The recent “turf war” between Trancas Riders & Ropers and Drummond Ranch is an unfortunate one. I speak as one of approximately 25 sheepherding students who have been displaced as a result of the Parks and Recreation Department’s decision to disallow herding in the Equestrian Park arena. It is not my intention here to re-ignite the fire under the dispute. My motives are strictly selfish. I just want to get herding again with my Australian Shepherd.
There are proposed venues on the table, all requiring permission and possibly permits for fencing. That could take months or more, denying us valuable training time. We have all worked so hard at this and were finally experiencing true success. Some of our dogs were ready to enter the beginner level trial competition.
I petition the community’s collective spirit to be a part of the solution. We need an interim, temporary location to continue our Thursday afternoon and Sunday classes. If there’s someone out there with a small arena, corral or large pen (40′-60′) who would allow us to work on a trial basis, maybe just for a month, please call me at 456-8434. We could work out a small fee or possibly a trade for training your herding dog. We would tailor our hours to meet your needs.
I have been sheepherding with my rescue, Nellie, for three years. What I love most is learning something with my dog. Within one run, we both experience triumph as well as disappointing mistakes that make us better next time. Our bond has become stronger as we are in this together. I miss the light in her eyes when she is herding.
Lynn Griffin