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Belue, a Shetland Sheepdog, works on farm & teaches students

 The Sunbelt Ag Expo has honored outstanding farmers from participating Southeastern states for 34 years. Realizing the special role farm dogs play in helping their farmers, this year Georgia Farm Bureau launched its inaugural farm dog contest to honor the four-legged workers who help with farm chores and offer unconditional love.

Belue, a Shetland Sheepdog who lives in Sumter County with his owner, Brinson Brock, was named the 2024 Georgia Farm Bureau Farm Dog of the Year during the Willie B. Withers Sunbelt Expo Luncheon on Oct. 15. Belue was chosen from 151 canine entries by a panel of judges with farm dog knowledge.

As the winner, Belue will be featured on the 2025 spring Georgia Neighbors magazine, and Brock received a $500 gift card.

“This award is not merely about recognizing a dog’s ability to herd or guard; it’s about honoring a steadfast partner in the fields, a loyal friend in the toughest of seasons and a symbol of unwavering dedication on the family farm. The bond between a farmer and their dog is profound, built on trust, mutual respect, and countless hours of shared labor in and out of the fields,” said Georgia Farm Bureau President Tom McCall. “The recipient of this prestigious award embodies the very essence of what it means to be a farm dog—devotion beyond measure, intelligence that aids in daily tasks, and a heart that lives for their next assignment.”

Belue has a blue merle coat, stands 15 inches tall and weighs 24 pounds. Brock, his human, says Belue’s favorite treats are Greenies.

“Belue is a constant and vigilant companion. He works sheep, cattle and poultry. He will chase the occasional unwelcome varmint and is able to sense those who might be beyond his control,” Brock said.

Like many farmers, Belue has an off-farm job. During the school year, Belue attends the middle school agricultural classes that Brock teaches to encourage students’ interest in veterinary science.

“He is a willing participant for grooming, bandaging, and general body condition exams. When students do computerized self-study time, he retreats to his pen and waits patiently for the students to finish,” Brock said. “He rounds up chickens and other small animals in the school garden as well as kids playing games in the outdoor study area. He practices agility to the delight of students and visitors to the Agri-Science program.”

Brock said special needs children interact with Belue daily to find a quick friend.

“People are amazed to learn how farm dogs can work fiercely on the farm but can also help those with disabilities, infirmities or loneliness,” Brock said. “Belue has a calming effect on the students.”

Owners of the four finalist dogs have been notified and will be announced in the 2025 Georgia Neighbors spring issue to be published next March.

Georgia Farm Bureau is known for its love of dogs as Lucky, an Australian Shepherd, has served as the GFB mascot since 2021. To learn more about the contest or to look for information to enter next year’s contest visit www.gfb.org/24-ga-farm-dog .