CHECKING IN WITH Kathy Jones:

Kathy Jones hasn’t spent much of her life away from pets. The Dana Point resident, who took over two years ago as manager of the Muttropolis boutique at Fashion Island, splits her time between doting on her animals at home and providing toys, clothes and other items to pet owners around Orange County.

This Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Muttropolis plans to celebrate Valentine’s Day by setting up a dog-kissing booth where owners can have their canines photographed in style for free. Kissing itself isn’t mandatory, but any customer can make a $5 donation to the Irvine Animal Care Cente.

Jones, who grew up in Ohio and has worked in retail for two decades, spoke to the Daily Pilot between preparations for the big day.

So you call yourself a pet boutique. What’s the weirdest item you’ve ever carried?

The first thing that comes to mind is strollers, but it’s not so weird anymore. Maybe it’s weird in some parts of the country or from some people’s points of view, but some people still giggle when they see a dog in a stroller. They’re quite fashionable, though, these days.

Do you own any pets?

I have three pets. I have two dogs, my beagles, Parker and Posey.

Named after your favorite actress?

Actually, no. When I got them, I got them through a beagle rescue group, and they’d already been given those names. But I do like Parker Posey.

Any others?

I have one cat. Her name is Maui. I’d like to have a lot more, but I have neighbors. They wouldn’t appreciate it.

Did you grow up in a house with a lot of pets?

I have never not had a dog.

What other breeds have you had?

Mostly poodles. I was raised with poodles. But now I’m on my second set of beagles. I just love beagles. I think they’re so cute. But a lot of people buy them because they’re so adorable, and then they find out they bark, so a lot of them end up in rescue groups.

Have you ever kissed a dog?

Of course! Daily.

I’ve never done that, honestly. What does it feel like?

Very good. Very nice.

What’s something most people don’t realize about pets until they actually own one?

They have to go for walks. It’s so important. If you walk them regularly, they’re going to behave a lot better in your home. They’re fulfilled. They’re not bored anymore.

Is it possible to walk a cat?

We do sell harnesses for cats, but no, I don’t walk mine. I think if you started them young, they would probably get used to it.

MICHAEL MILLER may be reached at (714) 966-4617 or at [email protected].