Bill’s left holding the puppies

The Reid dogs don’t see much of their real owners.  But they see a lot of Docklands’ own Good News Bill who bought the dogs for his children but has become the canines’ number one carer.

Bill explained that each of his three kids has a dog – but only when it suits them.

For most of the time it is good old dad who walks them, feeds them, cleans them and picks up after them.

But for those of us familiar with parenthood, Bill’s story is unsurprising.  It’s what dads do.

And regardless of the ownership issues, Bill wouldn’t be without his beloved pooches.  Currently he is spoiling Angie (left) and Bonnie (right) who are both from the same litter.

He said he was reminded of the movie 101 Dalmatians when he went to buy them nearly four years ago.

“They opened the garage door and all these animals came pouring out,” he said. “These two were wrestling so I managed to grab them.”

Bill says Angie and Bonnie are “probably” border collie crossed with a terrier mix.  In other words – fairly unique!

He said they displayed herding instincts as well as hunting characteristics.

“They are very fast and they really do like hunting,” he said.

Despite not living in Docklands, Bill says Angie and Bonnie love the place – especially Yarra’s Edge where our photo was taken recently.

“The Webb Bridge is now one of their favourite haunts,” he said.