The pet influencer and fashion world has lost one of its brightest and most unique icons. Tika the Iggy, the Montreal-based Italian Greyhound who transcended “pet influencer” status to become a global style superstar, has tragically passed away at the age of 14.
The heartbreaking news was shared by her devoted owners, Thomas Shapiro and his husband, Louis, in an Instagram post that has left her millions of followers shattered. “I really thought you were going to live forever,” they wrote. “I thought we had more time, but there are things we cannot control. Our hearts are shattered.”
In the post, Tika’s dads explained that they had recently discovered two tumors in her liver. Despite the diagnosis, she “was still so full of life,” but they followed veterinary advice to proceed with surgery. While the operation was successful, complications arose after Tika returned home. “We soon found out that it was your body that was slowly giving up… It is sadly a risk that comes with surgery on senior dogs.” Tika spent her final moments at home, being held by the “favourite dads.”
Tika was not just a pet in clothes; she was one of the most famous and impactful pet influencers of her generation. More than any other animal, she successfully bridged the gap between pet fashion and the human fashion world. Tika shot to global fame during the 2020 pandemic with her viral “Love It, Couldn’t Wear It” TikTok videos, where she showed off an extravagant wardrobe she had no place to wear during lockdown.
What started as a joyful distraction became a global phenomenon. Tika was soon a front-row regular at Fashion Weeks in New York, Milan, and Paris. Famously dubbed “a new fashion It girl” by Vogue and “the Anna Wintour of dogs” by her fans, she proved that high fashion wasn’t just for humans.
Her resume of brand collaborations was staggering, including campaigns for Dior Beauty, Valentino, Fendi, BOSS, and Dolce & Gabbana. She also worked with top canine fashion designers such as Pawstyle by Luna.
She brought her signature flair to collaborations with a roster of celebrities, appearing on The Drew Barrymore Show, being championed by Lizzo, and even sharing a glam session with Jared Leto. Last year, she partied with Chrissy Teigen and John Legend. Tika also shared a mutual love for fellow French Canadian Celine Dion.
In their final, loving tribute, her owners captured the essence of her unique impact: “We just hope you know how deeply you were loved, Tika. By us, but also by so many others who came to know you. You truly loved meeting new friends, and you were larger than life… Rest peacefully, our sweet, sweet Tika. We will never, ever forget you.” Tika is survived by her protege, Kala the Iggy.
