Some friends of ours were minding some dogs, who were actually with a DCH carer – but the DCH carer was also on holidays. It was in the lead up to Christmas, 2006. Our friends had a Christmas party, with lots of folks over for a celebration. There was this goofy black puppy, that was all legs and ears, and like everyone else at the party – I had a play with that goofy black puppy - called Melba. She had a real spark though – and for some reason – latched on to me and did not leave my side the whole night. From that night on, Melba was coming home to our place.

Melba has been a loyal mate ever since. She has grown in to a beautiful, tall dog – with a shiny black coat and limitless energy. She looks to be a cross of Kelpie and German Shepherd – but has a few other strange traits. As a puppy – she loved the water – and still loves nothing more than running and diving for a stick. She swims almost as fast as she runs – and is a great pet for our family. She is quick to adopt folks in to the pack, once she is comfortable - and does not have a bad bone in her body. At first my wife was hesitant to get a big dog, but now says “I can’t imagine life without Melba”! We also have had two kids since Melba – and she is great with them – playing gently and protecting the young members of her pack.

Have attached the Original DCH pic of Melba as a puppy, and two current shots.

Thanks so much to DCH for saving the life of this wonderful animal!

07 April 2015