MONTREAL—Tika the Iggy, the Italian greyhound that became a fashion influencer with 1.6 million Instagram followers, sadly, has passed away after surgery.

Her dog dad Tommy Shapiro (with husband Louis), posted on socials that Tika had gone in for surgery to remove two tumors on her liver, which was advised by doctors since the tumors were likely to spread rapidly. After the surgery, Shapiro said Tika was home for a day before her condition declined. Tika was 14 years old.

Shapiro noted that, with senior dogs, there is always a risk with the decision for or against surgery, and they had hoped to be pro-active in seeking treatment for Tika.

With a life that could be described as a diva dog’s dream come true, Tika the Iggy took social media by storm with her leggy, runway model figure, elaborate costumes and canine couture, with outfits often styled after red carpet fashions and iconic movie looks. Her social media popularity led to collabs with major fashion brands, trips down the catwalk at Paris and Milan Fashion Weeks, appearing in campaigns for designers including Dolce & Gabbana, as well as being featured in the pages of Elle and Vogue. She also appeared on talk show “The View” and in a PetSmart commercial.

Tika also authored Tika the Iggy: Lessons in Life, Love and Fashion and a children’s book, and advocated for inclusivity, acceptance and the LGBTQ community.

Shapiro had recently announced Tika’s retirement from fashion with a short video of highlights from her career. The caption read, “After 9 seasons, 12 fashion weeks, 62 outfits, 4 fashion capitals, 9 hotels, 25 flights, and countless taxis and subway rides, I’m officially wrapping up my Fashion Week era.

“At 14 years old, I’m ending on a high,” Tika said.

Rest in style, sweet Queen. At Play Today extends condolences to all of Tika’s family, friends and followers.

Photo: Courtesy of Tika the Iggy’s Facebook page.