Dogs Guarding Penguins

Yes, you heard correctly.  Warrnambool is a gorgeous little township on the western end of the Great Ocean Rd in Victoria.  But as well as being famous for whales, cheese, butter and other things, this place now boasts its own special group of Maremma dogs.  These pooches are employed to guard endangered penguins on nearby ‘Middle Island’.

A local farmer who could vouch for the success of this guarding breed minding stock of his own (chickens) suggested it might be a way to help out the penguins which were falling prey to foxes.

The endangered penguin population has now grown to almost 200 in the last 8 years.

If you like a good comedy you can check out the movie ‘Oddball’ which is based on this true story.

Although this gorgeous Retriever (photographed) is not a Maremma, he has heard of them.

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)