My Kali will soon be 13, not a puppydog any more (even if I still call him that). My vet says that the average lifespan of a farm-born collie is 14, but that I have him "on the right track" to do better than that. However, he is not as quick to respond as he used to be (although in a field or on a beach, he's still a hairy Exocet!), his hearing is deteriorating and I think his eyesight isn't as sharp as it once was :-( This is the stage at which, were he an Orkney working dog, he'd probably be shot .Not much reward for a lifetime's service. However, I'm glad he came here, where we can look after him and make sure he gets his full allotment of days. He has been good to me, and worth every penny of his "adoption fee" Snorri
Aww that's a lovely photo. Is it recent? Because he doesn't look 13 at all! I'm glad he came to you. I'm sure he has plenty of life yet and definately doesn't deserve to be shot
That pic dates from 13 May last year, not long after his 12th birthday - he was much the same then as he is now, senses dulling a wee bit, but still enjoying life. He is gradually handing over the barking duties to his younger brother, but still maintains his position as boss! Snorri
Kali looks absolutely wonderful! I am glad that the farmers and shepherds I know don't shoot their dogs when they retire! :-(
aww he is one true beautiful collie and has plenty of life left in him yet,my old collie girl nerys of flyn lived for 18yrs
What a handsome pup he is. I still call my old girl my puppy eyes. keeps em young ya know. He's gorgeous, many happy returns old boy
