We are also happy to share our lives with a number of other animals on our homestead.

Our livestock guardian, Sovalye, an Anatolian shepherd lets us know when coyotes or raccoons are threatening our poultry, sheep or goats. After unsuccessfully trying a few different breeds of farm dogs, we did a great deal of research and decided to get an Anatolian because they have been largely ignored by the American public as pets. They are still used primarily as livestock guardians, and many dogs in this country are only a few generations removed from dogs who are still living in Turkey guarding sheep over thousands of acres.

Porter joined us in spring 2007 as a small puppy. He is an English shepherd - and he knows it! If he isn't practicing herding, then it's because he's finally tuckered himself out... which doesn't happen often.

We also have one retired horse living on our homestead. Merlot is here in early retirement because he suffers from EPM and arthritis and cannot be ridden. Buddy (to the left) was with us since the beginning, and enjoyed five years with us and the countryside before passing away at age 30.

A variety of domesticated ducks grace our pond, as well as American buff geese.