A new family member at HERD – Nandi the German Shepherd

We have a new family member to introduce you to! Little Nandi, Adine’s puppy, who has been staying with her during Lockdown in the Reserve.

Nandi will travel with Adine when she’s not at the lodge, but for now the troop are all together – sheep, dog, elephant, human! The little German Shepherd has even gone along for the odd walkabout with Khanyisa and Lammie around the orphanage!

As they continue to get to know each other, Khanyisa and the pooch seem to have no problem with each other’s company — in fact certain dog breeds often make, like Lammie, for excellent companion animals for orphan elephants (or rhinos).

But Lammie is a little less certain and tends to puff out her chest and suck in her stomach, with her woolly head held high, if Nandi comes too close. Perhaps she’s making her independence known, and proclaiming that she will not be hounded by any herding shepherd dog, or perhaps she’s just making sure to protect her ellie friend.

Nandi has also spent some time with Adine while she cleans the stables or nursery, napping on the grass and adding even more love to the brood.

Overall this little mixed family certainly ensures no one gets left behind or feels lonely!

We’ll post more sweet clips of this fluffy addition soon!