Gabriel Iglesias, Who Paid $100K for His Dog's Quinceañera, Welcomes New Pup After Losing Two Pets
This year, Iglesias welcomed a teacup Chihuahua, Roka, to his family. The tiny black dog arrived at a sensitive time. Iglesias recently mourned the loss of his two beloved Chihuahuas, Vinnie and Risa.
Risa is likely known to many, especially fans of Iglesias, as the canine the comedian treated to a $100K quinceñera when the dog turned 15. She died in September 2024 at the age of 16.
Unfortunately, Risa and Vinnie developed health problems around the same time, which made their close-together losses difficult on their devoted dog dad.
"While finding out that Risa had serious kidney issues, we discovered that Vinnie also had his own health issues. It was months of going back and forth to the ER before they both unfortunately passed away. I was grateful to have them for as many years as I did. The last eight years, they literally became my road dogs. They toured with me everywhere, visiting 40+ states," Iglesias tells PEOPLE of the impact of his late pets.
Initially, the plan was to welcome a new pup to his pack before Vinnie and Risa died, but the timing didn't work out.
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"I have had a Chihuahua in my life since I was 12 years old. At times, I have had more than one Chihuahua at a time. Bringing a new dog into the mix is something I have done in the past. I knew, based on my dogs' ages and health issues, that I needed to do this sooner rather than later. Unfortunately, Roka arrived after losing both Risa and Vinnie," he explains.
Iglesias is happy Roka is here now. Her youthful energy and love have been a balm for the star as he continues to grieve Vinnie and Risa.
"The amount of energy a puppy has compared to a senior dog is night and day. It reminds me that I'm not getting any younger," Igelsias shares. "All she wants to do is play, explore, and chew on things. She has more toys than I ever had as a child. All of her puppy energy does not allow for being sad, as I am too out of breath from chasing her."
Roka has been a rock for Iglesias this summer and has stepped in as the comedian's go-to travel companion.
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"Roka has already been to 15 states and two countries. The goal is to hit all 50 states," the pet parent shares.
"She is sweet and loving with a select few. Full of energy and bark! Curious and playful! And has me wrapped around her paw!" Iglesias adds.
Read the original article on People
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