Herding Clinic Reminder

Anyone who is interested in having a taste of herding is welcome to come to the clinic tomorrow at Penna. Kerry Webb has kindly facilitated the clinic and mowed the A Course for Ducks 9.00am for Intermediate A and B Ducks, 10.30am Intermediate A and B Sheep Introduction to Herding (Sheep and / or Ducks) starts at 12.30am. WARNING THIS CAN BE ADDICTIVE BYO refreshments & comb to remove grass seeds from dogs afterwards. It's been such a bad season for grass seeds here in Tasmania, Tull has spent hours at our vets removing them from ears, noses, toes and tummies she has resorted to practicing mostly on ducks instead of sending us out in the paddocks. Never thought I would hear her say that the drought had certain advantages but we did have a few seasons without so many grass seeds. Those who want to practice herding without the risk of seeds can have some fun with http://www.shaunthesheep.com/games/onedog

Sarasota Shooglenifty

Let me introduce my grandson Shaun. What a little ripper he is. Like so many good border collies he is a tri-colour (like me). His dad is Zeal who is a son of my half sister Freya and his mum is Sybil who is my daughter from Minke which means Shaun represents some of the best herding lines in Tasmania. Shaun is already demonstrating potential, he is confident and observant. He doesn't rush in chasing stock but maintains their respect by keeping off yet holding his ground, not afraid to get his feet wet either! Shaun's parentage was determined by the use of genetic testing. Both Freya and I carry a lethal autosomal recessive gene for Neurological Ceroid Lipofucinosis which we inherited from our mother. Dr Alan Wilton of the UniNSW identified the gene and developed a DNA test so that we can be bred to clear partners and our natural working ability is not lost to the breed. Both Shaun's parents are clear for NCL, TNS and CEA/CH so he is clear by parentage. Shaun has a very adaptable temperament, he started the New Year by visiting patients in the Royal Hobart Hospital ~ he hopes one day to become a Delta Dog like his half sister Ms Swift.