On Jan.30,2010 I went to the Red Bluff Bull Sale and watched the stock dog competition. The dogs were auctioned off afterwards. The prices rocked on up past 10,000 bucks on several dogs. None of the dogs went for a price under 2000 dollars.
These were trained stock dogs, highly valued for their ability to help manage livestock. They remind us of a time when all dogs were bred for a certain job and hence came into existance. These dogs are not pampered pets but working dogs. No one will judge them for their coat color or ear set, but how good they can accomplish a job. They are young dogs so they will have many years with their new partners. They are doing the job they love. More power to them.
One dog was donated by a top breeder, trained by a top trainer who donated his time, and sold with the proceeds going to The Klamath Basin water rights group to help pay legal fees. Water being the life blood of the farmers and ranchers. The dog was auctioned off three times and each time donated back to raise more money. Finally he gavel came down for the last time and the highest bidder took him home.
Judy, i read both posts and i was so touched.. not only with the ability of the dogs but of the giving of the humans! How WONDERFUL to see these great dogs work at a job that they were bred for and how super wonderful to have been there to see for your self that those human beings at the auction have so much compassion and goodness in them to 1. give to a great cause that moves them and 2. to have given two super cattle driving dogs up for auction.
ReplyDeleteIt is a darn shame that there are not more auctions and such trials that are highligted and addvertised so that more folks can go to see such things and feel the power of KINDNESS, admiration and LOVE... thank you for sharing this with us... Lois Schwarz (Schwarz Kennels, White City, Oregon)