"Greetings from a Newfy downunder. I must be one of the only dogs on the internet with my own email address. My name is Tunni and I live in Sydney Australia with my parents Phil and Rachael Roberts. I am 6 years old. I have been living with my foster parents for the last 2 years.
My loving foster parents Phil and Rachael rescued me from a very sad situation. I was abused and abandoned by my previous owners. Their kids used to kick me and ride on my back and I was fed scraps and stale bread. The neighbours in the street took pity on me and used to feed me when they saw me roaming the streets. One night my owners left without paying rent and left me behind all alone. The neighbours took me in and fed me. They then contacted the Newfoundland Club of NSW (Karl and Tracy Shaw), who then put me in contact with my foster parents who had been looking for a mature age Newfy.

When I first came to Mum and Dad's I was malnourished and my coat was dreadfully matted. They took me to the doctor, who gave me a thorough check over and checked for heartworm. Next I was taken to the doggy parlour for a total body makeover. I was in such bad shape that I had much of my coat clipped to remove years of knotting. Now I am on a regular diet and am cared for very well.

I now go everywhere with my mum and dad. They even bought me a new station wagon car that is big enough for me to stretch out in style and travel everywhere with them. We often go the beach, walks down by the river and visiting friends & family. I am a celebrity in the street with the children lavishing attention on me. On Saturday, we went for a walk to the shops where we visited the local cafe. I sat with mum and dad and watched the world pass by (while they had coffee and pastries). They tell me that things like these are not good for us dogs!!.

Oh well I had better go now. Nice talking to you, but this typing makes me so tired. I think I will have to spend the rest of the day lazing on my doona in the middle of the loungeroom. I will try and send you a picture of myself some time.

Slobber, slobber.

Love Tunni
Friend of all "

"Unfortunately we have some sad news regarding Tunni. After several months of differing treatments for arthritic problems, it came to the point where she could no longer stand up. Last week we made the painful decision to put her to sleep. She had been a terrific friend and family member for the 5 years that we had her. We are comforted by the fact that we gave her loving home after her rough start to life." - Phil & Rachael Roberts : 5 November 2002