As you know from our Dear Cookie, Aussies definitely have “Star Quality.” They love to mug in front of the camera and have those charming “grins.” Aussies make frequent appearances on television commercials and the labels of pet products. And way before today’s kids TV show “Dog With A Blog,” Aussies were stars of television shows, too. Recently I treated myself to this vintage movie theater lobby card for the Disney classic “Run, Appaloosa, Run!”
This film was part of Walt Disney’s Wonderful World of Color TV in 1967. It told the story of Mary Blackfeather, a young Native American horse Trainer, and her beloved Appaloosa colt, Holy Smoke, who she’s forced to sell, but ultimately fights to get back. The Aussie pictured here is Silver, and was one of the late, great Jay Sisler’s dogs. Jay Sisler, as previously mentioned on this blog, was a rodeo star and dog trainer of the 1950’s and 1960’s. His old home movies of his Aussies performing all sorts of amazing tricks are on YouTube and a must-see for any dog lover.
I love this picture because it really captures the essence of the Aussie spirit: unwavering attentiveness, at-your-service, ever-capable and always clever. Not to mention, great with other animals. Now I’m off to see if I can find this film to watch in the digital universe…. Warm & Fuzzies, Diana
Cookie of Katonah 