Sheepdog Trials at Caitins
FACILITIES:
Experience traditional sheepdog trials at Caitins. Popular among families for demonstrations of skilled sheepdogs herding sheep. Enjoy a unique insight into rural life. Local farmer Tom O Sullivan will introduce you to his sheep dogs. You will be able to see the flock of sheep on the mountain behind Tom.
Tom then gives a fascinating demonstration of how a sheep dog is used to bring in the sheep on real farms. Responding to Tom’s whistled commands, the dogs guide the sheep downwards. Miraculously, by the end of the demonstration all the sheep are calmly gathered in a pen beside you.
Tom has trained Border Collies in the art of sheep herding, for over 15 years and his amazing skills are on show here with his dogs responding to his every command. Tom always has four dogs trained and two learning at all times. Visitors can watch demonstrations of sheep dogs rounding up sheep.
A lively question-and-answer session follows. The sheep dogs are the real stars of the show. They obviously love their work and listen in to Tom, panting happily after another successful demonstration. The flock includes a number of rare breeds and Tom will answer any questions you have about them. There’s usually at least one person asking whether they’re for sale. Answer: no!
The show loops continuously until midday so you can arrive any time between 9:30 am and 12 noon from April to September.
