The Buddy system

By Djembe Archibald

May 17, 2023

Buddy squared: Cam Blacksell and Alex Jane with foster dog Buddy and their dog, also named Buddy. Photo by Megan Fisher

Cam Blacksell and Alex Jane are foster dog veterans, having had about 20 dogs come into their care.

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But Buddy the kelpie was the one to stick around, and has since welcomed another Buddy to the home.

Buddy the two-year-old brown kelpie was a ‘foster fail’, as he came into Mr Blacksell and Ms Jane’s home and hasn’t left, being adopted by the pair about two years ago.

“After two days, we kind of looked at each other and knew,” Mr Blacksell said.

“He wasn’t going anywhere.”

Buddy has since been the companion to at least 10 other foster friends, playing with every dog that comes through the door.

Home at last: Buddy the kelpie was a ‘foster fail’. Photo by Megan Fisher

The most recent is Buddy, nicknamed ‘Binky’, a black and white dog of unknown breed.

And so, the Buddy system began.

Although no-one knows for sure, foster Buddy’s vet forms all say American Staffordshire terrier cross, due to his resemblance to the breed in terms of his stocky build and loveable face.

Despite being one year old, Binky has had a full life prior to his time with his foster parents.

“He was born in Queensland, living with a couple who were together for a while and had kids and everything,” Ms Jane said.

“But then, they got a divorce.”

Adorable: Buddy, aka Binky, has been through several homes in his life, and is now just looking to settle down. Photo by Megan Fisher

Binky’s former parents had trouble deciding on who should have him, and due to their lifestyles, neither could really give him the love and attention he needed.

One of his parents was from Shepparton, where their mum lived, so that’s where Binky ended up living.

“It was a farm, with about 10 outdoor dogs,” Ms Jane said.

“A couple of the dogs on the farm didn’t get along with him, so he ended up with Steph at GVPAR.”

“He just needs a forever home that loves him.”

Taking it easy: Buddy the kelpie. Photo by Megan Fisher

The two Buddys have a strong bond and tire each other out with their antics.

“They are best of mates and they're full of energy,” Ms Jane said.

“Buddy [foster Buddy] loves to wrestle.

“Whereas our Buddy loves to run and herd people around.”

The two dogs go to Nathalia Boarding Kennels on Tuesdays and Thursdays, tuckering themselves out and enjoying socialisation.

Drink break: Buddy the mutt lapping up the dog park water. Photo by Megan Fisher

Foster Buddy was described as a dog of many quirks, who doesn’t take life too seriously.

“He is a silly little goofball,” Ms Jane said.

“He loves water; we have this shell swimming pool at home and he just shoves his face into it and blows bubbles.

“Honestly, he just has so much love to give.”

Buddy the foster dog is still searching for his ‘paw-ever’ home, and if you’re interested in knowing more about GVPAR, head to its Facebook page or website at goulburnvalleypetadoption.com.au