee on Oct. 15, 2026.
Andrew Towne
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Billy Welch used to work at Casper’s westside Walmart. He was fired on Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026, prompting outcry from Casperites who knew and loved Welch and his celebrity canine companion, Mia.
Andrew Towne
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Billy Welch and Mia chat with the Casper Star-Tribune on Oct. 15, 2026.
Andrew Towne
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Billy Welch, Mia and Tori Feronti pose for a photo at David Street Station on Oct. 15, 2026.
Andrew Towne
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Billy Welch and Mia chat with the Star-Tribune on Oct. 15, 2026.
Andrew Towne
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— Dylan Farrell can be reached at 307-441-0496, dylan.farrell@trib.com or on X @dfarrell_journo.
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