Thomas Callahan – Actor, Musician, College Student, and Lifelong Dog Lover
Thomas Callahan has been surrounded by dogs for as long as he can remember. From his childhood Labradors, Jack and Ozzy, to Shelly, his energetic German Shepherd, dogs have been both his protectors and companions.
They’re more than pets to him—they’re family, constant sources of joy, and even co-stars in movie nights under a blanket.
But Thomas is more than just a dog enthusiast—he’s an actor and musician with an emerging career that blends artistry, storytelling, and personal passion.
He’s worked on cool projects with icons like Carrie Underwood for the 2025 NFL Sunday Night Football opening video, and he still remembers the whirlwind of flying back from an overnight shoot in San Francisco to make it to his own high school graduation in Las Vegas that same morning.
When he isn’t on set, Thomas is working on his debut record, a collection of original songs influenced by legends like Phil Collins, Prince, and contemporary pop icons like Selena Gomez.
For him, making music is about creating emotion and connection—the same way acting allows him to make people laugh, cry, and feel something real.
His personal philosophy is simple: “Just be yourself,” a piece of advice he credits to comedian Nikki Glaser, and one he carries through his day-to-day life.
Whether he’s training at Lifetime Fitness in Green Valley, supporting animal charities like PETA, Happy Doggo, and The Animal Foundation, or shooting creative campaigns for brands like Red Dirt Hat Co, Thomas approaches everything with authenticity and heart.
And of course, dogs remain at the center of it all. He believes they are “the ultimate joy in life” and often wonders what Shelly would say if she could talk. His guess? Probably a simple thank-you for the grilled chicken and broccoli dinners, with a treat on the side.
As Thomas looks ahead, he’s focused on releasing his music and sharing his creative journey with a growing audience. “This is only the beginning,” he says. “I can’t wait to share what’s next when the time is right.”
Thomas caught up with K9 Magazine to talk about dogs, work, and life.
Tell us about all the dogs you've loved in your life.
Dogs have been a part of my life since I can remember. It started with Jack and Ozzy, both Labrador Retrievers. They were high-energy, super protective, and were basically my childhood bodyguards—they watched over me as a baby and were always ready for fun.
More recently, there’s Shelly, my German Shepherd. She’s a giant ball of energy. Since I’m part German myself, having a German Shepherd just made sense—haha.
How long have dogs been a major part of your life, and how would you explain their importance to someone who’s never experienced that bond?
They’ve been there since day one. I’d explain the importance of dogs by sharing moments—like when my dog made me laugh out loud, or when she instinctively knew I needed a hug.
The way they fall for the fake ball throw every time... It’s endlessly entertaining.
But more than that, the connection you form with a dog is unmatched. When you find a dog that truly clicks with you, it’s like having a best friend who’s always got your back. It’s priceless.
What are your favorite things to do with your dog(s)?
Throw and retrieve sessions—classic and never gets old.
Movie nights—Shelly’s favorite. She’ll snuggle up under a blanket and eventually doze off while we play a weekly classic.
Bath time—Okay, maybe not Shelly’s favorite, but I secretly enjoy it. Scrubbing her down and finishing with a spritz of Goldie’s vet-approved fragrance? Very satisfying.
What advice would you give someone who wants to follow your career path? What are the best and worst parts of your work?
This one hits home. I never imagined I'd be giving career advice, but here it goes: acting has allowed me to explore so many different worlds and emotions. It’s incredibly rewarding.
Best part? Making people feel something. Watching someone laugh, cry, or connect to a performance—that’s what it’s all about.
Worst part? The downtime. Auditions can be unpredictable—the one you thought you nailed might go nowhere, and the one you stumbled through ends up landing you the job. It's a game of patience.
The best advice I’ve received came from Nikki Glaser: “Just be yourself.” That’s what it’s really all about.
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Quick-fire questions!
Big dogs or little dogs?
Little dogs—but the occasional big dog never hurt anyone.
Calm or high-energy dogs?
Calm dogs.
Rule-followers or rule-breakers?
Definitely the rebellious kind. That would be me as a dog, too.
Stay-by-your-side or run-like-crazy dogs?
I love a companion, so the ones who stick by my side, I love.
Days off or days at work?
Days off, and these are always dedicated to working on my upcoming record.
Fastest route or scenic route?
Scenic route, always—if time allows.
Nighttime or early morning?
Lately, early mornings. I start with a workout at Lifetime Fitness in Green Valley, then a 20-minute swim.
Describe the last time a dog made you laugh out loud.
I saw a video of a golden retriever trying to catch its tail—very slowly. It stalked its tail like it was some mysterious creature, pausing, tilting its head, then continuing the chase.
At one point, it got distracted by a fly and bumped into a couch, then looked straight at the camera like, “Did you see that? I meant to do that.” With circus music playing in the background, it totally cracked me up.
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What do you like to do in your downtime?
I love working on my music. I’m currently finishing my debut record, which combines original songwriting with classic pop influences—think Phil Collins, Selena Gomez, and Prince.
Let us in on a secret very few people know about you.
I’m convinced I can see the future…
Current favorites?
TV Show: Only Murders in the Building
Album: Something Beautiful by Miley Cyrus (besides my own!)
Film: A Rainy Day in New York
Website: K9 Magazine (of course!)
Animal Charities:
PETA– I’ve connected with their mission ever since I was young.
Happy Doggo– Founded in 2021, they provide sterilization, food, and emergency care for street dogs, which is of utmost importance.
The Animal Foundation (Las Vegas)– They focus on finding homes and supporting new pet owners in my very own community.
A product or service that’s changed your life?
Definitely Roam, a fragrance by Red Dirt Hat Co. I even had the chance to shoot my first creative campaign with them, directed by the talented Taquan Rodgers. You can check out a glimpse on my social media: @thomasacallahan.
Most memorable moments from your work?
Two stand out:
Working with Carrie Underwoodon the 2025 NFL Sunday Night Football opening video.
Flying from an overnight job in San Francisco back to Las Vegasthe same morning as my high school graduation. Total whirlwind—but an unforgettable story.
Finish the sentence: “Dogs are…”
Dogs are the ultimate joy in life.
If dogs could talk and you had one question, what would you ask?
I’d ask, “Do you like the food I make for you?”
And I think Shelly would say, “Of course—who wouldn’t love grilled chicken breast and steamed broccoli (with the occasional treat)?”
Final Thoughts
Thanks so much for taking the time to get to know me a little better. I hope this gave you a glimpse into who I really am. There’s more on the horizon, and I’m excited for you to keep an eye, or should I say ear, out for what’s coming next.
Let’s just say, the journey is only just beginning. I’m glad we’ve connected through this, and I can’t wait to share what’s next when the time is right.
Thanks, Thomas!
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