We are delighted to have Gizmo and his human Dan contribute to our dog stories series. Gizmo has always been available to lend a paw of support at our PAAW House charity events and on our social media platforms. Thanks for taking the time to share some of the secrets of your Insta fame, charity work and awakening our interest in GIFs!
Being a short haired chihuahua, I was always concerned about Gizmo’s ability to regulate his body temperature. When he was a pup I ensured that he stayed warm whilst looking as cute as possible. Apprehensive about cloud storage, I created an Instagram account to upload pictures as I knew they wouldn’t go anywhere on this platform. I was amazed at how people around the world started to fall in love with him and his trendy personality.
Fast forward a year later and he has been featured on postcards, popular blogs and in newsletters. He has also made guest appearances at Dog Fest and Haus of Chihuahua Summer of Love Festival in their ‘Instagram Dog’s Corner’. We also support charities including Wild at Heart Foundation, The Mayhew and PDSA, attending events and making regular donations. I also use Gizmo’s social media channels to spread brand awareness for these charities amongst his followers. Gizmo has become a sensation in the past year with his face being seen just under half a billion times on the popular GIF sharing site GIPHY. Due to his many facial expressions, fans can relate and they use these across all social media platforms.
We have met countless celebrities from attending influencer events. Gizmo has teamed up with well-known brands including Pets at Home, Klarna, Tik Tok and even had a photoshoot in Liberty London. All of this has happened within a year and although this sounds like a busy life, I must stress that his health and wellbeing is priority. He is a playful, intelligent boy and I am so thrilled to be sharing his life with everyone around the world.
This is the power of social media, together as one community for all pet pawrents, everything is possible!
Top image credit @ravenimagery
