The transformation of Tay: from lockdown puppy to sheepdog star

When the time came to step up, much loved pet collie Tay abandoned the sofa for the sheep farm, where his herding talent has made him indispensable to lambing season on the farm.   

Owner and professional trainer Martina Miradoli 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 he has come into his own at last - just 15 lambs to go at the time of recording.   

Find Martina and Tay on Instagram at @martina_bordercollie_geek Check out Martina's wonderful and aptly named podcast, The Border Collie Geek Podcast.

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 [email protected].

© & ℗ Kate Fairweather, 2025

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Celebrate the frontline workers of the canine world.

Kate Fairweather comes face to face with a diverse cast of working dogs, perfectly equipped with the instincts, intelligence and training to handle everything their jobs throw at them.

Humans and dogs have worked together for centuries - and still do today in our communities.

Some work with handlers, drawing on their natural hunting, herding, or guarding instincts, or an exceptional sense of smell. Others perform caring roles, providing companionship and support to humans.

Podcast of the Year at the Community Radio Awards 2022.

Produced by volunteers at Petersfield's Shine Radio. Contact Kate at [email protected] or call 01730 555 500.

• No. of episodes: 80
• Latest episode: 2025-05-01
• Kids & Family Pets & Animals

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