Livestock
TARANAKI/MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES
Loyal companions and valued workmates
OctOber 2013
21
Gear the way you’d design it.
by Andy Bryenton
Dog Training Products
The town of Hunterville, in the foothills of the North Island’s Central Plateau, is known for its rugged scenery, its isolation — and the monument which graces its main street. It’s not a bronze statue of one of the town’s founding fathers, or a local lad risen to greatness, however. It’s a statue of the Kiwi farmer’s best friend — the Huntaway farm dog. There are estimated to be over 200,000 working dogs in New Zealand, making it possible since pioneering times for farmers to run large herds across our uniquely challenging terrain. Dogs such as the Huntaway, the Blue Heeler (imported from Australia, but more than welcome here) and the iconic Border Collie (immortalised by comic artist Murray Ball) have helped shape rural New Zealand, in much the same way that dogs in general have helped shape the world. Archaeologists recently discovered the partial skeleton of a dog, buried in a cave in northern Iraq which dates back to 10,000 BC. This was no wolf — tests prove that this animal was bred to possess a bigger brain, a shorter, wider jaw and smaller fangs — all traits of a farmer’s dog. It’s no coincidence that at this time, human beings made the change from
KEEP YOUR WORKING DOGS ON THE JOB
NEW MODELS
• Model SD-1825 – 1.6kms range (1 mile). Up to 6 • Model SD-800 rechargeable – 800metre range. waterproof • Tone and Vibration options. collar units and • 24 levels of correction. remote units. • 3 year warranty.
GREAT VALUE
SD-1825 with 1 collar $640.00 SD-800 with 1 collar $470.00 Extra collars $245.00 Prices include GST Sales@innotek.co.nz For a free brochure call
0800 872 546
• Anti-bark training collars • Containment systems
www.innotek.co.nz or Ph 0274 935 444
Photo courtesy of Kathy Macdonald
hunting and gathering to farming crops and raising livestock. Without the dog to help, we may have never put down our bows and spears in favour of the plough. Kiwi farmers take pride in the condition and training of their dogs, as evidenced by the continuing popularity of sheep trials at A & P shows across the nation. A good working team of dogs
is still unsurpassed at mustering in hilly country, and despite the advancement of technology, it looks like the winning team of a farmer and his ‘best mates’ is here to stay.
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Five St r KennelS & runS Small, Medium, Large Singles & Multiple Units
ARB is Australasia’s largest 4x4 Equipment Manufacturer. People rely on us because we’ve earned our stripes – ARB has been in business for more than 30 years, and our products have been tested and proven in the toughest conditions on earth. To cater for the diverse needs of 4WDers everywhere we offer a massive range of equipment that will improve your vehicles capabilities in any environment. Business or Pleasure, on road or off, if you want more from your 4WD we will make it happen – ARB is your one stop 4x4 Accessory Shop. Our Range Includes: • Bullbars • Winches • Side Protection Bars and Steps • Rear Protection Bars • Underbody Protection
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• Air Locker Locking differentials & Air Compressors • Recovery Equipment • Old Man Emu Suspension
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Ph: 0800 272 494 • Ph: (06) 359 0100 693 Tremaine Ave, PO Box 1493 PALMERSTON NORTH Email: parts@autokraft.co.nz Website: www.arb4x4.co.nz
Plus walk in runs now available! Keep your dogs warm and dry
WanganUi EntErpriSES 41 London St, Wanganui
06 343 7053
www.fivestar.org.nz