Dr Andrew Miller, the former president of the Australian Medical Association in Western Australia, has swapped his stethoscope for a pen to explore a different kind of patient history. The prominent Perth-based anaesthetist and veterinarian has authored a new book that delves into the deep and surprising history of humanity's best friend in Australia.
From Ancient Companions to Modern Mates
The book, titled Tall Tails: The History of Dogs in Australia, traces the canine journey from the earliest arrivals to the beloved family members of today. Dr Miller's unique dual qualification in both human and animal medicine provides a distinctive lens through which to examine this bond. He reveals that dogs have been part of the Australian story for millennia, long before European settlement.
The narrative begins with the dingo, which arrived on the continent between 3,500 and 5,000 years ago. Dr Miller explores the profound and complex relationship between Indigenous Australians and these wild dogs, a connection that was deeply misunderstood by early European colonists. The colonists' own dogs, brought on the First Fleet, played crucial and often challenging roles, serving as hunters, guards, and workers in the harsh new environment.
A Vet's Unique Perspective on Canine Contributions
Dr Miller's research uncovers the pivotal roles dogs have played in shaping the nation. He details how canines were essential for exploration, helping to blaze trails across the vast interior. They proved invaluable in the pastoral industry, herding sheep and cattle across sprawling stations. Perhaps most notably, the book highlights how selective breeding in Australia led to the development of iconic working breeds like the Australian Kelpie and the Australian Cattle Dog.
The book also doesn't shy away from the darker chapters, including the historical use of dogs in frontier conflicts and the ongoing ecological impact of wild dog populations. However, the core of the story remains the evolving bond between Australians and their pets. Dr Miller charts the social shift from dogs as purely utilitarian assets to cherished companions and family members, a transition that accelerated in the post-war period.
Why Our Bond With Dogs Matters
For Dr Miller, this history is more than just a collection of interesting anecdotes. His background allows him to reflect on the significant public health and personal wellbeing benefits of the human-animal bond. He discusses the science behind how dogs reduce stress, encourage physical activity, and provide companionship, particularly for isolated or elderly Australians.
The publication of Tall Tails comes at a poignant time for the author, following a recent cancer diagnosis. He has stated that writing the book provided a welcome focus and a positive project during his treatment. The work stands as a testament to his lifelong passion for animals and his curiosity about their place in our shared history.
Ultimately, Dr Andrew Miller's Tall Tails offers a thoroughly researched and engaging account of how dogs have walked alongside Australians through every stage of the nation's development. It is a story of partnership, resilience, and unwavering loyalty that will resonate with any dog lover and change the way we view our four-legged friends' paw print on history.
