Berkley: The Big, Playful Heart of the Family
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Name: Berkeley (Instagram: @HellofromBerk)
Nicknames: Berk, Berk Berk, Berkie, Berkie Turkey, Berk-a-lurk, The Goof
Age: 2 years (estimated, born January 2022)
Breed: A mystery mix—possibly part saluki or tazi, and part collie
Height: About 60 cm
Rescue: Yes
A Surprise Arrival
Our journey with Berkeley started unexpectedly. Through our first rescue, Lola, we’d already built a relationship with Melez Dog Rescue and often helped out, whether by donating or stepping in to transport and foster dogs.
Berkeley was no different—or so we thought. We were asked last minute to pick him up from Schiphol and foster him for a few days until he could be placed with a longer-term foster family. He stayed with us for two days, but it only took one evening to realize we’d completely fallen for him. Although we tried to deny it at the time, it was love at first sight.
As planned, Berkeley went to his new foster family on the other side of the country. But we couldn’t stop thinking about him. After a few days, we formally told Lisanne (of Melez Dog Rescue) that we wanted to adopt him. Two weeks later, we drove four hours round-trip to bring him back home for good.
When Berkeley arrived in the Netherlands, he was unwell. He had Ehrlichiosis and a mouth full of warts. Thankfully, with the right care and medication, he recovered within weeks. Ehrlichiosis can reappear later in life, but for now, he’s a vibrant and healthy young dog. His gratitude for finding his forever home is evident every single day—and we’re equally grateful for him.
Favorite Toy
Berk loves all toys, but nothing beats stealing one of Lola’s. His ultimate joy? Tearing them apart and pulling out all the stuffing.
Favorite Activity
Food. Berk loves food and will do just about anything for it. He especially adores agility training—not only because it’s fun and social but because it always involves snacks.
On walks, he loves following his nose, whether we’re on the street, at the beach, or in the forest. He zigzags along with such focus that he sometimes forgets to pay attention to his surroundings—or to us.
Back home, wrestling with our son is his favorite pastime. They have an unshakable bond and an energy that matches perfectly.
Personality
Berkeley is outgoing, lovable, and literally a big softie. He thrives on company and being part of the action. While he’s incredibly smart, he’s also incredibly stubborn—if he doesn’t see the point of a command, he simply won’t do it.
Funny Quirk
Berk doesn’t always realize how big he is. He’ll try to play with tiny pups as if they’re the same size. And when he’s on the couch? He’ll plop half his massive frame across you—even when there’s clearly not enough room for him to fit.