Occasionally, we see a mash-up name that perfectly bridges the divide and describes a dog in a way that … well, it’s wacky. Meet Lil’ Richard Simmons Sweatin’ to the Oldies, an homage to two eccentric icons of wacky American culture, Little Richard and Richard Simmons.
The name originated from Lil’ Richard the dog’s unique coat texture. “Lil' Richard is part wire-haired dachshund and part toy poodle (allegedly),” his mom, Nationwide member Jess G., says. “His body has the coarse and wiry hair of the dachshund, and from the neck up he has these crazy curls—so his hair is reminiscent of both Little Richard’s legendary coif and Richard Simmons’ blond curls.”
Lil’ Richard Simmons’ name isn’t the only wacky thing about him. Like both of his namesakes, he’s got personality and a high-energy intensity—which sometimes manifests in truly unique and wacky ways. Jess continues, “Lil’ Richard is afraid of utensils and cups. He will not lick a fork or enjoy a pup cup from the cup. If offered food in anything smaller than his bowl, like a ramekin, he runs and hides.”
Sweatin’ to the Oldies isn’t the only way to stay healthy. For Jess, the decision to get pet insurance for her toy mixed-breed dog was an easy one: “I want my pets to have the best veterinary care possible. I know I don't have to worry about unexpected costs and can get them the best care they deserve.”
Jess G. Nationwide member since 2019
