Killary Sheep Farm — Local services in County Galway

This was one of those experiences we stumbled upon rather than planned to do, but were so glad we did. The farmers PJ and Tom were both super friendly and full of info about the farm and the dogs. The animals are all clearly well looked after and the location of the farm is incredible, overlooking the fjord as it does! Over the course of about 2 hours we watched a sheep herding demo using the younger, super eager border collie and had the opportunity to ask lots of questions about the training process. It was amazing to watch the dog work, she clearly loved it and listened to every command. Next we had a sheep shearing demo and even got to shear them yourself, although I was terrifying of knocking the sheep or the farmer! Finally it was onto the lamb feeding - definitely the cutest part of the whole thing. I loved how the farmers got everyone involved (even in picking up all the lambs and putting them back in the pen at the end!) so you got a real feel for farm life and didn't just stand there watching. I'd recommend this to anyone who hasn't seen dogs at work before, anyone who hasn't been on a farm and really just anyone who is in the area and wants to do something a little different. Seek...

We discovered this gem of a farm while visiting the Leenane Sheep and Wool Centre this past week. A short drive up the road led us to Tom and his wonderful sheepdog Sylvie. After spend a bit of time chatting with Tom and learning a bit about his farming experience and his training work with his dogs (he has 4 working dogs on the farm) we got an amazing demonstration of Sylvie’s herding abilities, even though at 4 years old she isn’t fully developed as a working dog (Tom says his dogs aren’t really finished until they’re 5 years old). He had her herd the sheep through several small fields and openings in the stone ditches between while we watched from our vantage point on the hillside. He that had her bring the sheep up to a pen beside us, where we got to see how a sheep is sheared; we even got to try a bit ourselves! He was a very friendly and knowledgeable man, and his dogs are amazing. If you are ever in the area I highly recommend you take some time (about and hour to 90 minutes) to stop in and see him. You will come away with a fresh insight into sheep farming in...

My daughter, granddaughter and I recently completed a trip to Ireland which included a trip to this farm. (This is a real working sheep farm, BTW) It was one of the highlights of the trip. I highly recommend it if you are on a driving holiday (I think you would only be able to come by car or on a tour). First, the setting... OMG. We did not expect the gorgeous view. The entire visit is outdoors so be prepared for weather (our day was lovely). The sheep dog demonstration was absolutely fascinating. The owner's love of animals was so apparent. The sheep sheering was also fascinating, but even more intimidating and exciting was an invitation to actually participate! Which we did. The highlight was feeding the lambs. Do not imagine some sedate picture book version of this. You grab a bottle and the lambs come in and will leap upon you. It is hilarious, joyous and fun. BUT... wear things that can get dirty because, you will! Thank you...