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 undeniable cuteness and ability to make everyone smile.
For Ramapo Valley readers, that dog is Georgia O’Keeffe.
Named after the iconic American painter, Georgia has officially earned the title of Ramapo Valley’s Next Top Doggy Model. At 5 years old, this lovable mix of golden retriever, poodle and bichon has captured hearts throughout the community with her charm, sass and special bond with her owner, Francesca Jacobus.
While Georgia O’Keeffe may be her official name, she answers to an impressive collection of nicknames, including Bubby, Stink Butt, Georgia Peach, Meme, Bubmomgirl, The Giirrrll and Georgie Porgie. Each one reflects a different side of her spunky personality.
When asked to describe Georgia in three words, Jacobus chose soulful, sassy and snuggly.
It is a combination that perfectly captures her personality.
Georgia is the kind of dog who can make an ordinary day feel brighter simply by being present. Whether she is curled up beside her favorite human, greeting someone new or heading out for an adventure, she brings comfort and happiness wherever she goes.
“Besides being the cutest stinking thing to ever exist, she brings so much joy to every person she meets,” Jacobus says.
That joy is part of what makes Georgia so memorable. She has an easy way of connecting with people and animals alike, greeting the world with a mix of confidence, curiosity and affection.
“Georgia will go anywhere I go,” Jacobus says. “She particularly loves swimming in the bay, and she truly brings joy everywhere she goes. Whether she’s meeting someone new or spending time with family, she has a way of making people smile.”
While some dogs are driven by adventure and others by treats, Georgia seems most motivated by being close to the people she loves.
Still, she does have a favorite activity.
Swimming in the bay ranks high on Georgia’s list of perfect days. There is something about the water that brings out her playful side, and she never passes up an opportunity to make a splash.
When it comes to snacks, Georgia is easy to relate to. The only foods she tends to avoid are fruits and vegetables. Everything else is fair game.
As Jacobus puts it, “The girl loves to snack.”
Like every great cover model, Georgia also has a few memorable quirks that make her unforgettable.
Perhaps her most adorable habit is her morning routine. According to Jacobus, Georgia refuses to properly start her day without hearing her personalized “Good Morning Girl” song. The daily tradition has become an important part of their relationship.
For Jacobus, Georgia is her soul dog.
The two found each other during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when companionship felt more important than ever. Looking back, Jacobus believes she needed Georgia far more than she realized.
Since then, Georgia has been a constant source of comfort, support and unconditional love.
“She always seems to know exactly when I need her,” Jacobus says. “She lifts me up on even my hardest days. I think we’ve been best friends in every lifetime.”
Anyone who has experienced a once-in-a-lifetime bond with a pet understands exactly what she means. Some dogs seem to have an extraordinary ability to sense emotions and provide comfort. They become more than companions; they become trusted friends, confidants and family members.
For Jacobus, Georgia is all of those things.
As Ramapo Valley’s Next Top Doggy Model, Georgia represents the deep connection between people and their pets, along with the joy a beloved dog can bring into everyday life.
For Jacobus, Georgia will always be Bubby, Georgia Peach and her soul dog. For Ramapo Valley, she is officially a cover 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.
“I think we’ve been best friends in every lifetime.” —Francesca Jacobus