Enjoy a unique shepherd's experience in west Mayo
'TWO sheepdog fanatics operating a unique shepherd’s experience in west Mayo' is how The Connaught Telegraph described the Newport Shepherds when we first introduced them to our readers.
For a truly unique and memorable experience for all ages and interests, a visit to the shepherds, Alan Moran and Andes born Paul Walker, at the foot of the Nephin mountains, near Newport, is a must.
The Newport Shepherds are committed to caring for, protecting, and enhancing our nation’s heritage for future generations. Having perfected their skills on the hills of Newport and the Andes, their sheepdog training and demonstration business offers a unique experience in west Mayo.
At the Newport Shepherds, you'll immerse yourself in the world of sheepdogs and mountains, engage with our rich heritage, and hear fascinating stories about how our ancestors adapted to working sheep in the mountains of the Wild Atlantic Way.
From a short demonstration suitable for all ages and backgrounds in an accessible paddock, to the opportunity to experience the life of a shepherd in Ireland and even train your own dog using our proven methods, the Newport Shepherds offer everything.
Experience Irish traditions and the great outdoors, observe skills and methods that have been handed down through generations, learn how important sheepdogs are in everyday life in Ireland and how they have been part of the history of humankind.
The shepherds offer sheepdog training for all levels of experience and obedience.
You will see dogs in all stages of their training and in interactive demonstrations you'll learn how the Border Collie breed developed in farming over the years and how these special work dogs are trained and learn.
The shepherds are also currently on a nationwide mission to bring farming life and nature back into schools. Whether they bring their mobile show to your school or college, or you choose to come visit them, they guarantee a memorable experience for students of all ages as they work hands-on with their sheepdogs. Book the Newport Shepherds and escape the classroom.
As Alan explained: “We invite the public to connect with nature through observing and experiencing how dogs work together with us. To feel what is it to work a trained dog and how through this we connect with the present and nature.
“We will share an experience of how man adapted to nature working together with his best friend, to understand that without this adaptation and the border collie it would be impossible to have handled sheep in these mountains as hundreds of generations have done.”
The Newport Shepherds are located three kilometres from Newport on the Achill Road (F28 NY10).