DOGFLUENCERS: Meet Simba, New Jersey's Famous Doodle Living His Best Life

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 Saraanne (Simba'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?

Tkachuk: We got Simba when I was personally going through a very hard time in PA school. Simba truly was the light that got me out of a very dark hole. Coming home and seeing him excited all the time no matter if I was gone for a couple of hours or minutes- the excitement was the same. It's the unconditional love of dogs we don't deserve.

It became very clear to me on walks, on my personal IG, and through family and friends how much Simba brightened their lives even if it was through a screen so I said hmm- how can I do this.

I had started an IG page for Simba but initially was just used to keep family and friends updated since we were long distance at the time and they always commented on how cute, fluffy, of a teddy bear he was. Some have never seen anything like that. I knew other people needed to see his light too. So I began taking social media more seriously and reaching out to different brands to collaborate. Some said yes and some no- but I had to start somewhere. Now, we have been so grateful to work with companies like HyperPet, AntelopePets, Bocces Bakery, Ark Naturals, and hopefully your company too!

What do you think sets your dog apart from other dogs on social media? What makes them unique or particularly interesting to your followers?

Tkachuk: Simba truly is a one of a kind velcro teddy bear dog. He is so playful, joyful, and excited to just be around his humans. Whether it's watching Netflix, running around outside, being silly, or whatever- he is just so happy to be there.

How do you come up with ideas for your dog's posts and content? Do you have a specific creative process?

Tkachuk: I would consider myself to be a very creative individual and Simba gives me a lot of character to work with! In the medical field, it can be very demanding, stressful, and sad. Coming home to my excited ball of fur- Simba, it allows my creativity to run loose.

Have you ever faced any challenges or negativity on social media, and how have you dealt with it?

Tkachuk: Truly, I have not encountered any negativity on Simba's page and for that I am very grateful. I mean how can you be mad looking at a face like his?

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start their own dog influencer account or share their dog on social media?

Tkachuk: I would say be honest and believe in yourself. It sounds cliche but you can do anything you put your mind to. If that makes you happy, gives you purpose in life- I would say go for it.

At first when I started, I would just share silly and really touching moment Simba, his dad, and I shared- just because. When people see how genuine and honest you are on your page it builds a sense of trust and rapport with other pet parents/brands. With this posture, although it may take time- it's worth it!

How has your dog influenced your life outside of social media?

Tkachuk: Honestly, it gives me something to talk about and make other people's day. There are oftentimes moments I will be in conversation with people and I will start to become anxious in conversation on what to talk about next (Simba is currently in training to be a service animal). A great Segway is "have I shown you my dog Simba before?" Seeing their face as I show them his IG is truly a great thing to witness. I don't know how many times I have heard "he's beautiful","happy", "teddy bear", or simply "he made my day." He brings so much joy to my life and sharing him via social media is a small way I can light up someone else's 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?

Tkachuk: We were living out in Missouri for a brief period while I was going through school and we had never been to a "Bass Pro Shops." Once I heard they were pet friendly, I was sold. As soon as we walked in, we were greeted by the staff wanted to pet him and give him treats! What I didn't know is that they had a dog section. Simba immediately saw a bunny and wanted to "catch it"- it's the retriever side of him. So he did and kept it in his mouth the whole time. Once we left Bass Pro Shops, my husband took "Bunny" and hid him in the bushes and told Simby to find him- he went full retriever mode. He caught it and did not let it go until it was safely home. Bunny became a staple in the house and we took man pictures of Simba cuddling bunny, bunny escaping home and him catching it again. All from going to a store one day. All this content caught the attention of HyperPet and that is how that collaboration began. I love working with companies that Simba enjoys so I can be honest with my audience.

What is your favorite thing about being a dog influencer?

Tkachuk: I love sharing my teddy bear Simba with the world and brightening their day with this golden piece of my heart.

Lastly, what's next for you and your dog on social media? Any exciting plans or projects in the works?

Tkachuk: We currently work alongside several brands so we are always creating content and exploring other partnerships!