Managing a Pet Influencer: An Interview with Jodie Keisel, Dog Mom of Miley Jo the Chorkie

In the ever-expanding world of pet influencers, Miley Jo the Chorkie is a rising star with a bright future. A social media darling with nearly 100,000 Instagram followers, Miley Jo has become a beloved figure in the pet community, not only for her dazzling fashion sense but also for her heartwarming story.

Behind the tiny star is Jodie Keisel, Miley Jo’s devoted mom and manager who — despite recently being diagnosed with breast cancer — continues to manage Miley Jo and guide her pup’s journey from an unexpected gift to a full-fledged brand.

Miley Jo’s Journey

The story of Miley Jo starts years ago when Keisel was facing another dark moment in her life. For Keisel, Miley Jo’s arrival was quite the surprise.

“I was grieving the loss of my cat, André, who had lost his battle with stomach cancer,” Keisel recalled. “It was devastating, and my boss at the time could see how much I was struggling.”

To lift Keisel’s spirits, her boss surprised her with a teacup Chorkie — a half-Chihuahua, half-Yorkie puppy.

However, there was a catch.

“When I got her, she was supposed to be 9 weeks old, but I knew right away she was much younger,” Keisel explained. A vet visit confirmed her suspicions — Miley Jo was only 4 weeks old, taken from her mother far too soon.

Determined to give the tiny pup the best start possible, Keisel became a helicopter mom.

“She never touched the ground outside until she had all her vaccines. She missed out on learning from her littermates, but instead, she was dressing up, posing for photos and bonding with us.”

This early start set the stage for Miley Jo’s future as a social media star.

The Accidental Influencer

Unlike many influencers who set out with a strategic plan, Miley Jo’s rise to fame was organic.

“I started posting pictures of her in cute outfits to send to my mom,” Keisel said. “My mom kept saying, ‘She should be a model!’”

Encouraged by her mother’s enthusiasm, Keisel created a Facebook page for Miley Jo, which quickly gained traction. Realizing the potential, she expanded to Instagram — and from there, things took off.

“She was influencing almost immediately,” Keisel said. “Brands started reaching out, sending us products to try. I’ve always been selective, though. If I wouldn’t use it myself or find it safe for Miley Jo, I won’t promote it.”

Over time, Miley Jo evolved from an influencer to a brand of her own.

“She’s a natural in front of the camera. She’s CGC-certified, highly trained, and just thrives in the spotlight,” Keisel explained.

The Chorkie has graced the red-carpet countless times and shined at New York Fashion Week, Los Angeles Fashion Week with such fashion icons as Pet Couturier, Anthony Rubio and Parisian Pet.

A Day in the Life of a Pet Influencer

According to Keisel, managing Miley Jo’s brand is a full-time commitment.

“I run all her social media platforms — posting, responding, interacting with followers, and coordinating collaborations,” she explained. “It’s time-consuming, and I’ve hired assistants before, but it just didn’t feel right. I may try again in the future.”

As for their daily routine, no two days are the same.

“Mornings start with Miley Jo demanding breakfast,” Keisel laughed. “Once she’s eaten, I grab my French Vanilla Cappuccino, and we head to the patio to catch up on social media. She plays with her squirrel friends through the screened-in patio before taking a nap.”

From there, the day unfolds based on their schedule — errands, photoshoots, meetings, or brand collaborations. “Even something as simple as an oil change turns into a fun outing with pictures,” Keisel said. “We always make time for fun.”

Miley Jo’s Creative Process

When it comes to content, Miley Jo’s personality leads the way.

“Her personality is sweet, with a side of humor, sarcasm, and just a little diva attitude,” Keisel shared. “She prefers custom clothes and high-end boutique wear, but she has a separate closet for influencing so I can focus on the product rather than crediting designers.”

Trends influence some content, but Miley Jo’s unique charm shines through in everything.

“She’s a ‘go with the flow’ kind of girl — whether it’s a high-energy day or a relaxed one, she’s happy,” Keisel added.

Highlights & Challenges

From walking the runway at New York and Los Angeles Fashion Weeks to starring in national campaigns, Miley Jo’s career has had countless memorable moments.

“Our favorite collaboration was with Snuggle Puppy,” Keisel said. “It’s not just a toy — it has a heartbeat and warming pack that comforts dogs. Miley Jo even helped her rescue sister, Fergie Mak, adjust to her new home by bringing the Snuggle Puppy to her. That was really special.”

Despite the glitz and glamour, influencer life isn’t without its challenges.

“The industry is highly competitive,” Keisel admitted. “Some brands expect influencers to promote products in exchange for free items, and many new influencers are willing to accept that. But if you’re paying for shipping, you’re not an influencer — you’re a buyer.”

Keisel explains that she is selective about the partnerships Miley Jo takes on, noting: “We’ll occasionally do product-only collaborations, but usually only if the brand is giving back to animals in need or it’s a product we truly love.”

Like any public figure, Miley Jo has faced her share of negativity online.

“I don’t waste time on it — I just delete and block,” Keisel explained. “It’s not worth engaging.”

Balancing authenticity with brand collaborations is another challenge.

“If it’s not fun, why do it?” Keisel asked. “I used to take on more rigid partnerships, but now, if I can’t be creative and have fun with it, it’s not for us.”

Advice for Aspiring Influencers

For pet parents hoping to turn their furry friends into social media stars, Keisel offers this advice:

1. Be selective – Work with brands that align with your values and avoid deals that don’t respect your time and worth.
2. Keep it fun – If your pet isn’t enjoying the process, it’s not the right path.
3. Know your pet’s limits – Not every animal thrives in the spotlight. Make sure they’re comfortable before pursuing events or collaborations.
4. Stay authentic – Promote products you truly believe in, not just what pays the most.

“She’s living the dream,” Keisel said with a smile. “And I’m just along for the ride.”

Miley Jo’s journey from a surprise puppy to a social media sensation is a testament to passion, dedication and a little bit of sparkle. In a rapidly evolving digital world, pet influencers like Miley Jo remind us that authenticity — and a fabulous wardrobe — can go a long way.

And as long as she’s having fun, this little Chorkie’s star will only continue to rise.

A successful fashion model for 25 years, Ashley Carestia also is founder/CEO of Bark Fifth Avenue, a luxury retail boutique and brand. She has earned the respect of her colleagues through arduous work and dedication, being awarded the Small Business of the Year Award by the Atlanta Women’s Chamber of Commerce, the Women of Influence award from Pet Age and Entrepreneur of the Year by Women in The Pet Industry.