By Adelia Ladson
adelia.ladson@gaflnews.com

MOULTRIE – New to the Willie B. Withers Sunbelt Ag Luncheon, this year, was the announcement of the 2024 Georgia Farm Bureau Farm Dog of the Year — Belue, a Shetland sheepdog from Americus.

The sheepdog was chosen from 151 canine entries by a panel of judges knowledgable about farm dogs.

“Today, we just want to celebrate not only our two-legged farmers but their four-legged companions that work tirelessly every day with them,” said Georgia Farm Bureau President Tom McCall. “It’s my honor to present to you the very first, and hopefully annual, Farm Dog of the Year for Georgia.”

He thanked Sunbelt Expo Executive Director Chip Blalock for letting Georgia Farm Bureau present the award at the luncheon. He went on to say that the Bureau’s mascot, Lucky, was a real, live Australian shepherd farm dog.

“This award is not merely about recognizing a dog’s ability to herd or guard; it’s about honoring a steadfast partner in the fields, a loyal friend in the toughest of seasons and a symbol of unwavering dedication on the family farm,” he said.

McCall also said that they appreciate all of the dogs across the state that work on the farm because they are essential members of families and farm operations.

“And whether the dog is wet or muddy or just had a bath and he jumps up in your truck seat, he is always happier to see you than your banker when you walk in and pay off your crop loan,” he said, drawing laughter from the audience.

He then introduced Belue and his “companion,” Brinson Brock, who was presented with a $500 gift card, while Belue had already received his medal, which he was wearing.

McCall said that Belue was Brock’s constant companion and worked cattle, sheep and chickens on the farm.

“But I think what set Belue apart, for the judges, is the fact of all the volunteer work he does and the countless hours he spends advocating for agriculture and helping students learn where their food, their clothing and their shelter comes from,” he said.

He also added that the sheepdog had visited more than 1,500 elementary school students this year and had also encouraged middle schoolers to look toward a vet tech degree, volunteering to let them practice putting bandages on him.

“On behalf of Georgia Farm Bureau, I’m proud to present this award to Belue for not only being a real farm dog but also an ‘Ag in the Classroom’ teacher,” McCall said. “Thank you, Mr. Brinson and Belue, for what y’all do for agriculture.”

He said that he looked forward to next year and hoped that there were just as many applications for the Farm Dog of the Year Award.

Individuals interested in entering next year’s contest, may visit the website at www.gfb.org.