Gill Update

Big Dog is working and playing- with a little help from PawOpedic out of Issiquah, WA. Above, out Kangal moves with his sheep back to the barn- on leash here because we’re between fenced pastures in the wildlife corridor along our creek. Livestock can move through, but not be left to wander into the forest grazing. They catch a quick bite of grass along the road as we transhumance. What a world it would be indeed if there were no gates or fencing- we could walk like this for miles- but no need with enough well managed space within our bounds for now. Gill does not mind, as long as he gets to patrol, which, once back inside the fence, he can. The guardian of our farm is physically fit, though requiring a brace and over-site in his rounds. The routine now involves more leash time to make sure his weaker leg has enough warmup time before Mr. large and in charge prances off to check the fence lines.

While the ewes and lambs rest in lush pasture, Gill keeps up the pace to make sure all the perimeter markings are up to date with scent communication. Fresh lines keep visiting predators aware that this territory is well maintained by a resident farm friend, who will happily give a bark reminder that the animals within are not available for consumption at this time. Our only predation last year happened when I was away, and a helpful farm sitter was taking Gill in the barn during the day, and away from his post with the geese. There is sometimes a great misconception that LGDs (Livestock Guardian Dogs) are like pet dogs. They are not. LGDs have extremely thick winter coats to keep them very comfortable outside in most temperatures. Gill’s Kangal roots are from the Anatolian Mountains of Central Turkey. If I brought him inside my winter heated home (68F), he would be miserably hot and uncomfortable. Also, he would be away from his favorite, and most helpful job- night watchman.

Kangals love night watch- that’s why you’ll see them sleeping a lot during the day, they guard best in the dark, when predators are much more active. This does not mean they are unaware during the day- Gill alerts at anything out of the ordinary- not the deer who come through by the creek a few times a day, but at the bear lumbering through, who produces a distinct sound, smell, and energy that Gill’s 5,000 year development as a guardian animal protecting flocks against wolf and bear. He is not phased by construction work going on next door, or people walking past in daylight having a conversation. But he would bark if people walk by at night. These dogs know intent, and nothing gets past them. Once in a while I have to check myself with, what I perceive as a normal action- walking into Gills area with a shovel to clean- which he sees as me coming at him with a weapon. It only happened once, and his reaction was to tuck his head and tail and turn away from me, slinking off behind his chalet. I froze in that moment, horrified at my own naivete.

Gill came to Leafhopper as a rescue 3 years after being born in Turkey, and found on the streets of Istanbul. He was well socialized and good on leash, with the obedience expected of his breed- aloof, but well aware, and patient. He warmed to the sheep immediately, and took on the job as flock guardian willingly. His appreciation of daily rhythms- including guarding, making the rounds, scent marking, and smelling the news, Gill settles into a bone chew, nap, or lazy lean against his chalet. He’s tethered there a bit, but it’s nearest the barn and at his favorite watch spot in that pasture. The Chalet offers full shelter and luxury comfort both inside and out, and Gill has put in a few custom holes to lay in to keep his core warm or cool, depending on the time of year. His other big asset for outdoor life is his wardrobe, which is more well stocked than any manufacturer could supply.

Right now, Gill is shedding his second coat. His first came out in March, before it was even above freezing- and he was so relived when I brushed him out. The second coat takes more time, and drops a lot more hair. I’ll keep brushing through the next few weeks, and thankfully, the weather has stayed below 80, so he’s not uncomfortable. Mind you it’s May, and because of climate change, we’ve had more and more April/May 80s days, but this year, cooler temps prevail. I brush Gill out in places I like his scent to be strong- like the gates of pastures, and around the barn. I’ll even take gathered hair to the chicken coop, and spread it around. That’s a scent guard. A lot of his shed will end up in bird nests too, and what stays on the ground will add calcium to the soil as it breaks down.

Gill is also very devoted to his flock. Taking him away from his job and his pack stresses the guy a bit, and since his whole world is security, he will take on said task with gusto where ever he’s established, so the truck is his when he’s riding in it to the vet- his only trip off site. Now, he was well socialized as a puppy to take in and accept change and newness with guided support, but Gill is at his most relaxed and happy near the barn with his flock. That job and stable surroundings, with good training; creates the dog’s best life and role on the farm. He’s a working breed through and through, and has the great temperament with people that Kangal’s are celebrated for. This dog remains a crucial part of our operations, as a respected co-worker and friend. With his loyal support and kind nature, both the animals he protects, and the wildlife he warns off, remain safe. Thank you Gilly-Bean!