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Dogs help WA farmers operate their machinery

Tom ZaunmayrCountryman
Kace keeps a very watchful eye.
Camera IconKace keeps a very watchful eye. Credit: Holly Taylor.

WA is home to the best farmers in the country and we believe we have uncovered the secret to why they are so productive.

The answer is dogs boldly going out on a limb to help their humans operate farm machinery.

Dogs like Taser will make sure you are fit to operate equipment, including running through a full OHS checklist.

Taser ensures operators have the right qualifications before entering.
Camera IconTaser ensures operators have the right qualifications before entering. Credit: Curtley Norwood.

They keep a watchful eye while training you in the basics of tractor driving.

Kace keeps a very watchful eye.
Camera IconKace keeps a very watchful eye. Credit: Holly Taylor.
Mac surveying operations on his farm.
Camera IconMac surveying operations on his farm. Credit: Robyn Shulz.

Once they are confident in your ability, dogs will turn their attention to the road ahead, making sure you plot the right course through the paddock.

Bess spotting rocks while seeding.
Camera IconBess spotting rocks while seeding. Credit: Lynette Frick.
Always alert.
Camera IconAlways alert. Credit: Brad Wheeler.

Eventually doggo will be ready to teach you advanced skills, such as how to feed their cattle.

Lexi providing a helping hand to feed her cattle.
Camera IconLexi providing a helping hand to feed her cattle. Credit: Deb Butler.

Or perhaps they will sit in the cab and teach you how to use the airseeder.

Farm boss Syd making sure the humans are doing a good job.
Camera IconFarm boss Syd making sure the humans are doing a good job. Credit: Mitch Clarke.

Once you have mastered those skills, it is time for dog to teach the next generation.

This bus is full, please wait for the next one.
Camera IconThis bus is full, please wait for the next one. Credit: Elle Atwell.

And take a well deserved nap in the most convenient location.

A very helpful RJ sleeping by the pedals.
Camera IconA very helpful RJ sleeping by the pedals. Credit: Sam Burgess.
Jimmy taking a well-earned rest.
Camera IconJimmy taking a well-earned rest. Credit: Monica Gardiner.

Driving tractors is not the only skill we can learn from our best mates. We are developing a full investigative series on this matter.

So far we have discovered dogs are great at finding ways to cool off.

Doggos also know how to enjoy the beach.

Thank you for listening to our TedTalk.

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