I’m not sure it’s wise to admit I have a crush on the very same man my 10-year-old daughter has one on. It’s kind of embarrassing, really, but then – just because you’re chugging up and over the hill doesn’t mean you can’t appreciate good looks and talent. And good looks. Did I mention good looks?
I mean, Dr Chris Brown is kind of the all-round package, is he not? Tall, handsome, wholesome, fit, outdoorsy, clever, caring, a man with heart. Someone who can both wrestle pythons and cup baby chicks in his hands and coo. And don’t even start me on the occasion he’s had tears in his eyes!
It’s interesting, though – while he’s certainly tied up in a lovely package, my attraction to Dr Chris goes far deeper than his bronze Bondi skin. It sounds kind of weird, but my true attraction lies in the hefty role-modelling he’s doling out to young kids all over the country – my daughter a case in point.
While 10-years-old is a little young to have more than a passing infatuation on anyone, it’s really clear my daughter’s love of Dr Chris stems from her admiration for what he does. Many young girls (and boys) have an inherent love of animals – and the rise in popularity of the resident Bondi vet’s TV show has certainly done more than send hearts aflutter.
Along with the fabulous Dr Lisa Chimes and the entire Bondi Vet team, we are given an unscripted sneak peek inside the inner workings of Chris’s vet practice – with inspiring and sometimes devastating results. When my Ella first started watching Bondi Vet, I was concerned that some of the stories may be too upsetting for her – but she has surprised me with her understanding and resilience – reminding me that we can’t underestimate children and their ability to feel unbridled compassion.
And my goodness, animals need our unbridled compassion. I feel strongly about showing respect and kindness to pets and animals, and my daughter is similarly impassioned – she insisted on becoming a member of the RSPCA and is thrilled when her special member magazine arrives in the mail.
The RSPCA website has tonnes of resources to teach kids more about how we can protect and stand up for animal unjustice. Head there for a peek at how you can become involved. http://www.rspca.org.au/how-you-can-help/campaigns/
And in the meantime, I’m going to enjoy immersing myself in the new release DVD of Bondi Vet (Season 1) with my animal-loving daughter whenever I’m brave enough. I’m a hopeless sook when it comes to animals who are hurt or in any kind of pain. But Ella will hold my hand and talk me through it – and if I really find things difficult, I’m sure Dr Chris will momentarily distract me.