Banjo’s story and his remarkable transformation is one I feel privileged to be a part of.
Banjo was discovered in NSW in poor condition and was taken into care by R2R as an emergency case.

Banjo was worked very hard in his racing life. He had 90 races from 1 year old to 4 years old. He had to do a lot to earn his keep.

I first met Banjo at an R2R Foster Carers education day. He looked dull and sad and in poor physical condition. He wore the scars of his history on his body. He was also kind, polite and willing. Banjo was definitely a diamond in the rough. I fell in love with Banjo before the day was out, I needed to give this fellow love. I cut short a travel break to get hold of him and find out more about him. I had high hopes he would be a darling.

My first impressions could not have been more accurate. From day one Banjo was willing to learn new things. He is intelligent and follows instructions because he wants to please. He is highly motivated to do what is required in this new life he has.

Banjo is calm and loving, affectionate and funny.

Around the house Banjo is perfect. He hasn’t had even one accident in the house, He has learned to stand at the door when he wants so go out. (Tho we are still mindful to give him frequent opportunities for toilet breaks). He is not destructive in any way, he doesn’t chew things or dig or rip out your plants. He loves his toys and knows the difference between his toys and my Australian Native soft toy collection. He delights in being a bit naughty and stealing mine. Banjo is the happiest boy, just being close by to you no matter what you are doing. Banjo is not demanding, and is content watching you do your stuff, but is happy happy happy when you give him a pat or a love as you pass, or call him over to have a quick cuddle. He has learned that the kitchen is out of bounds and (mostly) won’t cross the imaginary line from the family room… and when he forgets a simple point is enough to motivate him to move back over the invisible line. Did I mention his tail never stops wagging? Did I mention how much joy I get from seeing him toss his stuffed lamby around?

Banjo loves to go out, on foot, in the car, what ever suits you. To the shops, to the beach, to the café or on dog walks. He loves it all. Banjo was born to be a companion. Banjo is reveling in his new life.

Socially Banjo is mostly a superstar, he gets on with every person young to old, he gets on with most dogs and is polite and interactive. Banjo still has ongoing work to do with the of meeting little dogs. With 90 starts to his career, he is slowly learning about how to react to the little dogs, and his education in this area will need to be ongoing with his new family.

Banjo’s physical transformation has been truly remarkable. He is the perfect example of how the combination of good food, a bit of comfort, some warmth and most of all, some love can turn an ugly frog into a prince charming. Banjos coat now shines, but not so much as his smile. His ribs have disappeared and he looks so very handsome. The scars on his nose (from an ill filling muzzle worn long term) add to his character.

Banjo has transformed from a rough diamond to a beautiful gem that sparkles and shines inside and out.