Over the past year, we’ve interviewed many members of the hospitality industry, and one constant among the interviewees has been a profound love for their pets. We thought it would be great to share this love with our readers. That’s why we recently launched an ongoing feature called “Wag Wednesday” to showcase industry peeps and their pets.
This week, we’re featuring Dale Talde, Chef and Co-Owner of TALDE Miami Beach, and his pitbull mix, George.
Your Name: Dale Talde
Your Pet’s Name: George
Sex: Male
Age: 2
Breed: Pitbull Mix
How did you come to own your dog? What drew you to him?
My wife and I were playing with several dogs from See Spot Rescued. We weren’t bonding with any of them. I then asked to see the ugliest, scariest, cuddliest dog. They brought in George. He immediately crawled into my wife’s lap and fell asleep. We were in love and knew he needed much love.
How would you describe your dog’s personality?
Dopey and sweet. He loves to sleep. I would say very similar to mine … sloth-ish.
How has owning a pet made your life richer?
I love coming home to him. He always does something silly and makes us laugh. He thinks he’s a tiny puppy and insists on sitting on your lap. His constant need to be next to you is adorable.
It’s said that dogs reflect their owners and vice versa. How does this apply to you and yours?
He is easy-going and loves to sleep … just like me.
Tell us a funny story about you and your dog.
George once caught a mouse out of a subway grate and presented it to me in his mouth while we were on a walk. He didn’t kill it … he was just so excited to show me what he had. I yelled and he dropped it all guiltily. I rinsed his mouth out several times and it took me a while to forget the mouse’s squeals.
Are you involved in any pet organizations or philanthropies?
For my season on Top Chef Duels, I donated my winnings to an animal rescue organization.
We follow a lot of dog social media accounts like Doug the Pug and Menswear Dog. Do you? Which are your favorites?
@seespotrescued, @pitbullsofficial, @noelaniig
See past editions of Wag Wednesdays here.