Chief Joy Officers: Meet Pepper + Tilly
NATIONAL PET DAY AT VERMONT FLANNEL
Let's start simple. What are your official job titles here at Vermont Flannel?
Pepper: Honestly, our titles are a little unofficial—but we like to think of ourselves as Chief Joy Officers. Wherever we go, smiles tend to follow.
Tilly: Our main responsibility is keeping spirits high—we’re compensated in treats, belly rubs, and the occasional “good boy/girl,” so it’s a pretty sweet gig.
What does a typical “workday” look like for you both? Be honest—how much of it involves napping?
We waddle into the office and immediately get to work—after all, we’re herders, so greeting and keeping everyone together (and properly supervised) is kind of our specialty. It’s a big responsibility… which is why we have to nap. A lot. Pretty sure our contract requires at least five naps a day.
Pepper: I prefer cozy, tucked-away spots. They even set me up with a crate made from a jumbo shipping box, which is basically my dream office.
Tilly: I like to stay close to my coworkers (and especially Dad). If there are feet nearby, that’s where you’ll find me. I’m what you’d call a people Corgi.
Who’s the better employee: Pepper or Tilly?
We like to keep things competitive—but honestly, we’re a pretty strong team. We just have different specialties.
Pepper: I bring the energy. I’m the muscle and the voice. I keep everyone engaged with hands-on activities—usually by delivering a toy and politely (but persistently) requesting a game of fetch. It’s great for morale. Keeps people sharp. They love it… eventually.
Tilly: I focus more on wellness. I specialize in cuddles, quick check-ins, and general stress relief. No one should have to relax alone—that’s just not good workplace culture. I also supervise lunches very closely. Someone has to make sure every bite is handled safely, and I take that responsibility very seriously.
How do you feel about flannel—strictly for humans, or have you claimed a few pieces as your own?
Pepper: Oh, definitely not just for humans. With a double coat, I have to be strategic—full flannel might be a bit much, but a bandana? Perfect. Keeps me looking sharp without overheating. I like to think it adds a certain professionalism… especially on my walks down Church Street.
Tilly: I wear mine purely for the fashion. People stop and ask what I’m wearing, and as a Vermonter, there’s really only one answer—flannel, of course. I’m especially into the new Earth plaid bandana right now. It’s very on-trend for the season… and I like to think I wear it better than most.
What’s your go-to move when you find a freshly folded flannel blanket?
We’re both completely aligned on this one. The first step is to politely—but immediately—unfold it. Then we do a little front-paw shuffling to get the mound just right. After that, a few careful circles, a final inspection… and then we collapse onto it for a well-earned nap. We assume that’s what freshly folded flannel is for.
If you had to describe Vermont Flannel in three words, what would they be?
Pepper: Playful.
Tilly: Stylish
Both: Paw-some!
What’s been your biggest workplace challenge so far?
Pepper: Staying focused when there’s just so much to sniff. Every corner has a new smell, every desk has potential treasures, and honestly… naptime calls too often.
Tilly: Balancing “professional herder” duties with “curious corgi” instincts is harder than it looks.
How do you contribute to team morale around here?
Pepper: I keep the energy high. Toys, games, and the occasional bark help everyone stay alert and entertained. I like to think of myself as the team’s unofficial hype corgi—no one can resist a quick game of fetch or a playful nudge.
Tilly: I’m more of the calm support. I dish out cuddles, check-ins, and moral support when deadlines get ruff. If someone’s stressed, I’m right there at their feet, ready to help them relax… or at least provide some adorable supervision.
If you could design your own flannel pattern, what would it look like?
Pepper: Mine would be all about adventure—deep forest greens, trail browns, and a dash of maple syrup amber. Kind of like Earth! Maybe throw in a few tiny paw prints sneaking through the pattern, so everyone knows who’s really exploring Vermont.
Tilly: I’d go for something cozy and cheerful—sunset oranges, cranberry reds, and soft snowy whites. And of course, little corgi silhouettes prancing around, celebrating Vermont’s charm and the perfect cuddle vibe.
Final question: Any advice for humans looking to improve their work-life balance?
Pepper: Nap more. Seriously. Even the busiest day gets better with a few good rest breaks—and don’t forget to check in on your coworkers along the way. Play a little, stretch a lot, and never underestimate the power of a well-timed belly rub, or do they prefer shoulder rubs?
Tilly: Slow down and enjoy the moment. Sit with friends, savor small joys, and remember—sometimes the best productivity boost is just a little love and comfort at your feet.