Protecting Farm & Family: Meet Aussie, the 2024 California Farm Dog of the Year!

The California Farm Bureau introduces us to Aussie, its 2024 Farm Dog of the Year! Aussie’s proved nothing—not even the loss of a limb—can stop her from protecting her farm and family.

Meet Aussie, a remarkable Australian shepherd and beloved ranch dog of the Erickson Family from Madera, California.

From catching gophers to keeping predators at bay, this devoted nine-year-old dog is integral to the Erickson family’s 2,500-acre cattle operation.

“She is wholeheartedly devoted to protecting the farm, and nothing stops her,” says Kaydence Erickson, who credits Aussie with helping her chicken breeding business thrive.

Whether guarding livestock, riding along to check fields, or celebrating her wins (like catching her first squirrel), Aussie’s dedication, resilience, and joyful spirit embody what it means to be a farm dog.

Congratulations to Aussie and the Erickson Family on this exciting award!

Related Stories
ASFMRA’s Tony Toso joins us with an update on California farmland values, ongoing market uncertainty, and key discussions shaping agriculture in the Golden State.
Dave Duquette, founder of Western Justice, joined us to discuss wolf management, rancher concerns, efforts to return control to the states, and his upcoming documentary, “Wolves: True Conflict.”
As the strike at a JBS facility in Colorado continues, the National Right to Work Foundation is encouraging some employees to consider returning to work. The group says not all workers on strike may want to participate and urges those who choose to cross the picket line to resign from their union memberships.
Diversification is critical as conservation reshapes rural economies.
A man accused of orchestrating a nationwide cattle investment fraud scheme has been arrested in California after being on the FBI’s wanted list.
Hurd joined this week’s Champions of Rural America to review the proposed Farm Bill moving through the House and discuss its potential impact on rural communities and farmers across the country.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

One of the most iconic symbols of the holiday season is the Christmas tree. This year at RFD-TV! We are celebrating the tree farmers across Rural America that grow these iconic treasures. Here’s a soundtrack for you to enjoy this year as you gather to decorate yours — it’s a few of our favorite songs about Christmas trees!
Former Market Day Report anchor Janet Adkison was inducted into the National Association of Farm Broadcasting Hall of Fame, recognizing over 20 years of service sharing stories that impact Rural America.
Jake Charleston, with Specialty Risk Insurance, joins us now for an industry update and advice for cattle producers as they consider options for managing the risks of a murky market.
The National Milk Producers Federation will launch a new advocacy campaign to secure a final vote, urging House lawmakers to approve the bill as soon as they return from the Thanksgiving recess.
AFBF Vice President of Public Policy and Economic Analysis, Dr. John Newton, explains the factors contributing to the growing financial strain in the ag sector and the urgent need for swift economic support.
Tyson’s Nebraska plant closure and falling Cattle on Feed numbers send cattle markets tumbling. Analysts warn of tighter supplies, weak margins, and rising global competition.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
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!
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.
FarmHER + RanchHER on RFD-TV is working to change how people perceive a farmer by sharing the stories of the women who live and lead in agriculture.
Bill Gaither, the founder of one of gospel’s most successful groups, the Gaither Vocal Band, and his wife, Gloria, are delighted to showcase their favorite gospel music during “Gaither Gospel Hour” on RFD-TV.
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.