In May, dogs from across New Jersey gathered for City Lifestyle’s Next Top Doggy Model casting call, where canine contestants competed for the chance to represent their hometown on the cover.
A key partner in the event was K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel Hillsborough, known for luxury dog boarding and daycare, cage-free accommodations and a focus on safe, clean and enriching experiences for pets. K9 Resorts helped make the casting call a memorable day for families and their dogs.
Animal Alliance also joined the event, bringing its mission of helping animals in need to a day centered around community and canine connection. The nonprofit organization rescues, shelters and supports dogs and cats while helping pets find adoptive homes.
Tater Bear Treats added another special touch with small-batch dog treats made in New Jersey, giving the four-legged contestants one more reason to wag their tails.
From playful puppies to seasoned companions, the competition showcased dogs of every breed, size and personality imaginable. While every contestant brought something special to the event, one pup stood out among the entries thanks to her gorgeous face, spunky personality and undeniable sense of style.
That pup is Daisy, a Freehold-based miniature goldendoodle and the overall winner of City Lifestyle’s Next Top Doggy Model contest.
Known affectionately as Doodle, Daisy Lee, Dai and Daisy Girl, Daisy is much more than a pretty face. With her signature strut, wagging tail and fashionable accessories, she embodies everything that makes dogs such treasured members of our families.
On June 16, Daisy celebrates her seventh birthday, and what better way to mark the occasion than with statewide recognition? Her owner, Christine Pandolfo, describes her as sassy, smart and loyal, with a personality that shines just as brightly as her fluffy golden coat.
“Daisy is the sweetest girl,” Pandolfo says. “She loves her human and dog friends. She is well-behaved and loves traveling to different spots and exploring with her mom. She brings so much happiness and laughter everywhere she goes.”
Wherever she goes, Daisy seems to make friends. Her gentle personality and cheerful spirit have made her a favorite among people and pups alike. Whether she is meeting someone for the first time or revisiting a familiar face, Daisy greets everyone with the same enthusiasm.
Like many dogs, Daisy has a few favorite treats that instantly capture her attention. Purina Dentalife sticks and Newman’s Own Woofles rank at the top of her snack list. But for Daisy, life’s greatest rewards often come in the form of new experiences.
An avid explorer, Daisy loves searching for shells along the beach in Pier Village and strolling through the scenic paths of Allaire State Park. Her adventures also take her to dog-friendly destinations throughout the region, including Asbury Park. According to Pandolfo, Daisy is happiest near the water, where she can play in the sand, soak up the sunshine and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Of course, every memorable dog has at least one quirky habit, and Daisy is no exception.
Whenever someone leaves the house, Daisy immediately rushes to the window to watch them depart. But simply seeing them leave is not enough. She patiently waits for each visitor to wave goodbye before driving away. Until that wave happens, Daisy remains stationed at her post.
Part of what made Daisy stand out in this year’s competition is her undeniable sense of style. She loves dressing for every occasion, sporting seasonal bandanas, cozy sweaters and even pajamas when bedtime rolls around.
According to Pandolfo, Daisy has a distinctive little strut accompanied by an adorable wiggle that makes her impossible to ignore. It is the kind of confidence that seems tailor-made for a cover model.
Yet perhaps the most touching part of Daisy’s story happened completely by chance.
Last summer, while vacationing in the North Fork region of Long Island, Daisy and Pandolfo met a fellow dog owner who could not help but notice how much Daisy resembled her own dog, Darnell. After chatting and comparing paperwork, they made an incredible discovery: Daisy and Darnell were littermates.
But it gets better. Darnell’s owner had previously encouraged a friend to adopt another puppy from the same litter, meaning Daisy had not one, but two brothers nearby. A few weeks later, Daisy reunited with both Darnell and Carson for a special playdate.
The dogs seemed to recognize one another immediately. They played together effortlessly, forming an instant connection that delighted everyone watching.
This month, the siblings will reunite once again to celebrate their seventh birthday together.
With her sweet spirit, adventurous heart, fashionable flair and unforgettable personality, Daisy has officially earned her place as City Lifestyle’s Next Top Doggy Model.
The casting call was made possible with support from local pet-focused partners who helped create a welcoming day for dogs, families and the community.
Event partners:
K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel Hillsborough
63 Route 206, Suite 100
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
k9resorts.com/hillsborough
Animal Alliance
animalalliancenj.org
Tater Bear Treats
Order online: @tater.bear.treats on Facebook and Instagram.
“She brings so much happiness and laughter everywhere she goes.” —Christine Pandolfo