Something coaxed me to get to know this duo, and I´m so grateful that I did.
Originally from Vienna, Ivana Popovic has been visiting Palm Beach for over thirty years, always with a canine companion.
I had the pleasure of getting to know her and her york-tese, Coco, learning about her service, and five grown children (which is is very proud of).
Ivana was an emergency room nurse, and now does in-home, private patient care. Coco often accompanies her on visits to patients.
"Many of my patients credit Coco as part of their recovery. He is so gentle and loving", she shared. Like most dogs, Coco is a healer.
He was named after the abundance of coconuts on the famed island; coincidentally, Coco Chanel is his mom´s favorite designer.
He is a spritely 15 years-old, son of a yorkshire terrier, and a maltese. Not only is Coco a gentleman, but also a seasoned world traveler. He and his mistress split their time between Palm Beach, New York and Milan, Italy.
Coco was recently bestowed the honor and title of "#1 Traveling Canine" aboard the Cunard cruise line.
While cruising the seas, Coco enjoys socializing (especially with the ladies), and the attention of his personal chef, who delights in preparing him his favorite meal: chicken, rice and vegetables.
Coco is certainly no stranger to good manners and international travel. His lineage was bestowed by his birth mother Tiffany, a yorkshire terrier; who was a frequent traveler aboard the QE2 and the Queen Mary. Tiffany was loved and enjoyed her charmed life of over twenty years.
"Ambassador of Palm Beach" was recently bestowed upon Coco; he was recognized for his handsomeness, gentle demeanor and obedience at the 22nd Annual Worth Avenue Pet Parade. He and his mom attend and donate to pets in need.
They believe "Every home should have a dog, and every dog should have a loving home". They are preparing for their next trip.
I look forward to meeting them for tea, when they return. I´ll have to wear a dress and don a hat. Coco always dresses for dates usually in a tuxedo!
Dog World with Tina
Tina Valant-Siebelts is a confirmed dog-o-holic, mom to many rescued pets, who volunteers with numerous organizations. To "fill all those dog bowls," Tina is an award-winning photographer, writer & event coordinator. www.HaveDog.com
