Meet Rooster, Georgia Farm Bureau’s 2025 Farm Dog of the Year

Rooster is a full-time farmhand, right-hand man on Shawn Raff’s cattle and dairy operation in Eatonton, Georgia.

EATONTON, Ga. (Farm Monitor) — Before the sun rises, before the gates open and the work begins, one small shadow is already by his side. His name is Rooster, and he is not just a dog—he is a full-time farmhand, right-hand man, and winner of the 2025 Georgia Farm Bureau Farm Dog of the Year.

On Shawn Raff’s cattle and dairy operation in Eatonton, Georgia, Rooster is there for every spray, every roundup, and every stubborn cow. Whether it is moving 300 head on his own or gently guiding dairy cattle through the barn, Rooster does it all—instinctively, precisely, and with a heart as big as Texas.

In this powerful story of loyalty and labor, Rooster proves that the best farmhands do not need to walk on two legs to make a lasting impact on an operation. Watch as we follow this remarkable border collie through daily life on the farm, his unshakable bond with Shawn, and the quiet, unseen work that earned him statewide recognition.

Related Stories
Kansas row crop farmer Brad Keeler joins us to discuss drought conditions, planting decisions, input costs, and overall farmer sentiment in his region.
Donald Chase of Chase Farms joined us to discuss drought conditions, planting progress, input costs, and the outlook for Georgia agriculture.
Tasting events in Ghana highlight potential for new export markets
For Chrystal Castelloe, farming is more than her job. It is a sense of freedom. The North Carolina Farm Bureau takes us to Castelloe Farms and Sale Barn Farm to learn her story.
South Texas producers remain on alert as screwworm concerns grow; sterile fly efforts underway to prevent spread.
High prices alone may not drive herd expansion.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Roger McEowen breaks down the EPA’s updated dicamba regulations and shares what farmers need to do to remain compliant under the new rules this growing season.
Jarrod Hardke with the University of Arkansas break down extreme drought conditions, shifting planting decisions, and the impact of rising input costs on Arkansas agriculture this season.
Oklahoma livestock economist Dr. Derrell Peel helps us break down the April Cattle-on-Feed report and what it signals for herd rebuilding, supplies and prices moving forward.
Tariff refunds are underway, potentially returning billions to importers, as agriculture groups push for a larger role in trade policy and investigations.
Patrick De Haan with GasBuddy joined us to discuss diesel price volatility and what farmers can expect as geopolitical tensions continue to impact energy markets.
Farm programs remain small but politically easier to expand.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Twisted Skillet brings a straightforward, hands-on approach to kitchen television, rooted in food and fire. Hosted by Texas chef Sean Koehler, the series explores open-fire outdoor cooking techniques, regional ingredients, and the people who raise, prepare, and inspire the food found across America.
Enjoy traditional country music from modern-day troubadours The Malpass Brothers. Each episode stars the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass along with a featured celebrity guest– and loads of clever humor.
Brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms, join dynamic bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests. Loads of laughs, your favorite guests galore, and lots of good times are guaranteed. Don’t miss all the fun!
Join popular polka performer Mollie Busta as she hosts the weekly “Mollie B Polka Party” on RFD Network! The one-hour program features the nation’s top polka bands and a wide variety of ethnic styles, recorded on location at music festivals across the country.
The affable and unassuming international singing star Daniel O’Donnell is one of Ireland’s best known performers – from Australia to Alaska.