Paula Froelich, author and gossip writer for the New York Post has recently released the perfect summer read for Manhattan dream-chasers. Mercury in Retrograde delves into the lives of three women destined to unearth greatness in the Big Apple. Meeting under completely unexpected circumstances their worlds collide, forming a forever-type of friendship. With all of her recent accomplishments one questions her ability to manage it all. Animal Fair spoke with Froelich to clear up any rumors about how she handles such a demanding career and life with her adored Dachshund, Karl.
Spending the majority of her days within the confines of The Post and an even greater amount of time socializing with New York’s finest; Froelich has built a small empire encompassing her personal brand. However, at the end of the day, Froelich would much rather spend time with her Dachshund, Karl. “I always find time for Karl! We hang out in the morning, then he goes to doggie daycare, then I come home to feed and cuddle him before I go out. Weekends are mommy and Karl time.” Spending much of her free time writing Mercury in Retrograde, Karl was even there to help out Froelich when she was struck with the occasional writer’s block. “When I was writing, Karl would sit on top of the sofa and curl around my neck for support.” Like all dogs, Karl is a true team player, but he’s not just any dog; he’s a Dachshund.
For those who don’t already know (and from personal experience as a Dachshund lover myself) this breed is an extraordinary type to own. Known for their courageous, strong-minded, but extremely loyal demeanor these dogs make wonderful companions. Froelich tells us just exactly why she chose to open her New York City apartment to this Dachshund in particular, “I picked Karl because the only other wiener dog I ever knew was named Karl.” “I got a Dachshund because I can’t get a big dog in NYC (I am NOT picking up those poops!), plus Dachshunds just make me laugh. Look at them! They’re hilarious! The front-end has no idea what the back-end is doing.” Owning a dog is no easy feat…for anyone; throw in the fact that you live in Manhattan AND your dog is a Dachshund and you are in a whole different ballgame.
“If you get a Dachshund, you are among an elite group of people who have very refined tastes, but you should expect them to behave like 3 year olds — if they don’t get their way they will grudge poop all over!” Apparently, those ‘grudge poops’ have yet to come between Froelich and Karl. To Froelich, their relationship is still of puppy love existence, “I totally believe in puppy love as Karl is obsessed with me. I should have named him Norman (Bates). Sometimes I’ll wake up and he’s just staring at me. I know he’s dreaming of stuffing me and putting me in a rocker where he can just look at me all day.” Perhaps, Karl is just begging to be taken out for a run in the New York City streets. Contrary to popular belief, even with those short legs, Dachshunds are very physical dogs with surprisingly high levels of stamina.
Historically known as sporting dogs, Dachshunds are frequently involved in track races and are avid runners. However, many precautions are taken as they are very susceptible to back injuries. Maintaining a Dachshund’s weight is imperative to the breed’s health, as the more overweight they are the more likely problems will arise with their back. To keep Karl in good shape, Froelich often gets in strenuous walks with her dog, especially on the weekends; “Karl and I walk everywhere on the weekends. He gets in at least forty blocks every Saturday and Sunday.”
It’s obvious that Froelich’s secrets are safe with Karl and she will always have an exercise partner she can count on. Their friendship is long-lasting and will only continue to grow stronger as Froelich’s career surges ahead. If you’re looking for the perfect weekend activity with your Dachshund, consider taking a long walk to the park and digging into Mercury in Retrograde.
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