Our eight-pound chihuahua has proudly held the title of our favorite (and only) child for more than three years. Even though Burger is about to face some competition in May, there’s no mistaking how deeply we adore our little dog. He’s already immortalized in our home: three separate portraits hang on the wall of the third bedroom, the space that will become the nursery.
And thanks to a bit of planning, the generosity of a giveaway sponsor, and our affection for everything Burger-related, the nursery will soon gain another tribute to the tiniest Petersik. Meet Burger the Zoonie—a handcrafted felt version of our chihuahua that will sit beside the other mementos of his reign as top pet.
To explain how this came about: you may remember a recent giveaway from Eleni Creative, the maker of custom felt mobiles and stuffed animals known as Zoonies. Sherry and I were immediately taken with their work. Their creations are genuinely charming, and after seeing the winner’s custom “flying elephant” mobile, we were convinced of their skill and creativity.
After the giveaway, I reached out to Eleni’s talented felt maker and asked if she could create a custom piece inspired by Burger. I wanted it to be a surprise for Sherry, and I hoped a tiny felt Burger would be a playful and sentimental addition to our growing family’s keepsakes. Instead of finding me ridiculous, she graciously offered to make the piece as a thank-you gift. Before beginning, she sent a whimsical sketch of our Zoonified pup for our approval so we could confirm the style and features matched Burger’s personality.
Two months later, after our second ultrasound appointment, I handed Sherry the wrapped present as we left the doctor’s office. We were both elated—the latest scan confirmed the baby was doing well and moving like a tiny gymnast—so the timing felt right to celebrate the moment. Presenting the felt Burger then felt symbolic: a way to share our joy and to mark the beginning of a new chapter while still honoring the little dog who has been our constant companion.
That day I gave Sherry our baby’s first stuffed animal: a handcrafted, felted version of the chihuahua who has held the top spot in our hearts for years. Her reaction was priceless—she went absolutely bonkers with delight, jumping and screaming in the sort of genuine joy that makes memories unforgettable. Even Burger was intrigued, though he’s still trying to figure out what to make of his miniature felt counterpart. The baby, of course, won’t recognize either of them for a while, but this felted pup will be one of the earliest tokens of the family the child inherits.
We like to think this little felt Burger may help the transition from one “favorite child” to two. Perhaps someday the real dog and the baby will share the mantle of most-loved family member, and maybe the toy will be a bridge that helps them bond. For now, we’re simply thrilled to have another tangible reminder of how much Burger means to us—and a sweet keepsake that will join the nursery’s growing collection of mementos.
What about you? Have your pets inspired any home decor or keepsakes over the years? Many people frame photos of their dogs or cats, display silhouettes, or create personalized pillows with images of their pets. Others commission ceramic figurines or bespoke portraits to place on mantels or shelves. We’d love to hear how your four-legged companions are celebrated in your home—whether through art, textiles, custom toys, or special displays, every pet’s story deserves a place in the house.