Oreo

“Oreo”, Painting by Alton R. Lowe

This painting of Oreo, a potcake (mixed-breed) dog, was extraordinarily popular. There is a bond between humans and dogs which is unique and Oreo was no exception. Rescued as a puppy from the Treasure Cay dump, Oreo became an “ambassador of goodwill” on Green Turtle Cay for guests staying at the Linton Cottages. With each change of guests, he could be seen riding around in a golf cart appearing to be showing off the island to the new group. Missing one leg, Oreo was still full of restless energy and loved greeting new visitors.

This painting was one of four on Bahamian postage stamps calling attention to those “potcake” dogs. At a time when there was no commercial dog food sold on Green Turtle Cay, dogs were fed with food scraps from the table and from the bottom of the family cooking pot which held peas and rice, a staple then and now for many Bahamians. Although mixed breeds, many “potcakes” are truly beautiful, famously loyal, they have been loved for generations of Bahamians, grown-ups as well as children.

In the distance, one can see the Man-O-War built schooner, William H. Albury. Ships and dogs seem to go together. And who can deny at the end of the day that man’s best friend doesn’t find his own sweet place in a special dog heaven as a reward for his love and loyalty? - Alton