Lessons From A Guard Dog

This picture is quite similar to one taken last fall in almost the same spot. It's not a coincidence. This is an easy scene to capture. I walk out, sit down on the arena hill, Hank comes over and sits next to me, always keeping an eye on his sheep.



I always feel honored. Just as I'd feel honored to sit next to any of the brave men and women who work to keep our country safe. Every day.



Both so willing to lend a helping hand...or paw. So that we can safely walk out and sit with our sheep in the evening.



"Hey, just doin' my job, ma'am. Now don't feel sad. How do I look upside down?"

"You look silly."

"Good :-)"



"Wait a minute. Something's up over the hill."



"Be right back."



Some Most of the original adult flock have still not accepted Hank as a friend. He comes near them and they run away like scared...sheep. However, I've seen many occasions when they are way out in a field and Hank is between them and the barn and he'll hear or see something and sound an alarm.

It's a different bark. Even I can tell the difference. The sheep listen too and will race towards him to get to the safety of the barn. I'm not sure if this is their idea or his. Does he tell them to get to the barn or just that there is danger and they go where they think they should? Surely they must feel safer knowing he's there.



And he does have several friends out there now - Keebler, Graham, Renny, Marcel, Mia, Sherman, B. Willard.



And the respect of the rest. Sheep of all colors, backgrounds, education, beliefs.

Hank was a necessary addition after our own farm's minute 9-11. We are blessed to have him and every day he hears that he is a good dog. That he's doing a good job.

To all the firefighters, policemen and women, armed forces, everyday folks who were caught in the firestorm and helped where they could, the children growing up without a parent, parents without their child, spouses missing their partner and carrying on the best they can... You are doing a good job. Every day.