GUCCI POOCHIE!
Move over Cara – there’s a new model nipping at your heels …
HER grooming routine takes four hours, only the most exclusive brands can collar her – and she won’t get out of her bed for less than a few thousand pounds.
But would you expect anything else of a supermodel – even if she is a dog?
Five-year-old Afghan hound Iraida has a modelling portfolio to rival Cara Delevingne’s, starring in shoots for everyone from Harvey Nichols to Harper’s Bazaar. As the most in- demand dog model around, luxury labels including Gucci and Chanel go barking for her long fur and slightly haughty manner.
To keep her flowing coat suitably glossy and glamorous, the pedigree pooch is groomed once a week in a routine that can take up to four hours.
And not just any old detergent will do – Iraida’s special Laser Lites shampoo and conditioner cost up to £200. She also wears a black and white polka-dot scarf to keep her ears tidy when she’s off duty.
Iraida has been modelling since she was a puppy, and is even represented by a pet modelling agency. As an experienced professional, she certainly knows how to work the camera and tease photographers.
Owner Adrienne Thomas said: ‘At the beginning of the shoots she sort of resists a bit. She winds them up waiting and then she just bursts into action. She certainly knows what she’s doing.’
Iraida’s experience doesn’t come cheap – and she certainly earns enough to keep her in chew toys and collars.
Melody Lewis of PetLondon Models, who represent Iraida, said: ‘A client’s rates are confidential but the fee charged for animals can run into the thousands depending on what they’re booked for.’
But not every pet is cut out for the model lifestyle like Iraida. Miss Lewis added: ‘It takes a certain type of temperament to be an animal model. [Iraida] is very snobby looking … She’s very obedient and chilled out.’
Iraida also, naturally, has her adoring public – and can even be more of a draw than the human models.
Mrs Thomas said: ‘We did a shoot with Gucci with [model] Louise Pedersen. Louise said: “I can’t believe this. Everyone’s coming up, but they’re not asking who I am, they’re not asking if this is the new collection from Gucci, they’re coming up to see the dog”.’