Welcoming Kimi: HERD’s Newest Fluffy Companion

Written by Adine Roode.

My German Shepherd Nandi has been an incredible friend and companion to me since she joined my family in 2020, the year Khanyisa joined us at HERD. I have needed a companion for Nandi, though, so that she isn’t alone whenever I travel overseas. And so, at the end of last year, I welcomed a new little Dachshund friend named Kimi.

The first week with Kimi was a whirlwind, but Nandi instantly took to her new little sister, showing her affection and protectiveness from day one. She would follow Kimi everywhere. When we were in the reserve, and I couldn’t find the tiny pup, everyone would have to pause and search! Eventually, I got her a collar with a little bell—a lifesaver for keeping track of her.

As is typical for puppies, Kimi loves her naps. When she is awake, she trails after Nandi everywhere. If Nandi is lying down, Kimi will find a way to snuggle close—whether on top of her, nestled into her chest or curled up on her tail. At night, she sleeps with me, but during the day, it is Nandi who takes on the role of caregiver. Seeing their bond grow has brought so much joy to both of us.

A Road Trip to Remember

In December, it was time for our annual summer trip to the Eastern Cape. This meant a 17-hour drive with three dogs in tow, Nandi, Kimi and Tasha (my daughter’s dog, whom we sometimes call Nina). Each had their designated spot in the car—Nandi and Tasha were seasoned travellers, but for Kimi, it was a whole new experience. True to puppy nature, she quickly adapted, taking plenty of naps along the way.

We made regular stops to stretch our legs. I always enjoy these road trips. Staying over in the Karoo is a highlight, offering a chance to unwind with music and podcasts. While it was a slight disruption to the dogs’ usual routine, but they enjoyed the pit stops as much as I did.

Once settled at our destination, we began our daily walks. Since she was still so young, Kimi joined only every second day, while Nandi and I explored the beaches. Our beaches are breathtaking, but they do limit off-leash access for dogs. Thankfully, there was still plenty of space to run and play.

Nandi, with her free spirit, loves the beach as much as the bush. She ran for kilometres, occasionally stopping to cool off in the sand, waiting for me to catch up. Kimi, on the other hand, wasn’t quite sure about the waves and the sea spray, but she was determined to follow Nandi’s lead. With her tiny legs, she must have run three or four times the distance I walked! If I ever picked her up to give her a break, she’d wriggle to get back down and keep running. To ensure she didn’t overdo it, I let her rest every other day while Nandi and I explored the rocky shores.

Despite a few hiccups with potty training (which we’re working on), Kimi has settled in beautifully. She’s brought a new energy into our home, and her bond with Nandi is heartwarming to watch.

Kimi has completed our little family, and I’m delighted to introduce her to all of you. She has already brought so much joy, and I look forward to watching her grow—especially under the watchful eye of her big sister, Nandi, who is learning even more about ‘motherhood’ with each passing day.