And the runners-up are…
Second runner-up
Third runner-up
Imagine: Every morning you rise from sleep in a house erected in 1860 that once served as a hotel for pioneers traveling on the California portion of the Oregon Trail. You accompany the farmer, your loyal companion, in completing the necessary work on the ranch: pushing sheep into box stalls for vaccinating or overseeing the long, unpredictable nights of lamb season. If you’re Megan, a 12-year-old border collie from Etna, this daydream is your reality. “This dog has it all,” says owner Melanie Fowle-Nelson. Fowle-Nelson developed a deep bond with Megan during four years when she and her dog moved the cattle and sheep alone. Megan is affectionate and soaks up pets as much as she gobbles water spewing from water guns in the summer. This farm dog loves to work, gently herding chickens, cattle, ewes and lambs. But Fowle-Nelson says she is loyal, most of all. “Each of us appreciates her company on those cold, snowy, rainy nights.” Megan, border collie Melanie Fowle-Nelson, Siskiyou County Farm Bureau
Like contest winners Waylon and Willie, Jackson redefines the idea of a “farm dog.” The 10-year-old Australian shepherd works at Sunny Hills High School Farm, a staple of the agriculture and FFA program at Sunny Hills High School in Fullerton. In this role, Jackson works tirelessly to brighten the days of the 180 students enrolled in agriculture classes. Jackson interacts with students both in and out of the classroom, contributing to a therapeutic and supportive community environment. When it’s time for a break from the books, Jackson can be found chasing lambs, goats, steers and pigs or spending time with his best friend, Coco the golden retriever. As a farmer enriches his community, Jackson enriches the lives of his students, says owner Brian Kim of La Habra. “Jackson provides students every day with a moment of positive energy that highly affects their mood and anxiety. His true farm dog responsibilities are to the students in agriculture education.” Jackson, Australian shepherd Brian Kim, Orange County Farm Bureau
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