This year's Agribition International Stock Dog Trials marked Bob's final competition before his well-earned retirement, evoking an emotional response from his handler, Peter. As a four-time champion of the Stock Dog Event at Agribition in 2014, 2021, 2022, and 2023, Bob leaves behind an impressive legacy, inspiring future generations of stock dog enthusiasts.
A total of 45 dogs participated in this year's Agribition Stock Dog Competition. However, it was Bob, a 12-year-old cattle dog from Outlook, Saskatchewan, who secured the championship for the fourth time. Bob is owned and trained by experienced cowboy and well-known trainer Peter Gonnet.
Bob spent his life working in the community pasture with Gonnet. His exceptional skills and strong work ethic earned him a special place in Gonnet 's heart. Bob's journey was far from straightforward. Gonnet sold him to someone in California as a puppy, but Bob would often escape and herd neighbourhood cattle. He was eventually sent back to Gonnet to work with, who decided to repurchase him. At the age of 5, Bob had a serious accident while working, but he still returned to work and loved it even more. Throughout his career, Bob fathered several hundred puppies.
Jack Regier, a respected figure in the world of stock dog trials, judged Bob's final competition at Agribition. Regier described Bob as a "one-of-a-kind" dog, praising his presence and confidence in effortlessly guiding the sheep. Despite the sheep's limited exposure to dogs before the show, the event ran smoothly. Driving the sheep required a special kind of dog that could maintain control without hesitation.
Spectators of the event described Bob's winning run as picture-perfect, with the sheep responding flawlessly to his commands. Gonnet expressed how smoothly the run went for Bob, saying, "He just had a really good time."
The Agribition International Stock Dog Trials and Cattle Dog Competition showcase the impressive abilities of stock dogs and their handlers. The objective is to guide the dog and cattle or sheep through a pre-set course within five minutes, demonstrating the dog's skill in controlling and driving livestock.
Marcel Vermette, a competitor in the Agribition Cattle Dog Competition, shared that Agribition is a favourite annual event, where handlers can showcase the invaluable role that working dogs play on ranches. Spectators can experience the intelligence and work ethic of these dogs firsthand, emphasizing their importance in ranching operations. He explained, "These guys just work their hearts out for you."
As a four time Champion at Agribition, Bob's last appearance marked the end of an era. This dog's journey perfectly showcases the dedication and heart of these dogs and the bond they share with their handlers in the world of ranching.
