Hot Rod

I met this incredible Italian Mastiff on Saturday 12 March 2011, just after moving to Melbourne. He was sitting at a cafe on Acland Street. His sheer size (this photo doesn't do him justice) terrified me... but his owner encouraged me to say hello.

He was introduced to me as Hot Rod - two years old and weighing in at a whopping 70kg, with plenty more growing to do. I gave him lots of pats, which he heartily received. His owner mentioned that Hot Rod visits St Kilda nearly every weekend for breakfast, so I intend to be making that street my haunt until I meet him again!