The Aussie Finally Found a Flock Small Enough to Share a Hammock With
On the porch, a woven rope hammock holds two sleepers. The blue merle Australian Shepherd lies with his speckled face stretched out over the edge, and a small white lamb is curled up against his side with her head resting on her hooves. A string light glows from the doorway as evening comes in, and the yard behind them is full of garden bits and flowerpots. It looks like a perfect summer night.
Australian Shepherds were bred to herd livestock, so a lamb is exactly the kind of animal that triggers their instincts. Most are gentle and watchful, but some can try to herd by nipping or chasing, so supervision is important. Positive training and plenty of exercise help keep their minds busy. A lamb needs steady, calm handling, since young animals are fragile. Hammocks are a bit risky for pets, because they can tip or tangle, so keep them low and watch carefully. Make sure any porch light cords are out of chewing range. Many farm dogs enjoy being near the animals they look after, and that closeness can become a warm bond. If you want to teach a dog calm behavior around livestock, a trainer can help. Slow, calm introductions and clear rules from the start will help both animals feel safe.
The hammock rocks softly, and the lamb sleeps through it. The Aussie, for once, has no herding to do.
