Give us a peck, begs dog of guinea fowl
On a large plot in Pretoria East, an unconventional friendship is blossoming between a dog and a guinea fowl.
Despite the vicious reputation of the German Shepherd breed of dogs, it is refreshing to see such a firm friendship, says Marianne Verster, the owner of Khuzani, a German Shepherd, and Kallie, a white guinea fowl.
Marianne says that the two can frequently be seen strolling together over her beautiful lawns, eating their meals together and napping together in the shade.
"They are inseparable," said Marianne, whose parents, TC and Leonie, own the plot.
The eight-year-old German Shepherd was first introduced to his feathered playmate when Kallie wandered into the Versters' yard one day.
The Versters are unsure where Kallie hails from, but he has since become a loyal member of the family, responding to the name given to him, and following his large, hairy companion wherever he goes.
According to Marianne, the family played no part in promoting the unusual friendship; they noticed it only after it had been established.
Kallie has become fiercely protective of his canine pal, and will kick and peck anyone who approaches Khuzani.
However, the mild-mannered German Shepherd is patient and gentle, even when Kallie, who can fit comfortably between his front paws, pecks at him.
The two animals share the household with other pets, including a small Yorkshire terrier who, according to Marianne, is terribly jealous of the unique relationship and will nip at Khuzani to demonstrate its displeasure.
