WORKINGThe Australian STOCK DOG Magazine Breed Profile: Australian Cattle Dog Tohf TerDaoinsi&ngDon’ts Travelling A DOG’S LIFE: with Dogs Somerville Nell Commonwealth Championships The Way We Were - Les Armstrong Issue 9 ISSN 2205-8729 Mr. President: Milton Cross SAWSDA June 2018 RRP $10.00 (incl. GST)
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From the Editor over the years. The three ladies that have been the backbone of the magazine are Zoe Crouch (editor), Annette Ross, 2018 is here and isn’t it flying by? The Australian Working (design) and Kasie LoSurdo (design / print) Without these Stock Dog Magazine in the last 12 months has been very ac- ladies at the realm the magazine would not be the fantastic tive with fund-raising for mental health charities. Our initi- publication it is today. ative was Working Dog Schools 4 Mental Health Awareness I work full time managing a beef research facility in north where a number of working dog trainers donated their time QLD and juggling efforts between my own dogs, commu- and knowledge in running the working dog schools. The nity engagements and more importantly my family which schools were very well received, and the total amount raised comprises of my wife Mandy and my two boys, Rylan (8), that we donated to beyondblue was $62953. and Hayden (6), leaves me with very little spare time at all Earlier this year Julie Turner approached us from Clermont to enjoy those simple family times. My boys are now at that Kelpies to auction a few of her dog collars through our Face- age where they are demanding more of my time which is a book page in an effort of raising funds for the Dolly’s Dream natural progression. Foundation. We took this a step further and opened up for I have come to the hard decision to offer the Australian donations and were flooded with offers of help over a 48hr Working Stock Dog Magazine et al. officially for sale via period. Auctions Plus were contacted and they generously expressions of interest. Whilst I wont be just throwing in offered their services and platform for us to run the charity the towel, I really hope I can find some genuine working auction through their website. The Dolly’s Dream charity dog enthusiasts that would like to take the magazine to the auction raised $33610. A combined effort of a few thousand next level before the end of financial year in 2019. under $100,000 raised in 12 months is a mammoth effort Don’t be worried, we will still be around for the next issue and I’d like to pass on my sincere gratitude to everyone that and will work out a way forward if there isn’t any interest in has been involved in any way or form through both of the a purchase of the entirety of the magazine. initiatives. Thank You! All the best for the winter months. The Australian Cow Dog Challenge held at Tamworth in Best Regards November 2017 was the highlight of my year. It was a very Wayne Flintham successful event and this year they are going all out with the biggest working dog event in Australia and if not the world. www.facebook.com/ There are three disciplines of dog trailing this year. Cattle, WorkingStockDogMagazine 3 sheep & yard dog. This week-long event will be phenom- enal, and we hope to catch up with many of our readers at Tamworth over the week. The Australian Working Stock Dog Magazine has been go- ing from strength to strength since its conception in 2013. It has so much potential and we have made some great friends All material in this magazine is protected by copyright laws and may not be reproduced in part or full without the written permission of the publisher. The publisher and contributors does / do not accept liability for any opinions or techniques described within The Australian Working Stock Dog Magazine. Print- ed in Australia by Spotpress Pty Ltd and Distributed by IPS. Publisher & Editors: Deputy Editor: Zoe Crouch Wayne & Mandy Flintham Design Director: Kasie LoSurdo Email: [email protected] Chief Designer: Annette Ross Phone: 0458226463 Contributors: Janice DeGennaro, Peter Brown, Snow Mail: PO Box 2096 IDALIA QLD 4811 Ellis, Geoff Gibson, Robert Johnson, Annette Ross, Rural Love Photography, Angie Snell, Bronwyn Burn- ham, Nan Lloyd, Ken Sykes, Belinda Carter, Hannah Barry, Ffire Photography, Karen Edwards, Gwen Shepperson, Jenny Whitlock, Zoe Crouch, Tully Wil- liams, Scott Amon, Bill Scott, John Wightman, Joshua Marshall, Arthur Trewin, Joanne Bray, Sarah James, CNoaovemriPWhohtioteg,rPaperhiyCChraepdpite:llC, raig McPherson Advertising: Email: [email protected] Articles & Stories Email: [email protected] www.stockdogs.com.au
CONTENTS JUNE 2018 On the Cover 17 6. Mr President Milton Cross Somerville Nell 10. The Way we Were Les Armstrong 17. A Dog’s Life - Somerville Nell 44. Travelling with Dogs 50. Breed Profile: Aust. Cattle Dog 63. The Do’s & Don’t’s of Training 84. Commonwealth Championships 6 30 6 Mr. President - Milton Cross 10 The Way We Were - Les Armstrong Mr. President Photo Essay 14 Weekend Warriors 17 A Dog’s Life - Somerville Nell 44 69 21 Vet Check 26 Stockman Profile - Ralph Whitbourne Travelling with Dogs Vale Greg Prince 30 Photo Essay 38 Station Profile - Boogal Station 38 44 Travelling with Dogs 49 TLC: Importance of Pedigrees Station Profile 50 Breed Profile: Aust. Cattle Dog 54 Horror on the Nullabor 57 Behind The Wheel: Jason Hyde 59 Nutrition - Dog Food Labels 63 The Training Pen 67 Memoirs of Bill Scott 69 Vale Greg Prince 74 Vale Arthur Trewin 79 Casterton P & A Show 80 South Australia Trial Dates 81 The VICS Move Ahead 82 Records Tumble at Jerilderie 83 The Dog: Not a Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing 84 Commonwealth Championships 88 Breeders Directory www.stockdogs.com.au AWSDM 5
Story and Photos by Janice DeGennaro PR10EMSinuItDes EwitNh thTe To get the job done……..Milton Cross 6 AWSDM www.stockdogs.com.au
Afew kilometres outside the charming, heritage listed Milton reflected on those days “One of the things I consider country town of Strathalbyn in South Australia, re- fortunate about starting trialling so young, is that I met and sides the current President of S.A.W.S.D.A, Milton got to listen to some of the legendary stockmen of that era of Cross. A fourth generation local farmer, who owns/ share men that lived and breathed stockwork using paddock dogs. farms approximately 800 hectares in Angus Plains. 600 hec- Lew and George Noble, Ross Dodge, Ron Seabrook, Jim Pow- tares are currently utilised for cropping, with the remainder to ell, to name a few, there were many others. As an 18 year old it run on 1200 head of Dohne Merinos. seemed like every old trialler wanted to come along and pass Milton’s Father was “Old School” in his farming practises and on their knowledge.” used Border Collies to assist with his sheep. His forefathers There was a turning point in Milton’s trialling career and that originally immigrated from England around 1856 and settled was attending a working dog school run by Greg Prince in in the area that Milton and some of his other family members the ’90’s. He developed a whole new approach to training his still live and farm in today. dogs which has influenced him right through to this current At the age of 12 his Grandfather took him to watch his first day. Milton said “I want the dog to be natural and use its brain sheep dog trial and this provoked his interest in the sport. when it needs to, yet be obedient to me when I need it to be. When he was 15, a former very successful trialler, Malcolm To have the strength it needs when I need it and to leave things Sorrell, whose prefix was Sorrego who was running trials at alone when nothing needs to be done, and the brains to work Milang at that time, asked Milton to come along and assist all that out”. with releasing sheep. Spending time watching and listening One of Milton’s philosophies is “To get the job done”, whether to the triallers at the event increased his passion to join the trialling or farm work. “You can finesse your work next time,” sport and his Uncle gave him his first pedigreed pup to get he said. “In a trial you aim to get the sheep through the obsta- him started. Her name was Echo Park Gem. Echo Park prefix cles and in the pen in a given time, however some people may was later taken on by his brother Stefan. spend extra time losing less points along the way and may only Milton’s first trial was with Echo Park Gem in April 1985 at the reach the first or second obstacle. I’m a farmer, it’s no good Strathalbyn trial, he was 18 years old. They won the Encour- when the shearer comes and there’s no sheep in the yard, but age event and the following week entered Murray Bridge and they went through the first and second gateways beautifully”. won the Novice. This early success prompted Milton to think He also stated “I don’t go to trials to beat other triallers, I go trialling was an easy sport, however he soon discovered he was there to beat the sheep and to be happy with my dogs run. If wrong as it took him a number of years before his next taste we happen to end up on the top and win, that’s great, but as of a win. long as my dog and I have done our best, I’m happy. Farming is my bread and butter, it feeds my kids, trialling is important www.stockdogs.com.au AWSDM 7
to me but if I can’t get my farm work completed, I haven’t got a high standard of working sheep dogs”, of which I make no time to trial”. apologies for, because that’s what the old fella’s that started this Milton shares his home with his wife Kylie and their three thing wanted to achieve. I believe that’s what we should con- adorable children, Aaron, Charlotte and Rhiannon. Sheep dog tinue to aspire to.” trialling has become a “Family Thing”. As well as Milton being During this time SAWSDA have started running regular train- President of SAWSDA, Kylie is Co Publicity Officer. Charlotte ing days to assist new triallers or members of the public want- is keen on training and working sheep dogs, whereas Aaron is ing to develop their skills at training young dogs for sheep showing interest in the judging side, and often sits alongside work. Not only is it encouraging new people to the sport, it Milton at trials watching the competitors and learning how is also increasing funds to the association which makes it an and where to deduct points. Rhiannon is hoping to learn the extremely productive exercise. time keeping side of the sport as she’s watched her Mum doing The training days are mostly held in Strathalbyn, however they this on many occasions. did put on a school in the North at Paskeville and are hoping When asked about his favourite dog Milton said “ It was An- to offer one on Kangaroo Island in the future due to some in- drina Ji, he was by Alibi The Boss out of Echo Park Gem. He terest there. As far as the running of the Training Schools and got injured as a pup and we developed a very special bond. He the Association goes, Milton has a very proactive and support- often penned at trials and was a consistent, loyal dog. He was ive Council. “The SAWSDA Association is in good hands. I the ring bearer at my wedding to Kylie. Another was Andrina have confidence in my council members” Milton said. Bono, he would have been the perfect dog, however he devel- When asked about his vision for SAWSDA Milton said “I’d like oped a rare skin cancer at two years old, and after spending to see SAWSDA’s membership increased and our relevance in thousands of dollars on Chemo treatment, he passed away at the rural industry also increased. Our involvement with the three years old. Dog/Cat Management Board here in S.A. over the new chang- Amadeus Mick, who is currently still alive and 16 years old, es in the Dog/Cat laws has seen our association go from rela- has been my most successful dog. He was out of Wanappe tively unknown, to actually having a voice and being included Cole and by Marlowe Kelly 2nd and bred by Gavin and Joanne and involved in decisions regarding the changes in the canine Flavel. 5 of his grand kids were in the placings at the 2017 SA Industry at a State Government level.” He added, “I believe re- State Championships. He has represented for SA, won the SA ferring to sheep dog trialling solely as a sport limits the impor- State Championships in 2005 & runner up in 2007. Andrina tance of what it truly is. Ultimately a trial is the testing ground Floss, who was by OK Guv and out of Sommerville Josie. I can to ensure our breeding lines are on track and relevant for the win open events with her but she’s also invaluable on the farm, Rural Industry”. she’s extremely versatile”. Miltons final words were “Trialling and training sheep dogs This is Milton’s second stint at Presidency with a combined has given me so much and I want to see our SA Association be total of approximately six years in the position. Milton said strong once again. The landscape for sheep dogs has changed “I started out this time to use the “Aim of the Association” so much over the years, particularly in paddock work, muster- as the guide for where I should lead the association, especial- ing styles, mob sizes etc. There are far less work requirements ly the reference to “To promote amongst sheep breeders and for the paddock dog. I take the responsibility now, having the general public a wide human interest of the working sheep spent time with past stockmen, to pass on the knowledge they dog and its work”. gave to me, along with the things I’ve learned through trial The second point being “Encourage, develop and maintain and error myself.” 8 AWSDM www.stockdogs.com.au
THE WAY WE WERE Story by Peter Brown with input from Snow Ellis, Geoff Gibson and Robert Johnson LES ARMSTROOnNe mGan and his dogs Les Armstrong was born in 1912 and lived his early life around the time, to be a large sum for a work-ing dog. At the same Broken Head on the Far North Coast NSW. His family, like trial another dog of Les’, Dan a son of Peggy, finished sec- a lot of families of those years, were involved in agricul-ture ond and his other entry Uncle Bob finished third. All three with Les’ family growing bananas and dairying. In an inter- dogs were related and scored within a point of each other. view many years later he said he worked the first 23 years of Les bred and developed the Alphadale line of Colies from Peg- his life on the family property for his keep and no wages. Les gy and the line had a major influence on the sheep and cattle was very good with animals and earned extra income break- dog breeds in Australia. It was 1962 when Les decided to seri- ing in draught and riding horses as well as the lead bullocks ously go on the road with his team but not as a trialler, but to for teams. provide demonstrations at agricul-tural shows up and down He had a connection with dogs and the first re- the East Coast of Australia. He started with a demonstration at corded association was in 1955 at Broken Head. the local Lismore Show and was then invited to demonstrate There are photos from this period with dogs being trained on at the Brisbane EKKA. fowl, and it wasn’t long before Les had a very good bitch he This became a lucrative business for Les with exhibitions at called Peggy. She was primarily trialled as a cattle dog and consecutive Newcastle shows and many other smaller events. in 1962 won the Open trial at the North Coast National Ex- The ultimate trip was three months in Tasmania in 1962. hibition. Les was offered 150 Pound for Peggy by the judge. The demonstrations weren’t necessarily with livestock as He turned down the offer even though it was considered, at 10 AWSDM www.stockdogs.com.au
Perfect Score Alphadale King - NSW State championship Alphadale Slim - Novice and Open QLD Sheep Dog Cham- the dogs were trained to perform several routines; as a pionship in the same year. rugby league team, or lining up 8 dogs and weaving one Alphadale Sadie - QLD Novice Sheep Dog Champion at her dog through the line in reverse, or positioning the dogs first trial and then won five consecutive Open trials. Accu- in a circle then taking one dog to gather some sheep and mulated 19 wins 1989 to be QLD Sheep Dog Year. herd them into the centre of the other dogs. Or running a Alphadale Ken - QLD Sheep Dog Year 1988 sheep dog trial but having each dog work the sheep along Windeyer Roy - Won his first trial at 5 month of age. QLD as an individual and pass the sheep on to the next dog. Sheep Dog Year 1987. Won twelve Open Cattle dog trials. The exhibitions drew very large crowds. Alphadale Pearl - Won her first trial at 12 months of age. Eventually Les decided to retire from exhibitions as he con- Sold to Greg Prince where she achieved two perfect scores of sidered it was becoming very difficult to work with show 100 committees. A couple of years prior to going on the road Percival’s Toy - Won 4 open Sheep Dog Trials and QLD with the exhibitions Les started dabbling in sheep dog tri- Sheep Dog of the Year 1986 prior to being sold to Geoff Gib- alling even though he didn’t have any sheep to train with. son. Won many Cattle Dog Trials All his dogs at this time had only seen cattle and compet- Alphadale Josie - Australian Cattle dog Champion twice ed in cattle dog tri-als. His answer to this problem was to Alphadale Shep - Owned by Neil Johnson, trialled by Les show the dog what sheep looked like prior to competing. and won many Cattle dog trials. He had found the sport where he and his dogs would excel. Alphadale Duncan - NSW Open Sheep Dog Champion 1985 Les had the bug and travelled throughout Queensland and and 1992. Achieved the per-fect score of 100 at the NSW New South Wales competing, forming friendships and win- Sheep Dog Championships 1995. ning many titles. He became known amongst the triallers as Alphadale Banjo - many trial wins in sheep and cattle trials “Armie”. In 1973 he won the prestigious Australian National Alphadale Chad - Open Sheep Dog Trial winner. Tied with Championship for the first time with Al-phadale Scotty and Alphadale Dan for 1998 NSW Open Cattle Dog. again in 1977 with Scotties daughter Alphadale Kim. Alphad- Alphadale Tim - Open Sheep Dog Trial winner ale Dick also won the maiden at the Nationals in that year. Alphadale Kelly - Open Beef Week Cattle Dog Trial and During the 1970 - 80’s sheep dog tri-alling was very popular many other sheep and cattle tri-als. and competitions were held at most agricultural shows. There Gibson’s Teena - Open Sheep Dog Trial winner for Allan was also a stand alone circuit that included State Champion- Smith. Les swapped Teena for Borderview Sport. ships and prestigious events in lo-cal towns. Wool was an im- portant commodity to rural Australia at this time and dogs were an essential part of the industry. www.stockdogs.com.au AWSDM 11
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WEEKEND WARRIOR near Kempsey, NSW, Geoff had no experience with stock other than his grandmothers’ dairy cows that required little work and obediently came to the milking door like well trained puppies. Geoff met his wife, Sharon, when she was just 15 and he 17, they moved to Brisbane and married on the 5th of May, 1990. From there, they moved to Ayres Rock and first Dylan then Jess added to their family. Geoff and Sharon bought a motel in Narromine in 2003, which they sold and moved to the Sun- shine Coast in 2008. Geoff and Sharon again added to their family, a Kelpie pup- py they named Stella. The bond between Geoff and Stella is palatable, however having a working dog in suburbia has it’s problems and when Stella was 8 months old, it was suggested to Geoff that he take Stella to try sheep dog training, a move that led him to George and Lyndal Nichols door at Sheepdogs on the Cove, a small sheep and cattle property nestled on the outskirts of Woodford that can be attributed to many Week- end Warriors in QLD, get their start in Yard, Utility, 3 Sheep and ANKC trialling. From Ayres Rock Every weekend, in the early hours of the morning, Geoff and to Allora Story By Annette Ross Stella would make the 2 hour round trip from the sunshine coast to Woodford to train, Geoff and Stella would compete Photos: Supplied in short course trials held at the property and help with the stock handling. Once the domain of the sheep/cattle farmer, originally to At only 12, Jess was your typical suburbia almost teenager, who’s pit their best dogs against their neighbours, the sport, only experience with working dogs was the family pet, Stella. the iconic and very Australian 3 sheep trial is thought Jess had no contact with stock at all, but decided one morning to be struggling a little with lack of new blood, new competitors. to tag along with Dad to find out what this sheep herding was all about.. Her impressions of a sheep property were ‘it stinks here’. The daily struggle of drought, wild dogs, and the day to day After a few weekends, Sharon Dungey took Jess under her problems of our farmers, the younger generation are opting to wing, and offered her the opportunity to try her hand at work- leave the family property and find their feet in the ‘Big Smoke’, ing her dog Wondarra Gemma and as they say, the die was leaving our older stoic competitors, those with such a wealth cast,. of knowledge, to keep the sport going. However, the weekend warriors, the new generation of tri- allers who go to extreme lengths to train and trial their loved working dogs are helping to keep the sport alive, not only 3 sheep, but yard and utility trials as well. Living on a house block in suburbia on the Sunshine Coast Stanthorpe Trial 2018 QLD, presents all the usual problems for the Weekend Warri- 4th Encourage or, limitation of dogs due to council regulations, neighbours, and lack of readily available stock for training, however that hasn’t stopped father and daughter duo, Geoff and Jessica Brown, from regularly competing at 3 sheep trials. Although growing up in a rural area on the mid north coast, 14 AWSDM www.stockdogs.com.au
WEEKEND WARRIOR Photo: Kim Grimely One of Geoff and Jess’s biggest supporters was wife and moth- er, Sharon, although battling cancer which was diagnosed in Geoff and Stella 2013, Sharon attended as many trials that she could but with Jess became a regular Weekend Warrior, getting up in the her deteriorating health this became more difficult. The last early hours to accompany Geoff to training, working Sha- trial Sharon attended was Allora 2017, even though being ex- ron Dungey’s Gemma, and under her watchful eye and tremely ill; she made a big effort in going as it was Jessica’s tutelage, Jess’s handling improved so it was decided that birthday weekend. She had to be driven down to the ring to Jess needed a dog of her own and in February 2016, Lyga- watch Jess and Geoff in Encourage final and sadly their world jo Ollie was added to their pack, from Matthew Mitchell. was turned upside down when Sharon lost her battle with Walking out to the starting peg at a 3 sheep trial can be daunt- cancer in November 2017.. Working their dogs, attending the ing for any competitor. One can only imagine what was going sheep dog trails and the huge support of the 3 sheep and sheep through the mind of a 13year old, tiny slip of a girl with a big dog fraternity has helped fill the huge void of losing a wife and smile who barely 10 months before, had only seen sheep in mother. passing paddocks, when Jess and Ollie competed in their first Geoff now also needed a dog he could trial and Barker’s Rolly 3 sheep trial at Warwick in July 2016. from Gary Barker, joined their pack and so started the quest for more training, more knowledge, the many,many miles travelling to train and names synonymous with QLD sheep trialling, Colin top, Gary Barker, Sharon and Mike Dungey recognising the passion and dedication, all too happy to share their knowledge. From that first step into the trial ring, Jess and Geoff have been familiar faces at the presentations: Jess has gone on to achieve: 1st Jim Flynn memorial Trophy – Clifton, 2017 4th Novice, Tara, 2017 3rd Encourage, Allora 2017 1st encourage Tenterfield 2018 4th Encourage, Stanthorpe 2018 First in the Open Sheepdogs on the Cove Short course 2018 5th encourage, Toowoomba 2018 and equal 2nd with Geoff in Encourage, Dalby 2018 Tenterfield Trial 1st Encourage - Jessica 2nd Encourage -Geoff www.stockdogs.com.au AWSDM 15
MICK HUDSON MGH WORKING DOGS Mick is a third-generation stockman & working dog trainer. He musters cattle, sheep & feral goats on his properties with his working dogs & also competes with these same dogs in 3 sheep dog trials to showcase his stockman skills & ability of his well educated dogs. Mick has been very successful in the last few years, “I feed all of my dogs nothing but winning the National, Commonwealth & Supreme the best, so I can get the best Australian Championships + many other open trials. out of them.” He also won NSWSDWI Handler of the Year and Dog of the Year in 2015 & 2017 and is representing Australia in 2018. Mick has 2 day training clinics at his property near Dubbo NSW & from time to time has MGH bred pups for sale. See website for information & contact details. Mick’s passion & dedication to his dogs starts with nutrition & to achieve the best results he feeds them the most complete high-performance food he can. www.mickhudson.com.au Nothing but the best for Mick’s dogs! Hypro Premium with REAL KANGAROO & TURKEY for High Performance Working Dogs is a Complete & Balanced Grain Free diet specially formulated to help maintain the health & well-being of all active dogs breeds, age & size. TYPICAL COMPOSITION 32% 22% Crude Protein Fat 1% Calcium (min) 0.8% Phosphorus (min) 405 ME (kcal/100g) NUTRITIONALLY FORMULATED DEVELOPED WITH BEET PULP & NATURAL ANTIOXIDANTS FOR ADULT WORKING DOGS CHICORY ROOT FOR DIGESTION FOR IMMUNE SYSTEM Optimal blend of extra proteins, fats, and Beet pulp and chicory root, excellent Peas, carrot, spinach, alfalfa, tomato, oils, vitamins and minerals to help keep sources of prebiotic fibres, encourage blueberry, cranberry and apple contain your active dog healthy and happy. beneficial bacteria to help improve natural antioxidants that can help support digestion and provide healthy firm stools. the development of a strong immune INFUSED WITH MEAT system, helping maintain good health for FOR MUSCLES OMEGA 3 & 6 FOR SKIN & COAT active dogs. Real kangaroo and turkey meats supply the Sunflower, flaxseed, fish and emu oils protein with essential amino acids which provide essential fatty acids (omega 3 and EMU OIL FOR ANTI-INFLAMMATORY are the building blocks for the development 6) to help maintain healthy skin and Emu Oil is and excellent source of essential and maintenance of strong active muscles. shiny coat. fatty acids (Omega 3, 6, 9) to help nourish your dog’s skin, and joints. Hypro Pet Care continues to be the MAJOR SPONSOR of To order Contact Hypro Pet Care Australian NSW Queensland Victorian South Australian Western Australian Sean Hickling Sheepdog Workers Sheepdog Workers WorkingSheepdog Working Sheepdog Working Sheepdog Working Sheepdog Mobile: 0408 626 784 Email: [email protected] Association Association Inc. Association Association Association Association 15 Box Avenue, Wilberforce NSW 2756 www.hypropetcare.com.au
A DOG’S LIFE Story and Photos by Janice DeGennaro SOMERVILLE NELL There have been many great dogs over the years and A Freak of Nature many more will come in the future, however few will come with such a tragic back history as Somerville Nell. Bull Terrier bitch with a new litter at that time and so Nell Bred in the picturesque countryside of Tasmania by renown was placed with the litter and raised by this surrogate bitch. sheep dog trialler Malcolm Taylor. Nell almost didn’t begin Floss had been a very special, very clever bitch and a bit of a life at all. After a few attempts to mate her Mother Moccara natural freak and Nell inherited all of these traits. Nell won Floss to one of his own dogs, Malcolm discovered the male her very first big trial around the age of 18 months with Mal- was sterile. He approached Bernard McGlashan about it. colm. She had an extremely successful career with the high- light being winning the Australian Supreme in Northam W.A. in 2016, while Malcolm himself was extremely ill with Cancer. At the time Bernard had a young, upcoming but unprov- Around five years ago when Malcolm first began his long en dog by the name of Grassvalley Spud. The mating was a battle with cancer, Bernard took Nell on temporarily. Mal- success, however Floss went into labour prematurely and colm and Bernard have very different methods of working was rushed to the vet where an emergency caesarean was their dogs. Malcolm predominantly uses voice commands, performed. Sadly during the procedure Floss died on the whereas Bernard uses whistle commands. As Nell was only table and Nell was the sole survivor of the entire litter. with him temporarily until Malcolm recovered, Bernard had A friend of Malcolm’s took Nell and nursed her through the to work her using Malcolm’s voice commands. This is not an night and as fortune would have it, there was a Staffordshire easy task when you have a different method you have used automatically for many years. Despite this handicap and to www.stockdogs.com.au AWSDM 17
Bernard’s credit, he and Nell, during the 6-8 months they the course better. When we got to the pen unfortunately one were together, came fourth in the Australian Supreme at sheep poked his nose just past the line of the pen which lost Cobar in N.S.W. and won the Tasmanian Championships. us one point. Our final score was 99 out of 100,” said Bernard. Nell returned to Malcolm once he regained his health and In their Top 20 run, the sheep were stopping to graze a few went on to win numerous trials around Tasmania and the times, however not enough to cause any loss of points and mainland. In 2016 and despite Malcolm’s once again failing they finished the run with a perfect score of 100 out of 100. health, she achieved the result of Dog of the Year in Tasmania. A perfect score is a very rare thing in a 3 sheep trial with only a It was around September 2017 that Malcolm made the decision, handful of triallers ever having the chance to achieve it. due to his cancer battle, to give Nell to Bernard permanently. It was the first time in either Bernard or Nell’s careers they It wasn’t an easy decision to make, not just because she’d had reached this achievement. The pair went out in the been with Malcolm her whole life and taken him on so Final and secured 1st place which is a monumental re- many successful journeys, but also because he’d had of- sult with only a small handful of points lost over 3 runs. fers of large amounts of money for her sale. However be- Since the Commonwealth Championships Bernard and Nell ing the loyal man that Malcolm is, he chose to honour his have continued to have success. They won Bothwell trial in promise to Bernard that she would go to him if he could no March 2018 and Pyengana trial over Easter 2018. They are longer continue working his dogs. For this Bernard is ex- State Representatives for Tasmania in the Australian Su- tremely grateful and holds Malcolm in the highest respect. preme to be held in Hawkesbury N.S.W. in October 2018. When Bernard took Nell permanently it was only one month “My goal is to get Nell into the Australian team to compete before the 2017 Australian Supreme in Seymour. He began against N.Z. in 2019. She actually qualified to compete in 2017 getting her used to his many whistle commands, however with Malcolm, however due to Malcolm’s failing health, he at Seymour, he used a combination of Malcolm’s voice com- was forced to with draw” Bernard said. mands and his whistle. By February 2018 she was completely Nell is currently seven years old. She’s a very natu- working to Bernard’s whistles and the pair put up some of the ral and strong bitch which she needs to be due to the best runs ever witnessed at the Commonwealth Champion- fact she is all white. Often a light coloured dog without ships in Port Fairy, Victoria. This resulted in them winning the strength will have more difficulty moving some sheep. Open event and was the first time either Bernard or Nell had “She’s loyal and eager to please and just wants to be with you. ever won the Commonwealth Championships.“I felt our first run in the Open was our best run as the sheep flowed around 18 AWSDM www.stockdogs.com.au
She gives me no trouble around the kennel and is just a love- ly bitch to have,” said Bernard. There have been a couple of attempts at mating Nell, however so far nothing has been suc- cessful. “If we don’t get a litter from her it will be the end of those bloodlines,” Bernard said. Nell’s Mother Moccara Floss, was undoubtedly one of the best dogs in Australia for approximately 2-3 years. She won a Supreme and a National only 3-4 months apart, making her one of the only dogs in Australia to achieve this. She died at the age of 7 and apart from Nell, had only one other litter to a dog called Amadeus Mick. That litter produced an exceptional trialling dog called Somer- ville Clyde, owned and worked by Stephen Geraghty from S.A., who together have won a multitude of trials and have represented S.A. at numerous Supreme events. Nell’s Father, Grassvalley Spud, is one hell of a dog, however he’s too strong for trialling. At home he does all of Bernard’s farm work and lambing work and is an invaluable asset on the property. He’s extremely loyal and a beautiful natured dog. Bernard said “Nell is a dog that all of us try to get in our life time and I consider myself extremely lucky to have the oppor- tunity to have her in mine.” SHADOW’S FARM PHOTOGRAPHY We specialise in animal events & portraiture. Our aim is to capture the true essence of our subjects, whether working sheep or simply dozing on the Check out our work at back of the work ute. Shadow’s Farm Photography on FACEBOOK JANICE DE GENNARO PH: 08 85292302 EM:[email protected] P.O. Box 259 WINDSOR S.A. 5501 creating fur-ever memories www.stockdogs.com.au AWSDM 19
VET CHECK Canine Reproduction – Part 2 Canine Reproduction Part 1 focused on canine breeding management. This issue we will focus on optimal pregnancy care, if and how you can help during whelping and when veterinary intervention is necessary. Is your Bitch a good Breeding Candidate? Vaccination Regime Even if you feel you are doing all the right things you may not Puppy end up with a healthy litter of pups. Your bitch may not con- - 6-8 weeks old (C3- distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus) ceive, may abort, have issues throughout pregnancy or during - 10-12 weeks old (C3 +/- KC - bordatella bronchiseptica, whelping, or produce unhealthy or defective puppies. parainfluenza) To increase the likelihood of a successful litter, prior to breed- Bitch/Adult ing, bitches should be in an ideal health condition. She should - Annually (C3 or C5) be her normal active self, eating and drinking well, no vomit - Parvovirus killed vaccination - a MUST if pregnant and not or diarrhoea, be of sound weight (obese or underweight bitch- up to date with vaccinations, or if in a parvovirus endemic/ es can lead to many difficulties in pregnancy) and must be high risk area. Must be given at least 4 weeks prior to whelping fully vaccinated and wormed. She should not be mated until so the bitch has time to develop immunity to pass onto the after her second heat. This is to ensure she is mature enough puppies when lactating. to conceive, carry through the pregnancy and whelp without - Disclaimer - some veterinary practices may have tri-annual over an- growth related physical restrictions (e.g. pelvic size). nual C3 vaccinations available, these are also effective. Some practices It is also ethical to check breeding animals for hereditary may also recommend further vaccinations depending on geographic faults prior to breeding them so that their puppies do not in- need (eg. Leptospirosis in some parts of northern Australia). Refer to herit the trait. For example, hip dysplasia, abdominal/inguinal your local vets for appropriate geographical vaccination advice. hernias, or for males retained testicles (cryptorchids). Bitches must be up to date with all vaccinations. Distemper, Hepa- Worming Regime titis and Parvovirus are all life-threatening diseases and are preventable with effective vaccination programs. Bitches pass Puppy on immunity developed from these vaccines through the pla- - 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 weeks (fortnightly until 12 weeks old) – centa to the foetus and when lactating pass orally to the pup intestinal wormer (eg Drontal, Fenpral etc). through colostrum (milk in first 24-48h). - 4, 5 and 6 months (4 weekly from 12 weeks to 6 months old) This is especially important in young pups prior to their vac- – intestinal wormer. cinations at 6-8weeks old. Effective worming regimes are also - Then 3 monthly ongoing – intestinal wormer plus tape imperative to prevent life threatening infections of round wormer. worm and hookworm in puppies. If the bitch is not effectively wormed prior to and throughout pregnancy, dormant worms Bitch/Adult will activate and migrate through the placenta (roundworm) - 3 monthly - intestinal wormer plus tapewormer and milk (hookworm) to the puppies. Worm infestations are - 4 weeks prior to whelping – intestinal wormer ideally in line very serious in puppies and cause anaemia (low red blood with 3 monthly wormer cells), diarrhoea, dehydration and death. Internal and external If you see your dog tieing it does not mean she will get preg- parasite infections are also completely preventable. nant. Alternatively, if you don’t see your dog tieing and she has a heat she may still get pregnant. There are a few options of di- Whelping Checklist agnosing pregnancy in bitches, if it is an unwanted pregnancy the earlier you know the more choices you have to deal with it. • Clean towels • Dental floss or strong thread to tie umbilicus Check out this free App • Lubricant for your phone • Hot water bottle or alternative external heating for First Aid for Pets Australia puppies (not too hot!) www.stockdogs.com.au AWSDM 21
Is my Bitch Pregnant? Is my Bitch Whelping? Palpation – cheap and easy but not always accurate. Foetuses A week prior to whelping the mother starts to lie in her whelp- need to be relatively developed to feel in the abdomen and so ing box. She may nest and scratch at the blankets and newspa- it is most reliable from 4 weeks post mating. If dogs are fat it per you have in there. A few days prior the mother may have a is more difficult to feel a small foetus through the fat. From clear thick mucoid discharge from her vulva. This is complete- this method you cannot tell how many puppies or how healthy ly normal. If the discharge is discoloured or smelly you should they are. take her straight to the vet. Radiographs – only effective from 42 - 52 days after mating 24h prior to whelping there is a small but significant drop in (6+ weeks) when the foetus skeleton develops/calcifies. The core temperature. To detect this accurately you must take her most effective method to determine number of puppies ac- temperature at the same time in the morning and evening as curately. she will naturally deviate at different times of day. Bitches will Ultrasound – effective from day 24. A great method to con- also often refuse food in this time frame. firm pregnancy and to evaluate foetal viability via heartbeat. Blood/Urine testing – not readily available due to the unique Whelping Stages reproduction system of the dog. A blood test can be per- formed through the lab however it is expensive and must take Stage 1- Uterine contractions begin. The bitch is usually rest- place after 29 days of pregnancy. As it allows faster and earlier less, nervous and shows nesting behaviour (clawing newspa- detection and is cheaper, ultrasonography is the preferred and per and blankets to make a nest). This usually lasts 6-12h but most common method of pregnancy diagnosis. can last up to 24h. You should leave her in privacy in an appro- If you have followed the above directions, you are well on your priate area for whelping. way. The next most important health issue is nutrition. Your Stage 2 - Starts with full dilation of the cervix and ends with pregnant bitch needs to be on a well balanced diet at mainte- expulsion of the puppy. nance levels for the first 4 weeks of pregnancy. We do not want Stage 3 - Starts with expulsion of the puppy and ends with her putting on extra weight and having issues when it comes expulsion of the placenta. Stage 3 does not necessarily follow time to whelp. stage 2 every time. If you get 2 puppies then 2 placentas that is normal. How do I prepare for Whelping? When to call the Vet? From four weeks onwards food should increase slowly by 25- Dogs have been giving birth without assistance for centuries 50%. The food should again increase in second week lactation and normally need no interference. However, a vigilant eye up to twice that of maintenance levels. And slowly be reduced can be the difference between life or death for the puppies and just prior to weaning, so at maintenance levels again one week the mother. If your bitch is busy looking after one pup, you after lactation finishes. should take care of the next. Do not let her chew the umbilical A sufficient whelping box should be made available 7-14 days cord too close to the abdomen. If it is bleeding you can tie it off prior to whelping. Pre-made ones can be bought, or you can with dental floss. If the puppy is not breathing or appears weak make your own to size. It should be placed in familiar sur- you can stimulate it by holding it in a towel and gently but roundings and protected from rain wind and cold. It needs firmly rubbing its chest. Try to clear mucus from its nose and to be private enough so the bitch can whelp with minimal mouth by controlled upside down full body flicks (must sup- stress but easily accessible if she requires help. There needs to port entire body especially neck and do not drop the puppy!). be enough room for the bitch to lie out comfortably and not It is also important to remember bitches get agitated through- squash the pups. The walls need to be high enough to prevent out whelping but often start and stop, stand up and lie down, the pups from escaping, but low enough so the bitch can exit strain and have a break. This is a completely normal part of with ease for a break. Finally it must be clean and substrate whelping. It can take many hours from start to finish. Espe- should be soft and comfortable for her and the pups (e.g. cially if there is a large litter. However, when there are issues newspaper and towels/blankets). with whelping time is of the essence. Contact your vet and get It is difficult to determine if your bitch is actually whelping them to help as soon as possible. Call the vet if: and may need assistance or if she is just agitated. Luckily there - There is bloody or green discharge prior to the first puppy. are some distinct behavioural and physiological changes that - Your bitch is actively straining for more than 30 - 60 minutes most bitches experience directly prior to whelping. without producing a pup. - If there is no straining for more than 4 hours between pups. By Genevieve Heffernan She may not have enough energy to push out puppies or could BVSc Partner Camperdown Veterinary Clinic have life threatening low levels of calcium. You should consult your vet. 1 Leura St, Camperdown, Vic - If your dog is shaking (but usually doesn’t), seizuring, or very PH: (03) 5593 1077 flat, you should contact your vet immediately. - An undelivered placenta. This can cause a serious and life threatening postnatal infection. 22 AWSDM www.stockdogs.com.au
With our dogs, we look for calm natures, that think and work things With our sheep, we strive to breed top out for themselves and are able to quality stock by Sire selection that is lii their work rate to dominate their stock without unnecessary violence guided by strict adherence to and back off to give the stock relief. conformation and type, as well as We only breed pups from dogs that outstanding production traits. We have have proven themselves in real rams available at most times of the year. world working situations. Scrub Road, Tenterfield NSW 2372 www.Eventine.com.au www.facebook.com/EventineKelpieDorperStud/ Ph. (02) 6736 2086 Mob. 0422 544 933 www.stockdogs.com.au AWSDM 23
STOCKMANStory and Photos by Janice De Genarro PROFILE Ralph - The Drover, The Stock Buyer, The Manager 26 AWSDM www.stockdogs.com.au
Ralph Whitbourne was born in 1936 in Bairnsdale Victoria to of his working career. In 2014 Ralph moved to Kyabram in a non farming family. His great grandmother was of Scottish Victoria. heritage and hisown Father was killed during the war years. During his time at Deniliquin in the 1970’s, Ralph became His Mother remarried and moved the family to Melbourne involved with the Deniliquin Sheepdog Trial and although in 1943. Ralph began his working life in 1950 at the age of 14 he never competed, he was an active participant behind the years as a drover. In 1962 he upgraded from droving to be- scenes. In 2014 he helped run the trial with Brian Harrington. come a sheep buyer for J.H. Ralph. After 4 years in this po- Over the years Ralph had many good working dogs, howev- sition he relocated to Deniliquin in N.S.W. and took the role er his favourite was a Border Collie that he got from a man as Stock Buyer for Farmers and Graziers Direct Meat Supply. called Jeff Jolly, who was a well-known trialler from the west- Unfortunately this company closed its doors around 1968 and ern district. The dog was called “Spike”. “I had over 50 dogs so it was time for a change of position for Ralph. throughout the years but Spike could read your mind” Ralph He then took on the role as a property manager at Conargo in said, “He was very perfect in his work, both in the yards and N.S.W. and worked there for 3 years until 1971. At this point in the paddock. He never chewed anything as a pup and was he purchased a droving plant and moved around working never naughty.” throughout N.S.W. until 1983. During his years on the droving plant he owned many Kelpies. From 1983 and for the next 10 years, Ralph lived and managed He’d often have between 14-15 dogs at a time, these were a Balpool Station in N.S.W. Located just out of Moulamein, it is mixture of Border Collies and Kelpies but more so Kelpies. today one of the largest piggeries in N.S.W. After leaving Bal- “I’ve done everything I ever wanted to do when I was a kid” pool he relocated back to Deniliquin and Ralph bought into a said Ralph, “I wanted to be a drover, stock buyer and property Livestock Transport business with his son and they success- manager and I achieved all 3 of these positions”. fully ran that until until 2008 when he sold the business and When asked if he has any regrets he stated “Only one, and that retired. was losing my wife while at Balpool Station at the age of 48 to Whilst owning and running the Stock Transport business, heart attack.” Ralph has known his current partner, Julie, for they became the very first Livestock Carriers in Australia to be 10 years. Ralph and his late wife had 2 children, a son and a Quality Assured through the Livestock Carriers Association daughter. After the sale of their Livestock Trucking business, of Australia, something Ralph is still very proud of, “Comput- his son took employment driving grain trucks. ers were difficult to learn at the time, but we needed to use Ralph has been blessed with 4 grandchildren and one great them to gain the Quality Assurance, so despite the extra work granddaughter. Ralph currently owns a Border Collie bitch load, we persevered and it paid off ” Ralph said. called “Lass”. She’s 6 years old. She used to work cattle on his Once retired Ralph began spectating at sheepdog trials, his partners farm, however now, like Ralph, Lass is retired and love for stock work was still deep within him and this was a only sees sheep when they visit a sheep dog trial. way to stay involved in something that had been a major part www.stockdogs.com.au AWSDM 27
www.facebook.com/CarrdoonWorkingDogs www.stockdogs.com.au AWSDM 29
PHOTO ESSAY Photography by Bec Sneath - Rural Love Photography Photography enquiries to Zoe Crouch: [email protected] 30 AWSDM www.stockdogs.com.au
Based in Kyogle in Northern NSW, Bec Sneath and her husband own a mixed farming business combining dairy, beef and a truck haulage business. Bec has a passion for working dogs, horses and photography. Together they also run ’Wernobah Stock Dogs’ and currently Bec has four Border Collies in her team Riverside Riley, Riverside Lilly, Wernobah Ella and Alvaglen Grace. Bec’s photography began when she decided to take photos of what she loved around the farm. In the past 12 months her photography has grown substantially and is now a small part time business. Bec has progressed into photo shoots for families, weddings and businesses. Bec’s husband believes she spends more time taking photos on musters and working cattle than she does work these days. But Bec loves what she does and wants to show the world what they do. Bec’s dogs are working dogs but they have also become apart of their family. She counts herself lucky, living on a dairy farm, mustering cows twice a day and with plenty of young livestock to work. You can find Rural Love Photography on Facebook and Instagram.
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STATION PROFILE Story by Angie Snell Photo’s by Bronwyn Burnham A vibrant red dirt road winds gently towards Boogalgopal homestead, 20,000 hectares of cattle country near Eidsvold in Queensland. Named after Boogalgopal Creek that runs through the prop- erty for about 35km. An area with fairly predictable rainfall, open grasslands and eucalyptus for- ests, Boogalgopal is the perfect location for grazing. 38 AWSDM www.stockdogs.com.au
Boogal Station NT www.stockdogs.com.au AWSDM 39
Owned by Tex and Bronwyn Burnham, Boogalgopal ing a teenager in the late sixties he was just as proud is a thriving beef producing enterprise with an addi- as punch to have a dog that actually followed him, and tional focus on the raising of 100% grass reared Brah- not his older brother!” Mitzy, the Blue Heeler, was use- man and Charbray bulls, supplying breeding bulls to custom- ful for pushing the still Hereford cross cattle along. ers looking for “non grain fed” bulls. Tex was given a longer haired collie style bitch by a neighbour Although this has not always been the case. Originally a part after losing Mitzy, and it was with this bitch that their ‘love of “Rawbelle”, a large selection taken up by Adolphus Tre- affair’ with working dogs began. vethan in 1848, Boogalgopal creek country was considered “In the mid eighties we attended a working dog weekend with a problem area and too rough to be of use. Hereford cattle Neil McDonald and although very impressed with the stand- were run on Boogalgopal in the 1950’s, however after battling ard of control he had achieved over his team of Kelpie dogs, mother nature, it was decided to run hardier cattle more suit- we have stuck to a system of “Training on the Job”…… allow- ed to the type of country. ing older dogs to teach younger dogs while out on a muster. Owned by the Burnham family since 1949, the proper- There have been a few stand out dogs over the years. Bron- ty was divided between brothers, with Tex and Bronwyn wyn recalls one dog in particular. “Melton Frankie Blue now running a successful breeding program on their share. Eyes”, a dog we obtained from our daughter Bec Comiskey Bronwyn also runs a popular Facebook page sharing beau- and her husband David from Alpha. Frankie was a rangy tiful photographs of life on Boogalgopal. Both commercial white and black Border Collie with one distinctive blue eye, and stud cattle graze on long swaying grasses among gums and named after the other famous blue eyed Frank Sinatra!” with pink setting suns as a back drop. It is simply stunning. Tex and Bronwyn sell approximately 120 bulls a year as well Frankie has been used for breeding working dogs on Boogal- as commercial grass reared Brahman steers and it is in this gopal. “His line has kept us in useful dogs until this day.” “Of picturesque scene that these cattle are born and raised. course certain stories go down in the Boogal “folklore” about It is fitting that in such an ideal location that stock work on the prowess of certain dogs.” Bronwyn tells of one such sto- Boogalgopal follows tradition, mustering stock on horseback ry involving “Scud”. While mustering up in the heavy timber and utilising working dogs. “There is nothing better than a looking for a mob of recently purchased cows, the cattle were good horse and a team of good dogs. There is a real part- finally sighted but immediately fled further into the hills. By nership between a man and his dog and the loyalty of dogs the time the horses were unloaded ‘Scud’ and mates had head- is unsurpassed. To breed a team of working dogs gives great ed off in hot pursuit. After some time two dogs returned and satisfaction and a huge sense of achievement at the end of a cattle were nowhere to be seen. But a yelp in the distance alert- successful muster.” ed us to their location……. a very proud looking Scud was found holding the mob up on the ridge.” “Tex remembers his first dog ‘Mitzy’ a blue heeler... be- With some rough and steep terrain on Boogalgopal, Tex ex- 40 AWSDM www.stockdogs.com.au
plains the type of dog they prefer. “We prefer a dog that is smooth coated and can travel. Our dogs therefore are largely a Kelpie-Collie cross which also favours a holding ability rather than a pushing ability in working our cattle. There have been so many faithful workers over the years and dogs like Jo, Jess, Brandy, Sally, Coco, Blondie, Boots, Scud, Rusty, Patch, Tub, Ned, Turbo, Dino, Dixie and Pippa all bring a laugh or a smile as we recall their stories.” “Through the use of our working dogs we are able to reduce the need for extra labour, reduce the stress on both man, horse and beast in the handling of our herd. The benefit of keeping cattle calm and quietly guided along, not driven once mus- tered is enormous. Boogalgopal is a fantastic example of how modern breeding practices and tradition can be utilised with great success. The absence of bikes and petrol fumes makes for an almost roman- tic days work as the gentle thud of cattle moves through the classic Australian landscape. In a disconnected world the bond between man and his devoted partners (dogs and horses) is still evident, captured in photographs beautifully by Bronwyn. www.stockdogs.com.au AWSDM 41
DOGS BRED TO WORK Riverside Jake Hylite Dot Riverside Working Dogs * Service fee $400 *2014 Australian Maiden * 2014 Australian Open Cattle Champion Red Range *2014 Australian Novice Dog of the Year Champion Red Range * 2014 NSW Open Cattle Dog of the Year Ben Gould 0416 354 061 You Tube: Riverside Working Dogs
LEARN MORE ABOUT KELPIES, THEIR HISTORY & TRAINING FEATURED ON ABC LANDLINE THE KELPIE DOG - Selecting & Training KELPIE THE LEGEND ORIGINS OF THE AUSTRALIAN KELPIE DVD $49.00 DVD $35.00 364 PAGE, HARD COVER BOOK $69.00 This video training program has been described as the The story includes a fabulous insight into the history of From the north of Scotland to the outback of Australia and most comprehensive Kelpie training and breeding the Australian wool industry and highlights the amazing everywhere in between, wherever contributions to the program ever produced. Never before has three eminent contribution the Kelpie breed made in the commercial evolution of the Kelpie breed occurred, Bill and Kerry followed Kelpie people such as Gordon McMaster, Joe Spicer and development of the Australian outback. Kelpie’s earliest their ancestral trail gathering information from personal diaries, John Gedye come together in one training program. beginnings and positively identiies the people and eye witness accounts, newspapers and government records. events that created the Kelpie breed. This thorough research yielded new and startling information. WWW.KELPIEHISTORY.COM Ph. 0419 357 019 www.stockdogs.com.au AWSDM 43
Story & photo’s by Nan Lloyd Travelling with Dogs Many people are now hitting the road with their dogs. And it can be a goodexperience but there are some you don’t see them, still take as many precautions as possible. risks. I have driven across the Nullarbor a number Hot weather can make the trip fairly miserable for the of times and it is probably the most difficult section to trav- dogs and I try to avoid traveling during hot weather. When erse. Miles of flat boring driving,with livestock and wildlife on you plan your trip try to be a bit flexible about when you the road to be aware of. have to leave, so you can delay your trip if it looks like be- The danger of dog baits is the biggest issue. If possible have your ing over 40 degrees. However if this is not possible, there dogs wear muzzles whenever you let them out for a run. There are a few things that can help. I always carry a pump up is still a small risk of the dog licking a bait through the muzzle sprayer filled with water and will stop and spray the dogs though, so it pays to be observant. I try to park at caravan parks if if need be. Also putting wet towels under them can help. I can and always ask them if they are aware of any recent baiting. Good airflow through the vehicle will help and of course, However there is still the risk of birds carrying baits around plenty of cool water. Some dog boxes sit flush on the tray and so don’t leave them out for too long. I usually let my dogs out this can really raise the temperature. My cages have a raised in small lots. They are allowed to empty out then I put them floor, lined with marine ply, then rubber, and I add bedding if straight back in the ute. No long runs or bush walks. It is only the weather is cool. a few days of travel and the dogs will be fine without much When exercising them in hot weather don’t let them run exercise for this time. around too long so they are not too hot when getting back in If camping in the bush, look out for baiting signs, but even if the vehicle. Adding some water to their kibbles can help keep them hydrated, as kibbles will make them thirsty. I tend to feed a lot less while on the road as the dogs are not doing the 44 AWSDM www.stockdogs.com.au
march flies attacked the dogs to such a degree they just wanted to get back in their boxes. I always carry a first aid kit, including Scourban, syringes, many rolls of vetrap, (Its cheap and useful, for yourself as well as the dog) adhesive bandages, Cetrigen spray, antisep- tic cream, anti inflammatory tablets, insect repellent, wom- ens sanitary napkins are great for covering wounds and are sterile, (The plain brand ones are cheap), thermometer, long tweezers, antiseptic powder, Tuffoot, (A treatment for torn or sore pads) I also carry Hydrogen Peroxide which is not only a disinfectant but can be used to induce vomiting if need be. amount of exercise they are used to, and they are also less However please be careful if you need to do this, preferably likely to mess in their boxes. I have a water tank on my ute ring a vet first, or do your research on it before you travel. and also a large water bladder that sits on top of my dog cages Another useful product to keep on hand is coconut water, under the canopy. This gives me plenty of water so I am not which can be poured over the dogs kibbles if they have an up- changing their water and upsetting their stomachs. Some of set stomach to help with dehydration. I also carry dog boots the Nullarbor water can be less than ideal. in case of pad injuries. I like to let the dogs out first thing in the morning and then Some people travel in a convoy with others and while this is again in about 2-3 hours. After that they tend to be able to last great for some I find it hard sometimes as running dogs to- a fair while before they need another run. I try to let them out gether can be an issue, plus it means everyone has to travel at a at least four times a day, barring Nullarbor trips as I then let similar speed. However for security it is a good idea. them out as less often as possible due to the risks. I travel alone and have had the odd scary experience alone in Prior to my trip I try get the dogs in the best physical condi- an isolated are. Usually my dogs will bark and this is enough tion that I can, as they are less likely to get as much exercise to scare people off. I just find it easier to travel at my own pace on the road and their fitness will help them cope with travel. and stop whenever I want. I have a lot of music on my phone I carry an electric folding bicycle with me but it is not always and also listen to audio books, this can really help to pass the possible to use it, but it is nice to be able to take the dogs for time. On long trips I will travel between 400 and 700kms a a long run when possible. When traveling through towns, I day, sometimes more, depends how tired I am. It does not pay usually look for the show grounds, to either run the dogs or to push yourself too hard, you will pay for it in the following camp. Sometimes Google maps will find it for you but in some days. (This is probably not as relevant if you are Young, Ha). towns when I have searched for them it has taken me to a car- So heading off with your dogs need not be too daunting. The avan park. Often it is better to ask, or look for signs. If there is first trip will be the hardest, and then it gets easier. I keep a no show ground then a sports ground, pony club, football oval note of good places I have stopped at, for next time. Most of or such is usually ok. Not all these places allow camping, but all enjoy the experience, don’t look on it as something to just most show grounds do. get through, there is some lovely places to see along the way. Also be aware of kangaroos in some areas. It can be a bit scary if your dog disappears into the bush after one. Fortunately I have a dog who is very noisy while I am letting them all out and I doubt if there would be any wildlife around after her little displays. So a barking dog has its uses. At night I like to keep my dogs in their boxes, but I know some people tie them out. I did tie one dog out on one trip and when I checked her before bed she was surrounded by large black ants that apparently only come out at night. So I prefer to keep them off the ground as you never know what may be around at night. I also found that in some spots I have stopped the www.stockdogs.com.au AWSDM 45
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TLC trainer. It takes a very high level of skill to control, modify THINKING LIKE A CANINE and develop the dogs inherited working ability to its optimum level. THE IMPORTANCE OF PEDIGREES For the rest of us if we have a young dog with a very high level By Ken Sykes of inherited aptitude but only can train it to 80% of its poten- tial we still have a very useful dog. On the other hand, if the There is the old saying “Pieces of paper don’t work dog has only limited natural aptitude and we take it to 100% of stock”. TV personality, author, and dog trainer, Monty that level we still have fairly poor working ability. Hamilton-Wilkes, past president of the R.S.P.C.A and Royal Guide Dogs for the blind, has written several books on I rarely breed a litter and pups have come to me from a variety dogs and is not a believer of inherited instinct. He claims that of sources. I find that in almost every working Border Collie a sheep dog pup will adopt a typical cautious sheep dog ap- pedigree four or five generations back Sevills Bill N7689 will proach to stock not due to the pups inherited instinct but to appear at least once and often more than once. I know noth- their cultural inheritance handed down from their elders. In ing of this dog but apparently, he was well regarded by several effect, he claims that the pup will learn its style of working by breeders. Selective line breeding has proved to be one of the watching its dam and other older dogs in its environment. most effective means of gaining consistency in progeny. What makes a good stock dog? Is it nurture or nature? Ham- ilton- Wilkes approach does not explain why a sheep dog pup A dog that appears once in a pedigree 5 generations back pro- fostered on to a bull terrier cross bitch tried to herd the chooks vides approximately 3% of your dog’s genetic makeup. Don’t while its pig dog litter mates were more interested in diving in be carried away by one or two top dogs some way back in the for the kill. Fortunately, we have the answer based on extensive pedigree. What we need to look for in the pedigree is for at scientific research carried out as long ago as the 1950s in Bar least the first three generations of dogs that work in the style Harbour, Main, USA. And San Rafael, California, Guide Dogs we require, and to have done so to a high degree. It is impor- for the Blind research facility and reinforced in many research tant that all these dogs close up in the pedigree are performing trials since. The Bar Harbour research conducted over 14 years the same type of work, whether yard, paddock, trial, sheep with over 400 pups proved conclusively that aptitudes are or cattle. While this does not guarantee success, it will surely inherited. Natural aptitudes develop through use and prac- put the odds firmly in your favour. If the dog is line bred to tice and may be accelerated through training. In the opposite an outstanding individual your chances are considerably im- manner, an environment may suppress or bury a natural apti- proved. tude so completely that it never becomes apparent. One thing we must keep in mind is that the environment can A word on line breeding and inbreeding. Inbreeding is the never give a dog an ability that it has not inherited. No more breeding together of related individuals. Line breeding occurs than a cow can lay eggs, or a chicken give milk. Environment when one individual appears more often in the pedigree than and appropriate training provides the opportunity for com- any other. For example, the mating of litter mates would be plete fruition of the inherited abilities. The super dogs we inbred but not line bred. Sire over daughter would be line bred see in the paddock or trial arena in the hands of a top stock as the sire appears more often in the pedigree than any other. man may only be a good useful dog in the hand of the average Line bred dogs are by definition inbred. Line breeding while culling heavily for fault has been the method of development of most modern breeds of livestock. It has been used very suc- cessfully in the USA for breeding guide dogs and in Australia in the development of some lines of working dogs. The most common form of line breeding used in working dogs is the mating of half siblings, uncle over niece, or grandsire over granddaughter. The Think Like a Canine Booklet on working dog training is available from [email protected] for $15.00 including postage and handling. Ken Sykes Haig Farm Working Border Collies 214 Beutel Rd., Clifton QLD 4361 PH: 0407 592591 www.stockdogs.com.au AWSDM 49
THE AUSTRALIAN CATTLE DOG Story: Belinda Carter & Hannah Barry Photo’s: Ffire Photography, Karen Edwards and Gwen Shepperson The Australian Cattle Dog (ACD) – that larrikin dog beloved of tradies and despised by postmen from coast to coast – is a truly iconic Australian breed. Commonly known as “heelers” due to their instinc- tual ability to bite low on the heels of cattle to create to do the job they were developed to do. As Scott Lithgow sug- movement , their development began in Austral- gests - when choosing a breeder, look for one who is selecting ia in the 1830s by cattlemen who needed a dog that could for the traits necessary for a good “all-rounder”. handle Australian conditions and was capable of mus- The breed has proved popular overseas and Americans have tering and moving wild cattle. They needed a dog which been working, showing and breeding them since WW2. Reg- could shepherd the bullocks to feed safely near camp, mus- istered ACDs are used alongside collies on large ranches, ter them at daybreak, protect the camp and keep the cat- and the US has drawn up a working standard for the breed tle from wandering off track on their long treks to market. which accurately describes the breeds’ working tendencies. The dogs brought out from England struggled with the cli- The US does have a propensity for docking their tails however, mate, and a tougher dog was needed to control cattle which and this is often attributed to confusion between the Stumpy were much more wild than their English counterparts. Tail Cattle Dogs. Dr Alan McNiven was incredibly passionate Around the 1890s, breeders begun selectively breeding for about not letting the breed in the US go down the path of be- working ability, type and colour, and a dog better suited for ing solely bench dogs, so a pedigree athletic, working type can Australian conditions emerged - a compact blue or red dog still be found. similar in type and build to the dingo but with more sub- Appearance and temperament: stance. The ACD’s prime function is the control and movement of cat- They became Australia’s number 1 cattle working breed, tle in both wide-open and confined areas. To that end, they are the go-to dog for any cattle work. Over time, they became a well-muscled, compact dog capable of both explosive power popular with the pet and show market and this impact- and endurance. Their double coat is perfectly suited to Aus- ed the type of dog being bred – both in looks and work- tralian conditions – the outer coat wards off the elements, and ing ability. As the requirements of endurance were less in a the undercoat insulates the dog. backyard people in town started breeding solely for looks, They are alert, intelligent and courageous dogs. A good ACD and perhaps a crankier type of dog for guarding purposes. will not back down from a confrontation – when working While collies and kelpies (also popular in the pet/show mar- cattle, they will defend themselves if necessary. This does not ket) maintained working registries, and thus a distinct differ- mean however that they go looking for a fight – any undue ence between show lines and working lines, no working regis- aggression is a temperament fault. try was developed for the ACD. There are still many ‘heelers’ They are loyal dogs – typically answering to one master only. out there earning their keep around Australia but the only Their protective instincts mean they are often suspicious or registries for ACDs are found within the Kennel Clubs and standoffish with strangers however this does not translate into many of these dogs have lost the physical and mental abilities aggression if they are bred and socialised correctly. Their nat- ural instinct to “heel” however sometimes translates into nip- 50 AWSDM www.stockdogs.com.au
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