Photo by Mandy Whitley Photography

Ever wonder how creative people live with their pets? Us too! That’s why from now on we’ll be bringing you regular interviews of an inspirational someone and their special furball! We’ve been working on putting this column together for a couple of months now and to kick things off we could think of nobody better suited than the incredibly talented Courtney Dial, editor and founder of Pizzazzerie — the place to go for stylish party inspiration! Courtney recently opened her home and her heart to an adorable English Springer Spaniel puppy, called Henry. Now that Henry is six-months-old, Courtney dishes about her puppy parenting experiences so far!

What is your morning routine like?
The morning routine begins with super un-fun barking that begins around 6:30am and continues until I finally drag my tired self out of bed. Henry is usually plastered up against the side of his crate waiting to be let out, which is followed by lots of jumping and running. We call this morning “wild time” and it often includes several bounces and jumps off the back of the couch (we’re working on that…) He gets breakfast, plays outside a bit and finally begins to settle down with a chew bone…or my sock.
How would you say your life is different now that you share it with a furball?
My life is DRASTICALLY different with Henry. I can’t be gone too long from the house because his itty-bitty puppy bladder can’t go too long. I also have to keep ALL desserts and party props for my job up off the floor so he doesn’t begin to play taste-tester.
How would you say you spoil your pet?
My finance and I spoil Henry to death. I have bought him the entire KONG line and he gets nightly foot massages from the fiance. We rub his tummy multiple times a day and he gets trips to the dog park throughout the week.
What is the most creative thing you have done with or for Henry?
I made Henry a plaid bunting banner with his name on it to hang over his crate the first day he came home!
You are an event designer/stylist. Does that mean Henry can expect some lavish parties in his honour?
OH YES! I plan to serve ‘Oh Henry’ bars to all human guests and have a ‘woof’ themed party with ‘bark-scotti’ favours!
Who does Henry most take after, you or your fiance?
ME! He’s a little wild, loves to nap and has a bit of an attitude, haha.
How would you describe Henry as an assistant since you work from home?
He’s a mess. He really enjoys running and sliding down my hallway into my apothecary jars, which then shatter all over the floor. He also likes jumping into my ribbon box. I call him my “creative director.” I am trying to teach him to lay beside my desk but for now, he chooses to stick his nose into my glitter box and shred my wrapping paper.
What is your favourite snack? What is Henry’s?
Mine is ice cream and Henry’s is…. Puppy Ice Cream! I get it at my local grocery store. We enjoy ice cream breaks.
What is your favourite pastime? What is Henry’s?
Mine is sleeping (naps are rare) and Henry’s is going to the dog park. Even if we say the word “apart” he thinks we said “park” and then runs circles through the house like a madman.
If you and Henry suddenly became superheros and had to save the world, what would your powers be?
Henry’s would TOTALLY be flying, he already thinks he can. He should probably be superman for Halloween. Mine would be to go “invisible” :)
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Thank you so much Courtney and Henry for sharing part of your lives with us! Who will we be hearing from next week? Join us to find out :)