The “Brand of the Month” goes to…

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Each month I give my verdict on who has shown the world an interesting and distinctive brand. My latest personal brand of the month goes to…

Clyde

Here’s why…
I’ve decided to go light and tongue-in-cheek this month by awarding my dog Clyde Brand of the Month.

clyde-with-award

 

What makes Clyde’s brand so strong, you might ask?

You know exactly what he stands for.
Clyde has simple yet strong values. For one, he’s incredibly loyal. He just wants to please and comfort you. After all, he’s proven himself again and again as a silent, strong support for his family during difficult times. This also reflects his dependability; he’ll always be there for you, offering his nonjudgmental, unconditional love and acceptance when needed the most.

He knows how to make a first impression. clyde-with-squeeky
Clyde never greets anyone empty-handed (well, empty-mouthed); he will always welcome you with one of his prized bones or toys to celebrate your arrival. He’s always excited to see you, so much so that his powerful wagging tail is the most dangerous thing about him. Instead of a handshake, he will just quietly sit on your foot.

He has impeccable personal presence.
Clyde knows how to work a room, particularly if it’s a party. This has made him very popular with our guests (unlike our other little dog who needs to work on his branding and therefore doesn’t get invited to the party!). Like any considerate party guest, he also knows when it’s time to make an exit and go to his bed.


clyde-at-christmas-dinner


He has a good social media presence.
Clyde may not have his own Twitter or Instagram accounts, but his pictures get some of the most attention on Facebook. And while I’m the one curating his “digital footprint” (paw print?), his popularity is down to his cuteness and personality. He’s super photogenic and has some great faces.

His passion shines through.
Clyde loves a good squeaky toy or ball. Just the mere sight of these will bring a sparkle to his eye. He also adores runs by the seaside. But above all, he ranks food (pretty much any type), as his top passion. When particularly excited by the cuisine, he will literally sing for his supper, in addition to performing a few choice tricks.

clyde-running-with-ball

 

He knows how to leave his mark.clyde-silouette1
Well, in more than one way! Sure, he makes it a point to be remembered and has his own signature way of doing so when we go on walks. But he also leaves his mark through artwork.

He’s been a very willing subject for photo shoots and is proudly featured in artwork such as this Carter Kustera (for Jonathan Adler) silhouette.

His cute mug has also been captured in sketches, like the one below with his partner in crime Reggie (2016), which have appeared on Christmas cards (and in a frame in his papa’s office!).

 

clyde-in-gardenClyde strikes a relaxed pose for a photo shoot;  Bobby Cray Photography

 

His story is one of resilience.
We rescued Clyde from the New York City ASPCA in 2006. He was in quite a state after what we believe was a year or two of severe neglect. Apparently his situation was so extreme that they filmed his rescue for an episode of “Animal Precinct” (not his ideal television debut). But Clyde proved to be quite a resilient guy, and he is now loving life in London!

Time to learn some manners! Clyde’s first day at school.

He has a socially responsible side.
Clyde began to develop the socially responsible side of his brand shortly after his rescue, when he participated in an AIDS walk in New York City. He also volunteered at a London art fair, “Mutate London”, a few years ago.

clyde-in-hoodie2
Clyde at a NYC AIDS walk shortly after adoption

 

bud-with-vestClyde with fellow volunteers at “Mutate London”

And a little known fact…he’s been in a theatre production!
Clyde participated in the hit experiential theatre production “You Me Bum Bum Train” a few years back. Even though he isn’t a pedigree kind of guy, he was handsome and personable enough to get cast as an “entry” for a Crufts dog show scene, with me and another friend as his handler. Although a little blurry, here’s the photo of him during his “onstage” debut.

He’s also an amazing co-brand.
Pure and simple.

 

weekend-in-the-countryside-with-clyde

Lisa

6 Comments

6 thoughts on “The “Brand of the Month” goes to…”

  1. Patti says:

    Nicely written! This is how we feel about Bailey and the difference he makes in ours lives. He is family! I could never understand why people do not care for dogs or any type of pet. When I dated, way back when, if the Young man I was dating didn’t like animals or children, I knew he was not for me.

  2. Henry Lane says:

    Great, I wish all dog owners could relate to this. I know my family can. It’s so unfortunate that so many dogs suffer because of being neglected and mistreated by humankind.

  3. Joe Orban says:

    For the love of dogs…

  4. Addie says:

    Great post and fitting for the coolest dog on the planet!

  5. Addie says:

    I can’t believe I missed this first time around! All so true. Rest in peace King Clyde!❤️❤️

  6. aliceson says:

    RIP Clyde. An inspiration!

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