Remembering Tika the Iggy: Montreal's Fashion Icon and Internet's Beloved Greyhound
The internet is mourning the loss of a true fashion icon. Tika the Iggy, the beloved Italian Greyhound who captured hearts worldwide with her impeccable style and charismatic personality, has passed away at the age of 14. Her owner, Thomas Shapiro, announced the heartbreaking news on November 5, 2025, through an emotional Instagram post that left millions of followers devastated.
A Fashionista Born
Tika wasn't just any ordinary dog – she was a bonafide fashion influencer who revolutionized the way we think about pet style. Based in Montreal, this elegant Italian Greyhound became known as the "Anna Wintour of dogs," earning recognition from Vogue for her sophisticated fashion sense and uncanny ability to pull off even the most challenging runway looks.
With over 1.4 million followers on Instagram and a massive following across TikTok and other social media platforms, Tika proved that style knows no species boundaries. Her feed was a masterclass in high fashion, featuring everything from Saint Laurent ensembles to luxury accessories that would make fashion editors envious.
The Journey to Fame
What made Tika truly special wasn't just her wardrobe (though it was certainly impressive), but her personality that shone through every photograph and video. She had this remarkable ability to convey confidence and elegance that resonated with people across cultures and generations. Fashion designers loved working with her, and she became a beloved figure among celebrities, with Oprah among her famous admirers.
Thomas Shapiro, her devoted owner, transformed Tika's natural poise and beauty into a social media empire that celebrated the intersection of pets and fashion. Their partnership created content that was both entertaining and inspiring, showing how pets could be part of our fashion-conscious lives.
A Sudden Farewell
In her final weeks, Tika faced health challenges that led to surgery to remove tumours from her liver. Despite the best medical care and the love of her family, she passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy that touched millions of lives.
"Our hearts are shattered," her family wrote. "I really thought you were going to live forever. I thought we had more time, but there are things we cannot control."
More Than Just an Influencer
Tika's impact extended far beyond social media metrics. She represented a new era of pet companionship where animals aren't just family members but creative collaborators and style icons in their own right. She inspired pet owners everywhere to think creatively about their furry friends' potential and showed that aging gracefully – even at 14 – could be done with dignity and flair.
Her influence helped launch countless other pet influencers and opened doors for animals in the fashion industry. Designers began creating lines specifically for pets, and fashion shows started featuring four-legged models, partly thanks to the trailblazing path Tika helped create.
A Lasting Legacy
While Tika the Iggy may no longer be with us, her spirit lives on in every stylish pet photo, in every creative social media post, and in the hearts of millions who found joy in her daily doses of fashion inspiration. She proved that true style transcends species, age, and even physical presence.
In a world often filled with sadness and division, Tika brought pure, uncomplicated joy. She reminded us that elegance can be found in the smallest gestures, that confidence is the best accessory anyone can wear, and that the love between a pet and their family is the ultimate fashion statement.
Rest in peace, Tika the Iggy. You've left pawprints on our hearts and style tips that will never go out of fashion.
Thank you for the years of inspiration, laughter, and lessons in living life with style and grace. You will be deeply missed by your global family of admirers.
