Nature has adapted the small dog like Gus to his environment. There is a thoughtfulness about Gus that surprises me, border collies run first, think later. Gus takes his time, does not take risks, but does not run from challenge either. It has been an education for to see Gus learn to adapt to our pasture and farm life.

He has studied every animal, befriend those that are agreeable, avoided those that are not. He is always aware of what the animals are doing, and what we are doing. He watches Maria and I closely for approval and direction. He is more a dog of the mind than I expected.

Gus will never be a herding dog, nor would I push him in that direction. That work takes long legs, sharp teeth and great stamina. Gus is not a fighter, he is a player, lover and observer. When I was out taking photos, Gus planted himself right in front of the Pole Barn to watch me – he has figured out the camera thing already – and see what happens.

He knows when to come into the pasture and when to leave, he never runs off or considers the wider world. He is more cerebral than I would have thought. He leaves the hard work for Red and Fate, he is always ready to have some fun.