Axel

Recently 'My Dog Cafe', Australia's first dedicated cafe for dogs at Port Melbourne's Station Pier hosted a very SPECIAL event. This included the final's of 'Australia's Next Top Pooch' where numerous beloved canines of all shapes and sizes strutted their stuff on the red carpet leading to the catwalk to compete for this prestigious, top award. There was a marquee, carpeted, with chandeliers and gold throne style chairs for the star studded celebrity judges who included Patti Newton, radio wit Andy Lee, Australia's Next Top Model winner and host Alice Burdeu, swimwear designer, Jodhi Meares and Emma Greenway. Of course no such even would have been possible without the presence of the lovely "Emelda", the West Highland White Terrier who features on all ' My Dog' products and TV commercials. Whilst finger food, beverages and wine were served by the many waiters to everyone, other waiters rushed around serving food and chilled water to the excited but well behaved 4 legged participants. Each perfectly coiffed pooch and handler were shown separately walking their way along the red carpet. When Axel stepped onto the catwalk loud cheers and thunderous applause followed from the large, appreciative crowd. Doting owner Kimi Lee posed as a lion tamer with a whip dressed her beloved pooch in a lion suit including the tuft on his tail. What a majestic, commanding picture the king of dogdom cut! Of course the judges decision was unanimous, "Axel" ! A short interview followed. Lots of noise! Axel was surrounded by keen cameramen with their camera's flashing. Kimi was proud to report that in spite of all the fracas, the crowned king did not flinch one bit! The coveted price included a huge hamper laden with goodies, some 200 cans of food, nine boxes each containing eight bags of dry food and a beautiful sparkling crown which Patty suggested Kimi should convert into a lovely necklace! Axel's photo will also grace a glossy fashion magazine in the very near future! What great achievement, what great advertisement for a versatile Mastiff and his devoted owners! When Axel is not winning challenges and getting his championship with Brian, he is winning a beauty pageant with Kimi or he is busily playing with the same sized giant ball that lions use at the zoo!....But, above all, gentle giant Axel spent most of his time these past five years with Kimi doing what he likes and does best, working as a therapy dog around Melbourne giving great joy to the sick and the elderly. Kimi, Brian, Axel. I salute you! By Amasha Caffyn, ( the proud granny!)

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