Cheese, a yellow border collie, has bounced back to beat the odds. Having come back from a catastrophic injury, he’s now made his mark on the world of working dog trials. Millions of people remember Cheese as an early champion for his field. After injuring his front foot in an accident in 2020, it looked like either amputation or losing his leg entirely. Fast forward a year and change later, it has been announced that he is officially back in the competitive scene, a great show of his strength and will.
Antony Mulder, Cheese’s owner and handler, has been with him every step of this difficult journey. They are creatively weaving their way back to work and are definitely hitting the ground running. Notable high points include winning the Australian Novice Championship and other Reining competitions at major events such as The Man From Snowy River Bush Festival.
A Champion’s Early Days
Cheese made his debut to the competition arena at just under two years of age. He soon proved to be the strongest competitor, finishing in a tie for first with one other competitor after his first two runs. Immediately, his potential was obvious, with Cheese giving Antony the early indication that Cheese was meant to be a star.
One day, tragedy struck when Cheese accidentally trapped his foot in a dog cage. The injury put Antony in a difficult position. He was faced with the choice of amputating his treasured friend’s leg or having to let him go forever. In a true testament to their bond, Antony picked the surgery option, and Cheese entered for the procedure.
“Unfortunately, he just got his foot stuck in the dog cage.” – Antony Mulder
The journey of recovery was a long and painful 6 month process in which Cheese was on bed rest at home. To Antony, quitting was not an option and he moved mountains to get his best friend used to life on three legs.
“When he goes quick, he’s fine, when he slows down, he’s just a little bit clunky, but it doesn’t seem to worry him at all.” – Antony Mulder
Antony focused his healing to train Cheese while recovering. After watching his dog bounce back with confidence and agility, he felt that his dog was prepared to get back in the ring.
A Remarkable Return
After several months of therapy and training, Cheese is home! He announced his glorious return to the competition life at Lake Elphinstone in Queensland. Antony says that as they were getting ready for their first performance together, feelings of anticipation and nervousness coexisted.
“It was pretty unreal — there was a little bit of emotion, I’m not going to lie, because we’ve been through a lot together.” – Antony Mulder
At Lake Elphinstone, one of the top trials in Australia Cheese and Antony proved they had the chops and camaraderie needed to go all the way. Their dedication was rewarded when they won their first title together, taking the Australian Novice Championship title. On top of it all, they were still wowing at invitationals across the country.
“That Lake Elphinstone trial, in my opinion, is one of the best in the country.” – Antony Mulder
Cheese was apparently soon back in the saddle, working again with both sheep and cattle. The amputation left his body scarred, but his spirit proved unbreakable. Antony was amazed by Cheese’s adaptation to living on three legs.
“I saw that he was fine with that, and he could still give one a nip on the nose if they give him a bit of trouble.” – Antony Mulder
Celebrating Victory and Friendship
For Cheese, returning to competitive play has won him more than achievements. It has enriched his relationship with Antony. Their common bonds run deep. Hard times have forged them to become the ultimate pair.
“From the beginning, there was something special about Cheese.” – Antony Mulder
Following their recent victories, Cheese was showered with love from fans and advocates alike. Antony laughingly speculated that Cheese had a few more sweets that night. He deemed it an appropriate tribute and reward for all their efforts.
“He got a fair few pats that’s for sure … maybe a few extra dog bickies that night for doing a good job while we were having a few cold beverages.” – Antony Mulder
