• Tracey Kelsall-Morris with Harper and Bailey.

Tracey, Harper & Bailey

My Dog & Me with Tracey Kelsall-Morris

In association with our good friends at DogHQ each month we meet Shore people whose four-legged family members add a great deal of joy to their lives. Our very own dog-lover Aidan Bennett (he has two doggies of his own he spoils – Olive a Cocker Spaniel and Maisie a French Bulldog) loves the task of putting this monthly feature together. This month he talks with Tracey Kelsall-Morris about Harper and Bailey, her much-loved pooches who love Dog HQ in Albany.

AIDAN BENNETT: How long have Harper and Bailey been part of your life?
TRACEY KELSALL-MORRIS:
Bailey has been with us for nine and a half years and Harper has been with us six months.

AB: What made you decide to get a these breeds?
TK-M:
Bailey is a Maltese x Bichon x Papillon. Harper is an Italian Greyhound. There was nothing in particular when I got Bailey apart from her being the cutest, of course. For Harper, I knew I wanted a hound and spent some time looking for breeders. My friend actually got Harpers sister which is how I found out about Harpers breeder. Both are really smart, always happy, cuddly and low shedding which makes keeping the house clean a breeze. We’re very lucky to have them!

AB: Are they your first dogs?
TK-M:
I’ve always grown up with dogs and animals at home. I was lucky enough to first get Bailey when I was still at Uni and at home. Once we bought our house and settled in, it seemed natural to get another pup. I’d been wanting to for awhile but renting didn’t make it ideal.

AB: Do you have any other pets?
TK-M:
No.

AB: What do you love about Harper and Bailey?
TK-M: 
They have very distinct and different personalities. Bailey is very independent and looooves walks. She’s not a morning dog and loves treats. Harper is super cuddly (a little Velcro dog) and is always ready for action and playtime. She’s very smart and picks things up quickly so enjoys learning new tricks too.

AB: Do they have any bad habits?
TK-M:
Bailey seems to have taught Harper how to bark at the gate. Harper hates the cold and wet so will do everything to avoid going outside to the toilet in the rain (we had to get her a little raincoat!).

AB: What are their favourite things to do?
TK-M:
 Definitely walks. We’re lucky enough to have a good sized backyard where they can run and play. We also live very close to a few beaches and reserves where we can go walking. Most of all, they love going to daycare! They know when we get close and start getting excited in the car.

AB: How long have they been going to DogHQ and does he love it?
TK-M: 
Bailey has been going on and off for a few years. Harper started in December and it’s done her wonders. It’s been great for her confidence around people, she’s a completely different dog.

AB: Do they love the beach and swimming?
TK-M:
 The two of them aren’t huge fans of the water but love running and digging on the beach. They could spend hours there.

AB: Any words of wisdom for other dog owners or prospective dog owners?
TK-M:
 Training really helps but most of all just have fun and enjoy getting to know your dog.