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 Max Santiago, Executive Pastry Chef/Partner at The Salty Donut, and his greyhound rescue, UHaul Mack.
Your Name: Max Santiago
Your Pet’s Name: UHaul Mack
Sex: Male
Age: 6
Breed: Greyhound
How did you come to own your dog? What drew you to him?
Being a chef, I work A LOT of hours, leaving my girlfriend alone a lot. We always wanted a dog, and with all of the breeders out there bringing dogs into the world for profit, we opted to rescue one instead. My girlfriend always loved greyhounds because she says they remind her of herself — really skinny, always skittish, kind of shy and takes time to earn her trust! Yep, that’s her exactly! Lol.
How would you describe your dog’s personality?
He’s skittish but very loyal once he warms up to you, which took him a full year. He loves to sleep a lot, and eats everything! He is very affectionate and loves to be petted. He likes humans more than dogs.
How has owning a pet made your life richer?
Dogs love you unconditionally. I love that Mack warmed up to me and only allows certain people to get close. When I get home late after a long day of work, he’s always there to greet me and to cuddle with!
Tell us a funny story about you and your dog.
I had the crazy idea of getting on a skateboard and having Mack pull me, so I wouldn’t have to pedal … I didn’t mention it was downhill in a parking garage! I ended up passing him and not being able to stop.
It scared the crap out of him and I almost killed myself crashing off of the board. Poor doggie was so terrified. It was pretty hilarious!
Are you involved in any pet organizations or philanthropies?
No, but we do like to visit the kennel where we adopted him. They plan various outings and all the greyhounds get to play together. They are such beautiful and loving people to take on a nonprofit organization, and they take really great care of the dogs!
We follow a lot of dog social media accounts like Doug the Pug and Menswear Dog. Do you? Which are your favorites?
I like yours!
See past editions of Wag Wednesdays here.