Story by Linda DuBois
Photos by Caitlin Fillmore
Herding, guarding, comforting, securing. The title of “working dog” on the farm or ranch expands to fit the needs of the operation—much like the reality of being a farmer.
And the winners of California Farm Bureau’s fourth annual Farm Dog of the Year Contest truly embody the spectrum of work these dogs complete every day on their farms and ranches. With support from Nationwide, the contest asked Farm Bureau members to submit photos and a brief story about their beloved canine. The Grand Prize winner earned $1,000, with the first, second and third runners-up receiving $500, $250 and $100, respectively.
Loyal, diligent, affectionate and joyful, the dogs inspired a terrific story for each contestant to tell. The following is the story of the Grand Prize winners: a pair of mischievous brothers whose serendipitous second chance revealed their true family and purpose.
Story by Linda DuBois Photos by Henry Barrios
They greet their human companions with wagging tails and eager-to-please enthusiasm as they provide indispensable assistance around farms and ranches. Then, when the workday is done, they can’t wait to play or just cuddle on the couch.
Such are the attributes of farm dogs—and the winners of the California Farm Bureau’s third annual Farm Dog Contest are among the best of them.
The following is the story of the Grand Prize winner: Rip, a goat herder from Kern County.