Blue Heelers or Australian Cattle Dogs have a long tradition as hard working, herding dogs. Full of bounce they are bred to chase and control farm animals – barking and growling, nipping at the heels of terrified sheep or cattle – these animals are born to rule.

Dogs In Agricultural College

As a student at an agricultural college, working dogs practicing their craft were a common occurrence. Having many cattle and sheep, farm workers and instructors often brought their dogs along when supervising students on farm-work.

Having little experience with farm animals it was enjoyable just watching these dogs go through their skilful routines. Well trained, they knew exactly how to please their masters responding instantly to calls and whistles.

An Unfortunate Dog

A bad day for a working dog will however always remain in my mind. No doubt the bullied and harassed sheep would also have been pleased to witness this event – if only they had stopped running.

This sunny day a cattle dog, pleased that he had completed his tasks, decided it was a good time to mark out some territory. With a quick flick-up of a hind leg he expertly directed a spray at the base of the nearest tree, turned for a quick sniff to check his work then headed for the next marker. Once again he performed with aplomb – life was good.

An Instant Acrobat

Making a bee-line to an odd looking post he failed to look closely, confidently repeating his routine, but things went badly astray. This time a stream of highly conductive dog essence hit a live electric fence.

With many thousands of volts instantly passing through his body via a most sensitive part, this dog became an instant acrobat. What looked like three complete summersaults were perfectly executed. Landing on his feet, ears down and tail between his legs, he ran the fastest hundred metres in dog history, soon disappearing from sight.

Fence Posts Were Never The Same

Electric fences, designed to keep animals out of certain areas give a painful jolt, but physical effects are not serious. Bred from hardy outback stock, our victim would have quickly recovered, now doubt with psychological scars.

One sure thing, fence posts would never be the same for this working dog!