Wags to Riches

The latest star to hit the silver screen at the Edinburgh International Film Festival has very few diva demands. No white lilies or Jo Malone candles for this actress – a brisk walk, a juicy bone and a comfy bed will suffice!

Meet Tippy, an 8 year old German Shepherd cross from Dogs Trust West Calder. Rehomed from the West Lothian centre by Edinburgh-based filmmaker Matt Hulse and his girlfriend Lucy Brown, Tippy plays a star role in his debut feature Follow the Master.

The quirky film sees Matt, his girlfriend and Tippy the dog following the 100-mile South Downs Way in homage to the film maker’s grandfather who died last year.

Matt Hulse explains,“Originally we had planned on doing the road trip purely as a pilgrimage in honour of my grandpa, but I took some filming equipment along and Follow the Master was born! Tippy was a natural in front of the camera and we always knew she had a definite star quality.”

The walk took 12 days but on the 5th day Tippy showed signs of being uncomfortable and a trip to the vet confirmed a sprain, so Matt and Lucy decided that she should not walk any further.

On a normal day she goes round the Meadows or Blackford Hill. “She’s nine now and slowing down a bit,” Matt says.

Susan Tonner, Dogs Trust West Calder rehoming centre manager, adds, “In the last 15 years we’ve had all sorts of dogs pass through the doors of our centre, but I think Tippy is the first to make it on to the big screen!”

“Tippy came to us in 2001 as incredibly well behaved. She really likes the cameras and flash bulbs and waiting around and all the attention,” says Matt. “I know her well enough to be able to create an environment where she’s relaxed on set. In Follow the Master, she plays herself but in her next appearance on www.dummyjim.com she has to play a character.”

While stardom may not have gone to Tippy’s head she did autograph posters for the film, which premiered at the Edinburgh International Film Festival on 20th June with a follow up showing on 28th June. To book tickets please go to www.edfilmfest.org.uk.

Dogs Trust West Calder cares for 60 dogs at any one time. If you are interested in rehoming a dog please call the centre on 01506 873 459.