Page 31 2026 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2026 As we dread the day the older ones pass on, we decided to acclimate another dog into the mix. Knowing and loving the Australian breed, we were adamant about adopting a dog that would be past the puppy stage, vetted to be around grandkids and other animals, and support a local kennel. In comes a 3-year-old toy Australian Shephard we named Axel Rose! Axel was relinquished at a shelter by a breeder. We were told this a common practice of some breeders when the dogs have reached a certain age or can no longer produce large litters. This breeder claims Axel is a full-blooded toy Aussie but gave no other information other than he was past his prime. The shelter said he was raised in a 2x3 cage and was made to be alone with extremely strict discipline. The ride home, which was about an hour and a half, was full of surprises as he sat on my lap shaking the whole time while throwing up and pooping all over me. He was our boy from the get-go…puke, poop, and all… and has been loved every minute since we got him home. Axel had a very traumatic life and would shake uncontrollably and very skittish. We have gotten him toys and balls, and he just stares at them, not knowing what to do. He minds very well, never barks and is a constant shadow……except if there is a trash bag out! He does like to tear into full, plastic trash bags! The most excited he gets is when he comes in from outside for a treat, and that is when he turns in circles like a figure skater. Someone suggested that another animal may help Axel loosen up a bit, and of course being the animal lovers we are, we (probably more like ‘I’) jumped all over that! So, all it took was a suggestion and I was in search for another Australian Shephard to rescue and Axel Elly May
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