The people have voted on their dog of the year, and Mickleham’s very own Heidi has taken out the honours.
Heidi is 13.5 years young and Cathy James’ dearest friend, that one-in-a-lifetime Heart Dog.
Heidi has numerous championship titles with Dogs Australia and lives to make people happy, comforting them in times of need.
Cathy’s dad had extreme dementia and when he came home from the hospital for palliative care, Heidi was his constant companion.
“Heidi was unbelievable, not leaving dad’s side in his last days. She plopped herself beside him and did not move, even when she got whacked by dad’s hand (by accident). His hands would stop and rest on her. She calmed him. It was during COVID (lock down) and nobody could visit. Heidi was dad’s constant companion and attended his funeral,” Cathy said.
Heidi fought through cancer and chemotherapy and has come out the other side thriving.
“Heidi is a survivor, the epitome of the classic Aussie Battler,” said Cathy.
“She is ballzy, stoic, headstrong, so incredibly loving and loved beyond life itself. Anyone who meets Heidi knows there’s something incredibly special about her. Heidi and I live for each other. She is the dearest friend I will ever have.”
Kerry Martin, award-winning pet photographer said that dogs make a significant impact on the lives and wellbeing of people.
“We see how ordinary fur-citizens from around Australia have helped their people, made a difference to others and be outstanding Paw-stralians in the communities that they live in,” she said.
Gerald Lynch
