16/08/2025
I just have to share this wonderful video of my working collie Bolt, doing what he loves to do. Taken a few days ago when it wasn't so hot, but during the worse drought I've known so please excuse the lack of grass. This is a group of 100+ lambs being walked into the yard. He works quietly and patiently, asks for directions but also demonstrates quick thinking when needed.
He is not a well trained sheep dog by expert standards, but we work together well and get the job done. I don't train sheepdog work because this is not within my skill set. However this video does show how we work as a team, he is confident and happy, and the sheep remain calm (even the one that makes a break for it quickly returns to the rest without much fuss).
Moments like this don't just happen, it's taken years of training and learning from each other. This is one episode where we got it right & I had time to record. There have also been moments of frustration, upset and possibly anger where it didn't go so well. But like all good partnerships we forgive, learn, change and adapt.
I am so privileged that I get opportunities to help other partnerships develop and grow. Through my training I can help people work through the moments of frustration and doubt with their dogs. I can help build confidence, communication and calmness.
So please enjoy this little video of Big Dog doing his favourite thing and us looking like we know what we are doing for once. Because we all need to celebrate the little wins.