Young kelpies and collies get the limelight, but these farmers prize their old working dogs
Farmers in rural Australia are highlighting the enduring value of elderly working dogs that continue to assist with livestock despite their age. These dogs are celebrated for their experience and deep bond with their owners, even as they slow down.
Why it matters
It provides a human-interest perspective on agricultural traditions and the role of working animals in rural communities.
Kingsley Vaux says his faithful 15-year-old sheepdog Cassie is "devoted". ( ABC Great Southern: Mark Bennett )
Link copied Share Share article Kingsley Vaux's family has been farming at Ongerup, about 400 kilometres south-east of Perth, for more than a century.
By their side are about eight generations of working dogs, with 15-year-old Cassie the last in the line.
"They're normally gone at 10 or 12, but she still seems reasonably healthy although she's gone deaf so we're down to signals," Mr Vaux said.
"It's a bit of a fight to get her to change direction or anything, but she's teaching the young ones a little bit too, so it's still a joy to be working with her."
The border collie-huntaway cross may be deaf and arthritic, but her love for sheep work remains strong.
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