It's fair to say that Tay was a late bloomer.

Big hearted and with a sweet nature, he appeared to be a rarity among Border collies: content to take it easy.

Tay's owner, Martina Miradoli, is a breed enthusiast and professional dog trainer. Tay joined her family of two humans and four dogs just before the second Covid-19 lockdown in the UK.

Martina tried Tay on various sports, including agility, scent detection (he was good at this) and introduced him to sheep. Despite her efforts to stimulate him, his drive remained low.

Then, Martina and her partner had the chance to take on the tenancy of a busy farm which meant that Tay had to step up.

Martina describes Tay's journey from the sofa to the sheep farm, where his talent has made him indispensable to lambing season - just 15 lambs to go at the time of recording.

Photo credit: Martina Maradoli

For more photos, visit https://shineradio.uk/dogswithjobs

Connected episodes:

• Diva at the English National Sheepdog Trials 2023
• Edie, Max and Joe, the sheep farm workers

Get in touch!

Do you work your dog? Kate would love to hear from you! Sporting dogs, caring dogs, service dogs - the more varied the better. Get in touch on team@shineradio.uk.

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