DOGFLUENCERS: Meet Widget, Canada's Canine Star Making Waves on Social Media
Welcome to the ultimate destination for dog enthusiasts and social media mavens alike. At Dogfluencers, we're passionate about showcasing the best and brightest in the world of four-legged fame.
Whether you're looking for adorable photos, heartwarming stories, or expert tips on how to turn your own pup into a social media star, we've got you covered.
Today we got the honor of interviewing Carly (Widget's Human). You can find a direct link to their Instagram here.
Here is their story:
Can you tell us about your journey to becoming a dog influencer? What inspired you to start sharing your dog's adventures on social media?
Thomas: I originally made an Instagram account for Widget because I didn't want to spam everyone with 1001 puppy photos as he was growing up. After a few months I noticed that it wasn't just people I knew following me, but that I was gaining followers because they loved the photos I was posting of my puppy and the cute everyday adventures we'd go on. Slowly we started getting some gifts from brands, and I thought it was so fun getting recognized as being an "influencer" on Instagram. After getting laid off from my tech job in the beginning of 2023, I decided to persue content creator and being an "influencer" as a full time career as it's something I find fun and that I'm passionate about! I absolutely love sharing our life together on social media because I know people love our funny and heartwarming videos.
What do you think sets your dog apart from other dogs on social media? What makes them unique or particularly interesting to your followers?
Thomas: I think people love our account because it's funny and genuine. People love the antics of Widget and Olive (our adorable Calico cat) and everything we get up to in our day to day lives.
How do you come up with ideas for your dog's posts and content? Do you have a specific creative process?
Thomas: I like to make relatable content that people find funny! I'm also into photography and like to challenge myself to get better and better photos each month. It's something I'm really proud of myself!
Have you ever faced any challenges or negativity on social media, and how have you dealt with it?
Thomas: Of course! For every 100 positive comments, there's always one negative comment. It doesn't bother me. I know my life, and my pets better than anyone on the internet would get from a 5-second viral video.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start their own dog influencer account or share their dog on social media?
Thomas: Have fun! Too many people start out thinking they're all of a sudden going to be making thousands of dollars a month. Just take it slow, have fun, and build friendships and a sense of community around you!
How has your dog influenced your life outside of social media?
Thomas: My dog IS my life online and offline. We do everything together. I don't know where I'd be without him in all aspects of my life.
Can you tell us about a particularly memorable or funny moment you've had with your dog during one of your photo shoots or adventures?
Thomas: Anything that has to do with Widget and Olive bothering each other lol
What is your favorite thing about being a dog influencer?
Thomas: The creative freedom and the community! I've made some amazing friends online and can now even call some of those people my best friend in real life.
Lastly, what's next for you and your dog on social media? Any exciting plans or projects in the works?
Thomas: We're currently working on getting more partnerships, as well as I am focusing on getting better and better with photography and videography. We plan on doing a bunch of traveling this year as well. It's going to be the best year yet!