Heeler cross Bella, the face of the Dog’s Homes of Tasmania new foster care program, now has a permanent home and a permanent job.  Bella and her mate Huey are  ‘truffle dogs in training’ at Western Tiers Black Truffle farm in Mole Creek.                                                                          

 “We couldn’t be happier for these two…they’ve  found a home where they can be a working dogs and that’s just what they needed.”   Cathy Craw, Foster Care Coordinator, Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania

Harvest Manager, Simon Harvey, spotted Bella on TV and in the newspaper two weeks ago. Bella, the face of the Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania new foster care program, was not showing much interest in the media cameras, concentrating on a game of throw and fetch instead.

Making  the trip from Mole Creek to the Hobart Dogs’ Home, Mr Harvey met Bella and was also introduced to Huey, another working dog with an intense interest in tennis balls. It was game, set and match with both Bella and Huey adopted and signed up as trainee truffle dogs. Both dogs will work during the day and spend the evenings at home with their handlers.

 Mr Harvey says that Bella and Huey are firmly focused on the tennis ball.  Focus and drive is what he looks for in a truffle dog. A high ball drive is useful in training truffle dogs – it’s the reward they get for locating buried truffles. After ten to twelve weeks of training, Bella and Huey will ‘search’ and ‘seek on’, running along lines of oak trees ground-scenting for truffles.

 Mr Harvey says both dogs are settling in very well and showing all the right qualities for their new situation.

“Bella’s foster carer was an important part of this happy story. Six weeks in foster care gave her time to overcome her nervousness. Foster care is so rewarding for the carer and the dog.” Cathy Craw

People interested in adopting a dog or becoming a foster carer can find more information at www​.dogshomesoftas​.com​.au  or  email fostercare@​dogshomesoftas.​com.​au