(The following story is dedicated to my brother Rich’s dog Abby who crossed ‘Rainbow Bridge’ last night.)
Animated, adaptable and agile, ‘Abby’ the Australian Shepherd lived for her job, which involved herding livestock and worked as an all-purpose farm and ranch dog. She needed a lot of activity and a sense of purpose to be truly content. ‘Abby’s’ coat was black and tan for the most part with a snubbed tail.
Did You Know?
THE AUSSIE’S POPULARITY BOOMED WITH WESTERN CULTURE AND HORSE-RIDING AFTER WWII AND WAS OFTEN FEATURED IN RODEOS, HORSE SHOWS, MOVIES, AND TV.
Although there are many theories about the origin of the Australian Shepherd, the breed as we know it today developed exclusively in the United States.
Retirement Came Hard
There comes a time in every working dog’s life that they have done all the work they can do and it is time for retirement. Because my brother ‘Rich’ knew how much ‘Abby’ loved being with the cattle, he got creative. ‘Abby’s’ replacement became an ‘All Terrain Four Wheeler’. Whenever Rich worked the cattle, Abby got to ride along. Being with the cattle was the happiest place she liked to be.
Rainbow Bridge Came Calling
The latter years of ‘Abby’s’ life were spent indoors. She had lost her hearing and could no longer see. Last night it was time for her to cross ‘Rainbow Bridge’ where she became restored to health and will wait for my brother ‘Rich’ to meet her again. ‘Rich’ wrapped her body in her favorite blanket and buried her by the shed facing the cattle lot. ‘Abby’ would like that. Rest In Peace sweet ‘Abby’. You will never be forgotten.
One thought on “A Dog With A Purpose”
I enjoyed writing this story about my brother’s dog. I took care of her when a puppy