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From Cudlee Creek fires to Callington – Scout set for life of adventure with new owner at JAKEM Farm

A young puppy who needed to be rehomed after the Cudlee Creek blaze tore through his owner’s property earlier this year has finally been adopted, and is fast becoming a social media star.

The Adelaide Hills News and dog rescue organisation Scruffer Lovers have helped find a new home for Scout, pictured with new owner Cassie Westerholm, after the Cudlee Creek fires. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe
The Adelaide Hills News and dog rescue organisation Scruffer Lovers have helped find a new home for Scout, pictured with new owner Cassie Westerholm, after the Cudlee Creek fires. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

He has only been part of his new family for six weeks, but nine-month-old pup Scout already has his own Instagram and Facebook pages.

The huntaway made headlines in March when his picture featured on Page 1 of The Advertiser along with the story about his need to find a new home following the Cudlee Creek bushfires.

His then-owner, John Hammersmith, had lost most of his property during the December fires, and was no longer able to house and look after Scout.

With the help of The Adelaide Hills News and dog rescue group Scruffer Lovers, Mr Hammersmith made it his mission to find his beloved dog a new home.

And he succeeded.

Scout now lives with Cassie Westerholm, who runs JAKEM Farm 4x4 Park in Callington with her father, Steve.

John Hammersmith was forced to find Scout a new home after his property burned to the ground during the Cudlee Creek bushfires. Picture: Tait Schmaal
John Hammersmith was forced to find Scout a new home after his property burned to the ground during the Cudlee Creek bushfires. Picture: Tait Schmaal
Scout with his new owner, Cassie Westerholm. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe
Scout with his new owner, Cassie Westerholm. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

“Dad saw the paper first and told me to have a look and to apply if interested, so I did,” Ms Westerholm said.

“Just looking at the picture and reading the story, it just broke my heart and I thought, ‘I can’t just leave him’.”

Scout now has almost 324ha of land to explore and has made friends with two local kelpies.

“I think he’s been settling in nicely,” Ms Westerholm said.

“He has two beds to choose from, one upstairs and one downstairs, but always tries to get up on my bed and the couch.

“He likes to be really close to you and a good cuddle, that’s when he’s not out and about roaming and exploring the grounds.”

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Scout has found his new forever home at JAKEM Farm in Callington.
Scout has found his new forever home at JAKEM Farm in Callington.

Ms Westerholm had no doubt Scout would become a popular attraction once the property reopened to the public.

JAKEM Farm – a weekend escape for families with an interest in camping and 4x4 driving – was forced to shut its gates last month due to COVID-19 restrictions.

“It’s been pretty quiet around here, but I think Scout will enjoy the attention once we reopen,” Ms Westerholm said.

“I’ve already set him up an Instagram and Facebook account called ScoutnAbout, so people can follow him and stay up-to-date with his adventures.

“We’re really happy he’s now part of the family.”

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Original URL: https://www.adelaidenow.com.au/messenger/adelaide-hills/from-cudlee-creek-fires-to-callington-scout-set-for-life-of-adventure-with-new-owner-at-jakem-farm/news-story/c388126f2bba40883c973f7d9aedfee6