Politicians and their pets: Debbi McCall

Pet's name?

Dougal 

Breed?  

West Highland Terrier

Age?  

Nine

How long have you had him?  

Eight and a half years

Where did you get him?

Westie Rescue. He had been abandoned and given to them for rehoming. 

What do you love about him?

He’s a very loving dog. He also thinks that he is a child and loves children. 

What special talents does he have?

Knowing when the cheese is being taken out of the fridge even though he appears to be fast asleep.

What is his most annoying habit?

Waking up very early at the weekend and sleeping in during the week.

What is the worst thing that he has done?

About a month after Dougal came to live with us, he was exploring in the garden. I was horrified to see him running across the garden with a large bone in his mouth. I went to see what he had done and he had dug up a cat’s grave. I’m still traumatised at the thought of him digging up someone’s beloved pet. 

Do you think of yourself as a pet parent or pet owner?

Definitely a parent.

What’s the most ridiculous thing you have bought or done for your pet?

A Christmas coat with bells. Completely ridiculous and it didn’t even fit!

What’s your first pet or animal-related memory?

My grandad was a milkman. He had a horse and cart and would stop off at our house and let us give the horse an apple or a carrot. 

What was the first pet you ever had?

A cat called Mince when I got my first flat.

What would be your dream pet?

I think he already lives with us.

If you could be any animal what would you be?

Any bird that migrates during the winter. I’d love to be able to fly, plus get away to a warmer climate.