Dogs that Rich Enough to Even Makes You Envy
2009-01-06

Leona Helmsley's little dog Trouble should lawyer up.

That's according to attorney, Helmsley family friend and pet-trust specialist Rachel Hirschfeld, who says the Queen of Mean's persnickety princess is getting royally messed over by Helmsley's lawyers and family.

"It's outrageous what's happening here," she said, citing a report in yesterday's Post that Trouble isn't even living with the man Helmsley asked to take care of her, her brother, Alvin Rosenthal.

Instead, the poor little rich dog - to which Helmsley left $12 million in her will - is holed up at her late owner's Connecticut estate, where she's being tended to by Helmsley's housekeepers and other hired help.

A knowledgeable source said Trouble is staying at the 28-room mansion because Rosenthal "doesn't want it."

Hirschfeld said that's not right - and the judge who's handling Helmsley's estate, Surrogate's Court Judge Renee Roth, should appoint the pampered pet her own lawyer to make sure her rights are protected and Helmsley's wishes are carried out.

Appointing a lawyer for the dog would be unusual, but not unprecedented - a judge in Tennessee appointed a lawyer for a dog caught in a custody battle between his dead owner's parents earlier this year.

Dog lover: Paris Hilton and her pet chihuahua

Paris Hilton, Britney Spears and Sharon Osbourne are all known to be fans of the Mexican dogs.

Chihuahua owners are twice as likely as keepers of other breeds to fork out on fresh meat, vegetables and gravy for their dog's dinner.

They also have a pronounced weakness for costly jewelled collars for their pets, designer doggie-outfits and bespoke pet beds.

The total bill, including veterinary costs, pet food, grooming, kennels and insurance, is said to come to £6,081 a year - or £88,691 over the chihuahua's 13-year average lifespan.

That compares with the £31,000 typically spent by owners of other breeds - £2,388 a year.

Mike Pickard, head of pet insurance at esure, which commissioned the research, said: "Today's household pets are treated more like members of the family and this new attitude is reflected in the amount owners spend on their pet's lifestyle.