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 one of our favorite pastry chefs, Jill M. Montinola of Seaspice, and her dogs, Puffy and Mocha.
Your Name: Jill M. Montinola
Your Pets’ Names: Puffy and Mocha
Sex: Female
Age: 7 & 6
Breeds: Bichon Frise and Yorkshire Terrier
How did you come to own your dog(s)? What drew you to them?
I wanted a dog for so long; when we bought our house in Las Vegas, we researched. My cousin invited us to go to the pet store to buy her dog a toy. We came home with this white, fluffy cute dog. I was drawn to Puffy because she was sweet and white; I would see if she’s dirty — I am a bit of a clean freak. Mocha came when we knew Puffy needed a sister because we work long hours. We patiently visited the Nevada SPCA shelter 4 times, then we saw Mocha on their website (since Puffy is in love with Yorkies), my husband drove to the shelter with Puffy. They met, and they followed each other in the patio. The shelter staff said they would get along. They have been sisters since.
How would you describe your dogs’ personality?
Very smart, manipulating, spoiled, brat, princess, stubborn, sweet, loving.
How has owning a pet made your life richer?
My life revolves around them. They are our happiness, the laughter and sunshine. When we see them play around or just cuddle with us, it is precious. Life without them I would imagine is dull and routine. They have made our hearts richer and fuller.
It’s said that dogs reflect their owners and vice versa. How does this apply to you and yours?
It does 100%. My dogs got my smarts, stubbornness, brat, being driven — they will work hard to get their treats — and sweet and loving.
Tell us a funny story about your and your dogs.
Every morning, I say, “Good morning, babies” and give them kisses and massage them. Puffy jumps on my chest and gets into my face to make sure I pay attention to her. Or she sleeps with me all through the night; if I turn my back on her, she whines.
Mocha drags shoes from our shoe rack and puts them in Puffy’s crate or bed. We don’t know if she does it to A) calm Puffy down or B) frame her for the mess.
Are you involved in any pet organizations or philanthropies?
No, but we send donations to Nevada SPCA whenever we can.
We follow a lot of dog social media accounts like Doug the Pug and Menswear Dog. Do you? Which are your favorites?
Of course! PUFFYMOCHA on Instagram, Manny The Frenchie, Wonderful World of Bichon.