Photography by Marcel Dagenais
Story by Adriana Rizzolo and Dracula

It was only last summer I was living a dog-less life, now I can’t imagine living without Dracula. I adopted him almost a year ago because I felt ready to undergo the responsibilities of nurturing a being other than myself. It’s amazing how this responsibility has grounded me, bringing a newfound balance in my life heretofore unheard of especially in a city that ceaselessly distracts. His boundless love has opened up a well of endless joy within me. The age-old adage is true, Dracula’s come to mirror me not only in appearance but lifestyle: he loves getting dirty amidst nature before a cleansing bath followed by a feast of carrots and bananas. He too relishes a good time, lapping up spilled booze and kissing smelly, bearded boys; his morning snuggle spoonfest beating any cup of tea. Like any loving owner, I could go on for hours about my pet. Being that Dracula’s favorite things to do include: tearing shit up, drinking beer, and smelling butts, I thought it would be fun to find out what his friends around the neighborhood had to say.

Doug and Simon

What part of the hood do you live in? Greenpoint

How long have you had Simon? Two years

How did you decide on his name? He came with it from the shelter and responded well to it, so I kept it.

What made you want to get a dog? He started out as a foster dog and then I decided to keep him. I’ve always grown up with dogs so it seemed natural to have one.

Do you think you resemble each other, looks/personality wise? Personality wise I think we are similar, but he’s much more handsome.

What’s your dog’s favorite thing to do? He likes to do puppy spins which is where he runs back and forth on the couch spinning in circles. He also likes swimming.

What do you love most about him? His progress since he left the shelter, and his personality. He’s my best friend.

If your dog could give Dracula one word of advice, what would it be? Don’t put up with my shit.

Stephanie and Lady

What part of the hood do you live in? Williamsburg

How long have you had Lady? Two years

How did you decide on her name? She was already named Lady when I got her. She definitely is a little lady.

What made you want to get a dog? Honestly my roomy saved Lady from the pound. She brought her home intentionally wanting to give her a new home. She asked me if I wanted her, and I said Yes!

Do you think you resemble each other, looks/personality wise? Yes we do! She is friendly and so sweet.

What’s your dog’s favorite thing to do? She loves running and playing with other dogs, belly rubs and cuddling.

What do you love most about her? How loving she is. She has human-like characteristics, it’s like having a daughter that doesn’t talk back.

If your dog could give Dracula one word of advice, what would it be? Register your pet to be a service animal so you can take them anywhere you want! National Animal Service. Google it.

Leo and Sir Winston

What part of the hood do you live in? Greenpoint

How long have you had Winston? Seven years

How did you decide on his name? My wife picked it.

What made you want to get a dog? I’ve always had them.

Do you think you resemble each other, looks/personality wise? I don’t think so.

What’s your dog’s favorite thing to do? He likes to play with his toys.

What do you love most about him? His kindness

If your dog could give Dracula one word of advice, what would it be? Be good.

Fonlin and Satchel

What part of the hood do you live in? Williamsburg

How long have you had Satchel? Two Years

How did you decide on his name? He is named after Satchel Paige the baseball player.

What made you want to get a dog? He came with my boyfriend.

Do you think you resemble each other, looks/personality wise? Nope. We could not be more different.

What’s your dog’s favorite thing to do? Eat meat and lie on the bed.

What do you love most about him? His beautiful eyes and sorrowful smile.

If your dog could give Dracula one word of advice, what would it be? Don’t sweat the small stuff blackie.

Alex and Isis

What part of the hood do you live in? Greenpoint

How long have you had Isis? Sixteen months

How did you decide on her name? She came with it, but I liked it.

What made you want to get a dog? I just got the idea one day.

Do you think you resemble each other, looks/personality wise? Were both a little skittish.

What’s your dog’s favorite thing to do? When I sing the belly rub song.

What do you love most about her? That she lets me sing it.

If your dog could give Dracula one word of advice, what would it be? Don’t eat people food.