People & Their Pets IV
Jennifer Starr Perez
Jenny Starr Perez is the fashion director for Apples to Oranges Magazine, a supplement to the Wall Street Journal and New York Post, and is also a contributing stylist and writer for several publications. She holds a long-standing career as a fashion editor, including work at Plum Magazine and Niche Media (Ocean Drive and Ocean Drive Español). She has also produced and styled high-profile events, such as celebrity lounges for the Primetime Emmy Awards, American Music Awards, as well as for internationally acclaimed photographer David LaChapelle. Jenny is the proud owner of Rocky.
An average day with your dogs would entail… Rocky has developed my personality. Seriously, he could be my kid, if he were human, that is. So, what that pretty much means is that he loves to sleep in (under the covers, head on pillow, thank you very much!) and then spend some time walking under the sun. We spend a lot of time together since I take him everywhere within walking distance with me and he’s very social. A great part of living on Miami Beach is some retailers allow dogs in so he gets to tag along when I go shopping, a favorite spot being Walgreen’s. The people there are always so lovely and give him tons of attention. He loves the beach and he gets really excited about running on the sand but is completely horrified by the ocean. Rocky also has a mountain of toys he enjoys playing with every day and brazenly shows off to visitors. He has this one particular toy that’s really old and a bit disgusting but that he likes to bring out and place on a poor, unsuspecting guest’s lap, watching and waiting eagerly for them to throw it so he can fetch.
What was the last thing you taught Rocky to do? I was recently finally able to get Rocky to give me his paw. He’s very well-trained in every other way- “Sit”, “Stay”, “STOP IT!!!”- but I thought it would be fun if he could do this, too. With the help of doggie treats, he finally did it! I was a very proud mother on that day.
What is funniest thing Rocky has ever done? I can’t think of the funniest thing I’ve even seen him do, but I can tell you about a couple of funny things Rocky is famous for. It’s a bit graphic so bear with me. Sometimes, after Rocky lifts his leg to pee and relieves himself, he does a handstand. By this I mean he literally pushes both his hind legs up in the air and over his head for a second and then drops them back down. Strangers walking around always laugh when they see this because it’s just so weird!!! He’s been doing it since day one. He’s like my little yoga dog! It’s hilarious! Another thing that’s funny about Rocky is that he reprimands my cat, Pia, if I get angry at her for clawing the furniture or whatever. She runs when I yell and he chases after her until she’s under the couch. Then he’ll strut – yes, my dog struts- around the apartment, looking extremely pleased with himself.
If you could swap roles with Rocky for a day, how do you think he’d handle being you and vice versa? Oh I think we’d manage just fine. I would be thrilled to lay around comfortably all day, being told how cute I am and being spoiled rotten. And since Rocky is already naturally adept at looking bored when he is not interested, he would make an amazing Devil Wears Prada-style editor.
About Paws 4 You Rescue
Paws 4 You Rescue is a Miami-based non-profit 501(c)3, all volunteer, donor-subsidized animal rescue organization. Its top priority is to save animals from euthanasia at Miami-Dade Animal Services.
Rescued animals vary from being sick, injured, homeless and surrendered to simply lost. All animals are sterilized, vaccinated and ID micro-chipped to prevent future loss. Some require major surgery from a specialist to repair broken limbs while others may need additional rehabilitation time and specific medical care – ranging from respiratory illnesses and skin infections to cherry eyes and heartworm treatments.
Paws 4 You offers programs for adoption, fostering and senior citizens. Paws 4 You supports its mission by hosting numerous fundraising events throughout the year and through community donations.
Please visit www.paws4you.org for current information and additional details.
