A most unexpected major highlight of the trip was a visit to the Flock Hill Station for a look at a working sheep ranch. Dogs are essential to run the ranch.
The older and more experienced dog did not bark, but rather telegraphed his commands to the sheep through body position and eye contact. The younger trainee dog was chosen as a "barker", since both types of dogs are needed. To watch the dogs work together primarily through whistle and voice commands from Richie was amazing.
 |
| Richie explaining how the sheep dogs are essential to running a sheep ranch |
 |
| Dog starting to herd the recently-weaned lambs to move them from one paddock to another |
 |
| Lambs running |
 |
| Dog moving the lambs through a specific gate |
 |
| Good dog! |
 |
| Richie holding one of the lambs to explain how they are sheared, while the second dog watches. This younger dog is still in training, and was chosen because he DOES bark as needed, where the other dog rarely barks. |
No comments:
Post a Comment