Few bands capture New Noise‘s punk-rock spirit than The Ataris, who are now in their 31st year (gulp!). Like every punk band, it’s not easy to last that long as a punk band. Musicians of that hyperactive persuasion are often more devoted to creating loud, catchy songs than taking care of their own health.
But Ataris’ frontman, Kristopher Roe, has a secret to keeping himself happy, healthy, and sane. Rather, he derives superhero invincibility from his beloved cat, probably through some invisible form of osmosis.
In catching up with Roe earlier this month, mere days before they are to head out on tour, New Noise relearns the core responsibilities that a pet owner must carry out to ensure the health and well-being of their animal companions. That fact shines through in Ataris’ latest album, Silver Turns to Rust, which also illuminated his special relationship with his pets.
How did Petunia enter your life?
I lost my former French bulldog, Gracie, in early 2020. I had been searching for a new Frenchie for a while but wasn’t having any luck through rescues. In early 2021, you my best friend Chris located a pair of French bulldogs living in less-than-optimal conditions on a farm in Mexicali, Mexico. So, I drove 1,000 miles to rescue them both. Since I wasn’t able to care for both dogs, I gave the second one (now named Molly) to Chris and his partner Liz for helping me find them.
What inspired such a great name?
Petunia was the nickname I used to call my former French bulldog, Gracie—so it’s an homage to her. Gracie snorted like a little pig, and so does Petunia. The name came from the old cartoon character, Petunia the Pig.
What was the most challenging aspect of training Petunia (presuming you trained her well)?
As most Frenchie owners know, they have their own goofy—and very stubborn—little personalities. But with patience, praise, and simple, clear commands, I was able to teach her how to sit, stay, and more.
Can you relate a difficult period when Petunia comforted you in a way only a great dog can?
In 2020, I got COVID for six weeks, ended up in the hospital, and nearly died. I lived alone in a very isolated place and suffered from long COVID symptoms for many months. Around the same time, I also went through a really difficult separation with my partner of several years. Getting Petunia was a huge help in the ongoing healing from those hard times.
She is great, right? What makes her so?
All dogs are great—obviously! 🙂 Petunia is the most chill, laid-back dog you could ever ask for. She’s super low-maintenance, loves cuddling, and enjoys lying around watching all our favorite shows—punctuated by the occasional road trip or short walk around the neighborhood. She’s the perfect life partner for me.
What’s the biggest mess Petunia has ever made?
Dis bish absolutely hates the rain. Ha. If it’s raining, she’ll step one foot outside, look around, and go … NOPE. Then she’ll literally turn right back around and head inside. A couple of years back, it rained for, like, two weeks straight, and she refused to go out. So during those times, you have to watch her like a hawk, or she’ll get up to no good, ha.
What’s the funniest moment you can recall involving Petunia?
Well, as we know, all dogs look cute in costumes. She wears a hoodie from Spark Paws 24/7, but I’ll always get joy and laughs out of seeing her dressed as Yoda or E.T. for Halloween. Last year, I even drove her up to the actual house from E.T. in Tujunga, CA, just so she could take a photo in front of it.
What’s the most frightening moment you can recall involving Petunia?
Thankfully, I haven’t had many scares with her. She’s getting up there in age, but I feel very lucky—She has a good vet, and at her recent checkup, they said she’s in good health and still snorting along.
Who is Petunia’s best friend, other than you? Does she take kindly to strangers?
My good friends Chris and Liz—who have the other Frenchie from the farm—are definitely in her circle. They used to look after her when I was on tour. Recently, since I’ve been finishing The Ataris’ new album out of state each month, my bass player Mike and his partner have been watching her while I’m away recording. I’m really grateful to have such wonderful friends. They all love Petunia and take great care of her.
Do you believe animals have a soul? What makes you think so?
I’d make the case that animals probably have more of a soul than a lot of humans—ha ha. But seriously—who knows? I like to think they do. At the very least, they definitely brighten my soul and the souls of so many others. I’m incredibly grateful to all the wonderful dogs out there who constantly put a smile on my face—especially when I’m feeling down or caught in an endless doom-scroll of cat and dog videos. Thanks for the interview.
Go here to check out the previous installment of Pet Sounds, in which power-polo solo artist Michael Younker gushes over his two-and-a-half year-old kitty.
Check out Ataris’ Bandcamp page to stream and buy their records new and old
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