A perfect pair

By Stephanie Zhang

Rhodesian ridgeback Zimba and owner Jimmy became a duo four years ago when Zimba was just eight weeks old and they have been inseparable ever since.

They were spotted strolling along Alexandra Gardens last month just over the road from Southbank.

Zimba was wearing a small muzzle – but Jimmy explained that this was because Zimba was strong and “he goes mental when he sees another dog and wants to play”.

While Zimba sniffed and chewed at a nearby tree, Jimmy said his favourite toy was a cushion he’d had since they first met.

“He’ll just destroy anything but that one he hasn’t. He carries it everywhere with him,” Jimmy said. When asked about Zimba’s favourite activity to do together Jimmy said:

“Anything! As long as he’s with me and he’s out, he doesn’t care.”

Zimba has a unique stripe of hair that grows in the opposite direction down his back.

His breed was originally bred to hunt lions in Zimbabwe, which proves to be a good match with Jimmy, who is just as athletic.

“I do a lot of fitness. I’m only walking today but we go running, swimming on the beach in the summer.

He comes everywhere with me!” Jimmy said.