Politicians and their pets: Jamie Greene

Jamie Greene, Scottish Conservatives MSP for the West Scotland Region, introduces Holyrood to Astro the dog.

 

Pet’s name?

Astro

 

Breed?

Mixed breed male, possibly terrier/collie mix

 

Age?

One year old

 

How long have you had Astro?

Since March 2021

 

Where did you get him?

Rescued after being abandoned from the streets of Romania through an amazing Charity called Paws2Rescue (Ricky Gervais is their ambassador)

 

What can Astro do?

He’s half sheep dog, half sniffer dog so he’s very inquisitive and active. He’s wonderful. Still in need of some training though and he likes to erm, mark his territory everywhere.

 

What do you love about him?

His curious pseudo human expressions and human-like eyes are both hilarious and endearing. He brings endless amounts of (non-political) joy and stress to my life and my life wouldn’t be complete without him. He is my right wing man 100 per cent.

 

What special talents does Astro have?

He sits when asked, he vaguely responds to commands but he is a free spirit. His primary gift is his ability to bring cheer to everyone who meets him. I am privileged to be part of his pack.

 

What’s his best trick?

He has a habit of waiting until I’m fast asleep before sneaking into the bedroom and ensconcing himself at the foot of the bed as a furry water bottle. He is amazing at hiding socks too.

 

What are Astro’s most annoying habits?

He growls at children and old ladies, bless them. And if you’re on an important virtual committee hearing, or live on the telly, he proudly gets his squeaky toys out or jumps up knocking over the screen or home studio lights come crashing down live on-air. Barking whilst I’m on the radio is his other speciality.

 

What’s the worst thing Astro has done?

Sadly he has collapsed unconscious twice after exercise causing me endless worry, concern and huge vet bills. He is ok for now but I now appreciate every one of his days on earth with me a little bit more.

 

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

I am his human. End of debate.

 

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

I did dress him up as an elf for Christmas, he totally loved me for that. Not.

 

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

We also had an extended family whippet called “Sting” who would help uncle bring home the odd rabbit for the pot.

 

What was the first pet you ever had?

I had a goldfish, won from a fairground, who was ironically called “Speedy”. He miraculously lived for about 12 years!

 

What would be your dream pet?

I love Astro to bits. If I had to get another pet I would love to look after his rescue brother Oreo, who was adopted by another family. The two are almost identical and entirely adorable. 

 

If you could be any animal what would you be?

Either an Oceanic Quahog clam (edible, and no doubt delicious) they can live 400 years and are the very living embodiment of our changing world OR a giant Aldabra or Galapagos Tortoise  - because taking life slowly for a hundred years is so appealing right now!