SIMBA GOLSBY-VIERTEL
1994 - 2001
Simba came to live with us in 1997 at the age of two. The phone call from June Hayles finally arrived - a Dane was available that needed a home. I can remember our first meeting with this enormous, handsome dog - standing up at the fence. I can also remember Dave's first comment "God, he's BIG', in fact that was the only thing he said on the way home as he gazed at Simba in the rearview mirror.
Time went on and the true Simba began to shine through. Confidence, dominance (I don't use that lightly!) and determination are the only words to describe the big dog.
This is where our wonderful journey began, and through professional help, I started to learn how to think like a dog. Once I had that under control I began to understand why Simba did what he did and learnt to be just one step ahead of him at all times.
The 5 years we had with Simba were a major learning curve for us all and on that trip Simba lived the most full, exciting and happy life We gave to him what every animal deserves, a home full of kindness and love and in return he gave us total commitment and memories to carry forever.
In time we will look back and smile at his funny antics; some come to mind. He was known as "the lizard hunter" - he could stand all day staring at a bush if he thought there might be something in it. All those years of lizard hunting, not once did he chase or harm anything, but he never gave up looking.
Between 4.30pm and 5.30pm was teatime or "hungry" as he knew it. This was when we had to stop what we were doing and prepare "hungry", otherwise he would hound you with a dull roar that went on and on until you headed for the food bowls.
He was known for standing in front of the TV just at that crucial moment!
For harassing Tilly in the backyard and on the oval, but we knew she enjoyed it.
From the day he arrived he had a terrible fix on men with hats or who had grey hair and he was always keen for the chase of a bus, trailer, horse float or motorbike, given half a chance!
How he loved to place his bottom on your lap for a good old rub. Total bliss!!! He was gentle with children and puppies.
Thunder and lightning were a major problem - he would stand outside on his hind legs and give back as good as it gave.
He loved a car ride; if the car was going, he was going too. The beach was a favourite outing as this meant a ride in his car, a bush walk and of course a swim and what a good swimmer he was.
Simba, also known as "Big Dog" to his friends will be remembered for his sheer size, determination, his amazing will to please, his protective nature towards his family and friends and the strength and power he never, ever had to use. He was a cruiser and took everything in his stride.
With consistency, determination and a lot of hard work, even the most wilful dog can be changed to live within the rules given to them. Simba was living proof of that.
We are so grateful to June for giving us the opportunity of knowing and loving Simba and we thank Simba for teaching and encouraging us to understand mans best friend a whole lot better.
Jenny and Dave.
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