CARBONDALE — Anyone who thinks their dog is smart because it can roll over and play dead should have seen the action at the Strang Ranch outside of Carbondale this weekend.
There, about 60 sheepdogs and their handlers put on a display of stamina, skill, communication and control.
The ranch is hosting sheepdog trials that are a qualifier for next year’s national finals in Virginia. The event, which organizer Bridget Strang said she hopes to repeat next year, is a test run for 2011. That year, the ranch will host the national finals for the U.S. Border Collie Handlers Association — an event that will draw top sheepdog competitors from across the country.
About 40 dogs competed Friday and Saturday in the open and open ranch classes. Action today is set to feature about 20 young dogs and beginning handlers.
Janet Urquhart, Aspen Times
