Dogs and designer furniture might not sound like the perfect match, but Brian is doing his best to challenge the stereotype.
The two-year-old boxer cross was recently adopted from the UQ School of Veterinary Science Clinical Studies Centre, where he had undergone eight months of rehabilitation under the watchful eye of veterinary students.
Centre Manager Rebekah Scotney said Brian's success story is a result of the school's close collaboration with Logan City Council.
Mrs Scotney said veterinary science and veterinary technology students spend a great deal of time learning from these animals and also contribute to their retraining. Each animal's behaviour is modified in a positive environment to successfully promote the "pets-for-life" message.
Brian's experiences prior to being rescued by Logan City Council and UQ did not damage his spirit, with his playful and loving personality catching the attention of local designer Cath Venardos.
Brian now spends his days at her furniture studio Charcoal Interiors in Newstead, where he has developed good relationships with both the staff and high-end clientele.
"Brian is beautiful and has settled in perfectly," Ms Venardos said.
"He's in seventh heaven: the mechanics across the road bring him a fishcake every morning and our customers ask where he is when they come in.
"One of our clients has actually asked if he can start walking him on Saturday mornings!"
And while animals and European furnishings don't always mix well, Ms Venardos said the idea of bringing your pet to work was not an alien concept.
"To have a dog in your place of business is actually quite European," she said.
"We're selling European-influenced pieces, so having Brian here is a perfect fit."
Staff and students at the Clinical Studies Centre at Gatton work together to rehabilitate homeless and abandoned animals.
Pets available for adoption can be viewed online - www.uq.edu.au/vetschool/adopt-a-pet
Media: Rebekah Scotney (07 5460 1866, rebekah.scotney@uq.edu.au)
