Tika Iggy, a beloved Italian greyhound from Montreal known for her fashionable style, has died.
Her owners, Thomas Shapiro and his husband Louis, announced her passing on Instagram and TikTok on Tuesday.
“I really thought you would live forever,” the post said. “I thought we had more time, but there are things we can't control. Our hearts are broken.”
According to the report, Tika was recently diagnosed with two tumors in her liver, but after surgery they were successfully removed and she was discharged without complications.
But while she appeared to be recovering, the couple said something had changed.
“After the second day at home, something changed. You looked so tired, not quite yourself, but at peace,” he said.
Shapiro went on to say that although veterinarians initially thought it was an effect of the painkillers, they soon discovered that Tiki's body was “slowly giving in” and nothing could be done to prevent it.
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In the message, the couple wrote that Tika spent her last moments at home, surrounded by her “beloved dads.”
“We feel numb and lost now that you are gone, but we are so grateful that you were surrounded by your family in your final moments,” the post read.
From Star Wars' Queen Amidala to Celine Dion, Tika's intricate outfits have earned her a social media following, with 1.6 million followers on Instagram and 3.1 million on TikTok.
Vogue magazine called her “the new hot chick” and The Dogist called her the “Anna Wintour of a Dog.”
Her little sister Kala also joined in on the fun, often appearing in many of the photos and videos, also dressed to the nines.
Louis also took to Instagram to address the loss, posting a video of the 14-year-old pup, saying they chose each other shortly before he started university and that Tika was the one who brought Thomas into his life.
“We supported each other through all the ups and downs, you stood by me in all my achievements,” he said in the video. “You watched me graduate from high school, get married, buy a house, and become a father twice over. And with Tom's help, I watched you grow into a tiny superstar, traveling the world and bringing joy wherever you went.
“From a lost boy to a happily married father of two beautiful children, I owe it all to you… You will always be in my heart and I will always be in yours.”
Many Tiki fans took to social media to pay their respects and condolences, including other influencers like Hazel the Mini Sausage.
“You will forever be an icon, Tika. I will miss you, friend. Sending your servants all the love,” Hazel wrote on Instagram.
“Thank you for making us all so happy to always see you Tika,” wrote drag queen Lady Camden. “And thank you, dads, for the joy you gave us through Tika.”
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