Spend a couple of minutes scrolling our social feeds and it’s obvious — we love our dogs here at Shannon Ridge. Yes, it is as fun as it looks, being surrounded by so much floof; our four-legged friends provide companionship, laughs, and all-around marketing gold. What’s more, they have played an indispensable role in our ecosystem from day one; the safety of our workers and our livestock depends on these capable cuties.
This post, however, isn’t about our sustainable farming practices, tasting notes, or ratings. It’s about a goofy ol’ gal that has stolen our hearts and become family to us.
Defender by Day
Old Pearl, AKA Pearl Baby, AKA “Poop,” is the official mascot of our working dogs. Sure, Great Pyrenees are known for their tremendous power, which makes them great defenders against bears, coyotes, and other predators. Their thick coats and calm, patient, temperaments make them a perfect match for the varied climate that vineyard life demands. They thrive out in the open land and they’re smart, too; they seem to coordinate amongst themselves with little prompting from us. As our founder, Clay Shannon, puts it, “You just have to talk to them.”
Still, there’s a side of Pearl that you won’t find in a Wikipedia article or adoption brochure. Cue Angie Shannon’s favorite subject. “She’s actually not very playful. She’s super shy and sweet.” Despite being only 5 years old, Old Pearl earned her name because “she acts like she is 75.” She has a lazy streak, and “only moves if she smells a predator. The sheep love her because she is so gentle.”
