ERROL PARKER | Editor-at-large | Contact

When Doug Campbell’s father told him about hydatid cysts as a child, he was given a memory he’s yet to forget.

From the dinner table of their South West Betoota sheep and cattle property, the now 29-year-old recalls how his father reminded them of why dogs weren’t allowed in the house.

“Dad always used to say dogs were filthy. My uncle got hydatids when I was a kid and had to have half a lung taken out. Dad said it was from a dog,” he said.

“He didn’t hate dogs or anything, he was good with his dogs. He even loved a few of them. But he said a dog’s place isn’t in the family home because they carry disease and whatnot. I always wanted a house dog but Dad said no,”

“All my friends in town had house dogs. Dad said those French Quarter yuppies didn’t know the dangers of having some flea-ridden mutt nuzzle up to you on the couch of an evening time. Those memories have really stuck with me.”

Which is why, in Douglas’ own words, he feels a little bit apprehensive about watching his girlfriend-of-four-years Rachael kiss their six-month-old Staffie on the mouth.

Speaking candidly to The Advocate about his true feelings on the matter, the mid-level stock and station agent said he’s still not 100% sold on the idea – even though he knows there’s nothing wrong with it.

“Yeah look. I got the house dog I always wanted and the girl of my dreams but to be honest, it doesn’t sit well with me. This type of mouth-to-mouth contact with a dog,” he said.

“Jessie, the dog, has had all her vaccinations and that jazz. But I’ve seen her eat her own shit, vomit it up, then eat it again. I’ve seen her lick anything, including some fresh piss off a boree tree,”

“Then later on Rach plants a kiss on the dog, then one on me and the first thing I think about is where the dog’s mouth has been. Oh well, I guess there’s more important things to worry about. I just find myself thinking about this type of nonsense between the footy and cricket seasons.”

More to come.