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A tricolor Australian Shepherd looks out from a barn doorway beside a litter of kittens sitting in the straw. 14 / 34

An Aussie Stood Guard at the Barn Door While the Kittens Peeked Out

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A black tricolor Australian Shepherd leans toward the camera from the side of a weathered barn doorway, his amber and brown face calm. Inside, in the straw, sits a cluster of tiny kittens, ginger, gray, black and white, peering out from the shadows with wide eyes. Hay bales and wooden beams fill the barn behind them, and sunlight strikes the straw. Golden dust floats in the shaft of light beside them.

We might call the Aussie Rusty. As a herding breed, he looks right at home keeping everyone together, and the kittens seem to be waiting for his signal before they come out. He seems both proud and relaxed.

Australian Shepherds are intelligent, energetic working dogs that were bred to herd livestock. They are loyal and need plenty of exercise and activity, and some will try to herd children or other pets by nipping or circling. Early training helps. A barn is a good place for cats, but keep an eye out for hazards like machinery, rodent bait and sharp tools. Kittens need clean bedding, fresh water and a safe space to hide, and your vet can recommend vaccines and parasite prevention for animals living in a barn. Check that the barn is free of drafts, and provide a warm, dry corner for the kittens to sleep.

Rusty and the kittens look ready to step out into the day together. It is a peaceful moment before the day begins.

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