Dog tales mark milestone

The Lesmurdie resident portrays the many characteristics of canines in her latest exhibition For the Love of Dogs.

The self-taught artist spent many years working on cattle stations before settling in Broome where she developed her distinctive style.

Her artwork graces collections at home and overseas, and she has held more than 50 solo exhibitions.

Norton's fine strokes will be on display in a new and limited reproduction collection on show at John XXIII College, Mt Claremont from Friday, August 28 to 30.

The exhibition is part of a celebration commemorating the oldest dogs� home in Western Australia.

Central to the exhibition will be the launch of Tales from our Home, a book charting the 80-year history of the Dogs� Refuge in Shenton Park. The book records the history of the refuge from 1935 and the many animal lovers who helped the "pitiful waifs and strays" left roaming the streets of Perth.

There are dozens of feel-good stories about some of the 50,000 dogs and puppies rescued and re-homed by volunteers.

President of the Home, Karen Rhodes, said Norton had been an incredible supporter of the refuge over the years.

"I think everyone who worked on this book was fascinated to discover how our Home was established and at the same time we're proud to learn that we're continuing the invaluable rescue work that began in Perth 80 years ago."

Norton said she hoped the exhibition would help secure more homes for unwanted dogs.

"The refuge stands out to me as a charity where there is an authentic care and concern that emanates from volunteers and staff," she said.

"There is no kudos or status gained in helping animals others have rejected and to do so takes a special kind of person; I love the kindness of the people working at the refuge, they know they are the dog's last chance and will do everything they can to help them."

Tales from our Home is available from the refuge or via www.dogshome.org.au.