Nica Richards

By Nica Richards

Journalist


SA’s smallest celeb to make epic appearance at Wodac expo

Mr Miyagee, a prominent influencer, VIP guest, and therapy dog, will be attending the expo in style.


A one-year-old chocolate tri-colour longcoat Chihuahua, Mr Miyagee, has already inspired the nation, and will now bring his pizzazz to this year’s World of Dogs and Cats (Wodac) expo red carpet.

This dog has achieved more than many humans will in their lifetime, and he has a number of side jobs – from being a motivational speaker, judge, and MC at various events, with his human mom, Lindi Pieterse, translating his thoughts, to being an ambassador for Pet Mall SA’s Dare 2 Car campaign, there is not much this furbaby can’t do.

Mr Miyagee’s campaign against bullying. Image: Red Dingo South Africa/Facebook

This alone should make one excited to have the opportunity to shake his paw at the Wodac expo from July 19 to 21.

Because Mr Miyagee is no ordinary pooch, he will be travelling from Cape Town to the Gallagher Estate in Fourways, Johannesburg in style. He will be flown to the event in a private jet, and driven to the expo by a personal chauffeur.

Image: Facebook

A certified emotional support dog and trained therapy dog, Mr Miyagee has definitely worked hard to earn the lifestyle he leads. This includes a fitness team dedicated to his wellbeing, who train him with an underwater treadmill, massages, and at-home treatments.

Pieterse said that he regularly visited schools, hospitals, old age and children’s homes to inspire and share a bit of love.

“He adores kids and most of the time just being there … resting on someone’s lap or sitting next to a sick little patient watching them smile, provide them with all the love, warmth and care they so long for,” she said.

Apart from being an influencer for many prominent South African pet brands, including Cosmic Pets, Plush Puppy, Easigrass SA, and John Paul Pet, Mr Miyagee, also known as Il Piccolo Cucciolo di Cioccolato, Italian for the little chocolate puppy, is the founder and sheriff of the CSI, or Chihuahua Secret Intelligence.

Mr Miyagee representing Hills. Image: Facebook

The CSI is an initiative made up of animals who are dedicated to sharing love, inspiring others and teaching animal lovers and children about their journey as therapy pets. The CSI team includes Mr Miyagee, two cats, a corn snake, a tarantula, a pug, three Italian greyhounds, two hedgehogs and his best friend, a pony named Hercules.

Mr Miyagee’s best friend, Hercules. Image: Facebook

Hercules and Mr Miyagee share a tender moment. Image: Facebook

Catch Mr Miyagee and other epic pets at the Wodac expo, which will take place from Friday, July 19 to Sunday, July 21. Visitors are not permitted to bring their own pets. Visit the website for more information.

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