In Remembrance: Giggy Vanderpump

Giggy Vanderpump, the First Dog of Bravo, has sadly passed away at the age of 10. I’ve never been much of a small dog person, but Giggy’s personality and presence were magnetic (and his outfits were impeccable). Who could forget Lisa calling him a sex machine every other episode in early seasons of RHOBH? Or when he made Adrienne Maloof so jealous that she got her own dog, Jackpot, to “rival” him? Iconic. Simply iconic. No one could touch Giggy, and he knew it.

art by Alyssa Kurtzman

His impact went beyond the small screen, too, when he inspired Lisa to found Vanderpump Dogs, which is approx. 10 minutes away from my apartment. I’ve walked in a few times (pre-COVID, of course), and can confirm it’s a real, functional rescue/shop that’s definitely placing pups in fabulous homes all over WeHo. I have nothing but respect for this little bundle of sass and swagger, and hope the Vanderpump family can take solace in the fact that he really brought so much to both Real Housewives and Vanderpump Rules. I created this simple but elegant doggie meal in his honor — rest easy, Giggs.

This recipe has been Maki tested and approved.

RECIPE

INGREDIENTS 

Adjust size based on your pup — Maki is 45 lbs, and this was a good breakfast for her. Also, I’m not a vet! All of these ingredients are generally considered dog-safe, but you should always consult with your vet if you’re unsure of testing out a new food with your dog.

• 1 chicken thigh or breast

• 1/3 cup rice

• 1/2 apple

• Sage leaves

INSTRUCTIONS

Bring plain water to a boil in a medium saucepan and add chicken to “poach” it for 5-10 minutes, or until thoroughly cooked through. Meanwhile, prepare rice (no salt or spices!). Slice up an apple in bite-sized chunks.

When cool, combine chicken, rice, apple, and sage. Give your pup an extra pet after serving.