Paws, Pets & Metal is Metal Insider’s newest column on bands with pets, discovering who watches them on the road, and more. Get to know more about these metal furbabies. We caught up with Chicago’s Opium Death as they explain how their dogs enjoy listening to Megadeth
Tell us more about your pet(s) and their names?
I have two dogs, Charlie and Estrella, who are both a Morkie and a Morkie-Poo respectively. I picked them up from a breeder not too far from where I live, and both were just puppies at about 8 weeks old. Charlie is the youngest, being 4 weeks younger than Estrella.
Have you ever taken your pet on tour?
As of right now, not yet. I am not sure if I want to since I will need some extra hands to look after band equipment and logistics and with my dogs roaming around wanting to greet everyone they see.
Who looks after your pet while on the road?
When I am not home or out gigging, it is usually my sister or brother who do since both live at home and so they look after them. I was told that Charlie sometimes waits by the door around evening since I get home pretty late, and it is always a great welcome when he is there waving his tail.
What’s your pet’s favorite song or album?
Whenever I help do chores around the house with my mother, I blast Megadeth and they just sit close to the speaker and hang out around there until the music is done. They are not picky, but I noticed that pattern with them.
How did you introduce your pet to metal?
It had to be when I drove them to their first vet appointments, and I had some metal playing in the car decently loud. They did not seem to mind it at first but thought it was cool to see them sit and stare while heavy metal was playing.
What animal charity means most to you?
It would have to be ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) because their philosophy is what I personally believe in the most. I see so many news and notifications across social media about stranded animals or pets that have been treated very poorly and so this group helps to make sure that they are taken care of and provide the help they need before heading to a better home.
