Flying Mule Farm

We use border collies extensively in our livestock operation!  Our dogs, Mo and Taff, are partners in our efforts to manage our sheep, goats and cattle efficiently and humanely.  We're strong proponents of the use of quality stock dogs.

As part of our commitment to using dogs effectively, we're working with our friend Ellen Skillings to improve our skills as dog handlers.  Ellen trains and breeds border collies in Tulelake, CA.  Flying Mule Farm is hosting lessons and mini-clinics with Ellen once a month during the winter - we invite you to join us!

Our Dogs...

Our border collies, Taff and Mo, are essential partners in our livestock operations.  Here's more about them!

Taff: Taff came to us from Caroline Reicherd via our friend Ellen Skillings.  Originally from Canada, Taff is eight years old.  He's Dan's everyday working dog - he excells in working sheep and goats and is learning to work cattle.  When he's not working, Taff takes lots of naps!

Mo: Mo also comes to us from Ellen Skillings - he's a son of her dog, Emer.  Not quite two years old, Mo combines a wonderful personality with incredible talent.  Lara will start trialling Mo this winter!

Ernie: Ernie is a half brother to Mo.  He was born to Ellen's Emer in December 2009 and has been with us since early February.  He'll eventually work with Dan and Taff and may also be a trial propsect.  For now, his hobbies include chewing, running and cuddling! 

Livestock Guardian Dogs: We use dogs to protect our animals from predators, too.  Buck, Boise, Duke and Reno make up our Livestock Security Team.  They live with our sheep and goats around the clock to protect them from other dogs, coyotes, mountain lions and other predators. 

For more information about livestock guardian dogs, go to http://www.nal.usda.gov/awic/companimals/guarddogs/guarddogs.htm

Stock Dog Clinics

Trainer Ellen Skillings offers monthly lessons at Flying Mule Farm.  Contact us for more information!