An Australian woman has disclosed the significant expense of upholding her dog’s online reputation.
In order to make up for not having any children, Alina Michaels, 32, a resident of Sydney’s Northern Beaches, has showered her love and care on Coco the “peekapoo,” a breed that is three quarters toy poodle and a quarter Pekingese.
Since starting her own Instagram profile four and a half years ago, Ms. Michaels has spent more than $150,000 on Coco, she revealed to Daily Mail Australia on Tuesday.
Along with a $100,000 wardrobe, she also has a $500 remote-control pink Lamborghini that she enjoys driving about in.
When Ms Michaels “noticed a friend dress her dog up with expensive clothes and then post images on social media,” she got the notion to turn Coco into a canine influencer.
More than 62,000 people have followed her dog’s Instagram account @coco the peekapoo since she started it a few years ago, saying they ‘can’t wait to see what Coco wears next.
The page generates income since many of Coco’s loyal fans buy the items she models.
According to Ms. Michaels, maintaining Coco’s Instagram account is “like a full-time job.”
In addition to appearing on numerous television shows, including “Pooch Perfect” with Rebel Wilson, Studio 10, Sunrise, and The Morning Show, Coco was named Australia’s Top Dog in 2021 and Sydney’s Top Dog in 2019.
She serves as the face of DOGUE’s Indie Boho and Bravecto clothing and accessory lines.
Due of her popularity on social media, Coco frequently encounters fans when out and about.
Ms. Michaels said, “I don’t think she fully understands what is going on.”
Coco enjoys dressing up in various outfits and gets delighted when she does so because she knows she will either leave the house or get pictures.
Each year, according to Ms. Michaels, she spends up to $8,000 on Coco’s birthday celebration, and sponsors also donate up to $15,000 worth of goods for the influencers and partygoers to take home.
Coco’s 8th birthday celebration will have a $4,000 budget.
According to Ms. Michaels, corporate collaborations on Coco’s Instagram profile produce up to $750 for each post, more than covering the cost of the extravagant birthday celebrations.
Having relationships with brands and businesses is crucial for anyone who wants to be successful since possibilities will result from doing so, according to Ms. Michaels.
Through networking, “We have met so many wonderful people along the road.”
While the majority of Coco’s fans leave favourable remarks, there are those envious dog mothers who are less than satisfied.
The expanding field of pet influencers, according to Ms. Michaels, “can be highly competitive, like a pack of school moms.”
At 8.30 p.m. AEST tonight, SBS Insight will present Alina’s tale.