Dorothy Westerman
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (May 27/05) - It wasn't exactly a baby on a doorstep - but it was a close second.

A Great Dane puppy was abandoned on the steps of Borealis Kennels in Kam Lake last Friday morning, said shop owner Joanne Cooper.

The only clue as to who may have left the dog, Cooper said, was that she was told a gentleman entered her downtown location and inquired whether anyone might want a Great Dane puppy.

"And then Friday morning, she's on our doorstep," Cooper said.

After bringing the dog inside, Cooper said she put her in a bigger kennel, gave her some food and water and promptly named her Halle Berry.

Cooper said she received a call from a woman who was on the Great Dane Rescue waiting list and who heard about the dog through a friend in the city.

"It sounds like a great home."

Kirsten Burke is the person interested in obtaining a Great Dane.

Although she wants to rescue the puppy, she is not without reservations about its potential health problems.

She said the cost of a Great Dane from a reputable breeder can range from $1,200 to $3,000. A well-tempered breed, Burke said Great Danes love being indoors and are "gentle giants."

"And I know we'd be a good home for her and we're very excited about it, but we may not be the best home because she may need special care."