Instagram-famous dog models Tinkerbelle and Belle talk about life in the limelight and how they maintain their wellness routine with their packed schedules.
How did your journey from shelter dog to celebrated model and actor unfold, and what was that transition like for you?
Tinkerbelle: My journey is like an old-fashioned movie star. I was discovered in the streets of New York City by a talent agent while out on a walk. She was taken with my size, beauty, and charm! My first booking was for Ralph Lauren. I was so excited for my first shoot to be with such an amazing designer. I always loved fashion. I was on set with adults and children, and they had me shoot still photos and videos. I had wardrobe changes, too! It was epic. But the even more epic surprise was when the campaign launched, I was selected as the face of the campaign! I was everywhere — full pages in fashion magazines, billboards, posters, buses, and more! I knew that this world was where I belonged and that I had made it!
Did you ever think you would be on set shooting a national commercial just three weeks after being with Tinkerbelle?
Belle: Getting off the airplane from Oklahoma, I had no idea that I was going to be a star just like my sister, Tinkerbelle. When Human submitted me for the audition, I never thought I would book the shoot. Well, I did! It was so much fun. I got a beautiful collar from the wardrobe department to wear, I got to model some amazing eyeglass frames, and I had a co-star! I had to sit, stay, and walk to the camera on cue. I was only 3½ months old, and everyone on set was amazed at my skills! Word spread that I am a natural!
How do you maintain your grooming and wellness routine given your busy schedule?
TB: Human keeps up with everything and works around my schedule. It is a juggling act! I am very diva, so I go to the spa every 3-4 weeks, plus I have many baths at home in between. I take daily supplements to keep up with my beauty, and I never overeat! For exercise, I like to walk, and I interact with the humans along the way. I also like to stretch my legs and play fetch with my blue bunny, either on set or at home.
As such a tiny celebrity, are there special concerns you have?
TB: My main concern is that no one steps on me! Being so close to the ground, it’s a problem. I just ask Human to carry me most of the time, like the queen I am. I also have to stay close to Human so I don’t end up disappearing!
How does it feel to be an actor with resume credits including “Saturday Night Live”?
B: I was jumping up and down when they cast me, a 4-pound pup, on “Saturday Night Live” at the age of 1½. I could not believe I was going into the NBC building, meeting the actors, rehearsing on set, and then shooting the show live! I am even more excited that I have now been on SNL three times! Some human actors are jealous of my resume, but most think it is great! I feel so proud, like a 100-pound pup! I walk with swagger now.
You’ve partnered with so many big brands. How do you decide which collaborations feel like a good fit?
TB: Partnering with big brands is always fun, but Human is very selective for me. It has to be a good fit. The product has to be a little upscale, a little diva, or something I really would wear or use.
What’s your favorite way to relax or decompress after a hectic schedule?
TB: My favorite way to relax is to be alone in a dark room and sleep! I make sure my sister leaves me alone. Belle has non-stop energy, but I need my R&R. Of course, a good streaming movie is always helpful, too!
What do you like to do on a day off?
B: I honestly don’t like a day off. My thing is work and play! When I have a day off, I buzz around the house and play with all of my toys — and I mean all. I take every single one out and throw them all around the room. I also like to annoy my sister. I like to keep moving all day long.
How did #TravelingTink begin?
TB: At the beginning of my fame, a hotel reached out and asked me to be their guest. Human never realized this was a “thing,” as everything was pretty new to us. So, Human said yes! We had a blast, and #TravelingTink began. Many more resorts and hotels began reaching out, and we have now traveled internationally and nationally to locations we never imagined and opportunities we never imagined. It’s fabulous, and Human makes sure to select the more diva properties that are a great fit for me.
#TravelingTink has become #BonVoyageBelles. How do you enjoy jet-set life?
B: Oh, I just love traveling with my sister. #BonVoyageBelles is amazing. I am the luckiest pup on Earth. I am seeing the world and have so many more locations I want to see. Tinkerbelle has been to so many places, so my goal is to try and catch up to her! But traveling fits my energy perfectly.
Where are #BonVoyageBelles traveling to next?
B: We hope to travel to more states within the United States, maybe to the Midwest. Something new and fun. We just need Human to say yes, and off we go!
