Photo by Gabriel Garcia

This Dog Owner Profile is a part of our series featuring local dog owners in San Antonio, and is sponsored by Broadway Bank. 

Name: Maricela Martinez

Occupation: Owner of The Waggery Southtown & Sales Excellence Lead, H&PS for Accenture

Dog’s Name & Breed: Wookie, Shih Tzu

How did your dog become a part of your life?

Wookie was actually a stray who wandered into our lives off the streets of the Southside. It was Thanksgiving 2014, we were at a relatives house playing games outside, and all of a sudden this dog comes out of nowhere. We all thought she belonged to someone else because of how comfortable this dog seemed around everyone—she even wandered straight into the house! But we all quickly realized that she was a stray.

As the night went on, we all knew this dog couldn’t be left alone. Funny enough, my husband (boyfriend at the time) and I were planning on adopting in the new year, and we felt this was ‘a sign,’ so of course we took her home with us that night—and the rest is history!

Hispanic woman in white dress sitting in chair by green ivy with a Shitzu dog in her lap
Photo by Gabriel Garcia

What makes your dog unique?

She truly is the definition of  ‘Netflix and Chill.’ Wookie loves to just hang out on the couch and be lazy. Even when she goes outside, it’s not to play, but to lay in the sun.

What’s your favorite way to spoil your dog?

She’s a simple gal—love, walks, and car rides are all she wants. She’s not food motivated, so treats aren’t the way to her heart, but let her spread out on the couch next to you, take a long walk or go on a nice car ride, and she’s in heaven.

Photo by Gabriel Garcia

What’s the most rewarding thing about being a dog owner for you?

The pure joy and excitement in Wookie’s behavior when she sees us is everything. She was a dog who was alone on the streets, and now she’s just so happy to be loved. It’s because of her that we’ve fostered many dogs over the years and helped find loving homes for them.

Tell us about your favorite thing to do with your dog in San Antonio.

Honestly, Wookie loves being at The Waggery and I love when she’s there with me. She gets so excited with everyone who comes in the door and she’s just the best greeter.

Wookie is the reason The Waggery exists. Wanting the best for her led to me wanting to provide the best for all other dog mamas.