{
  "id": 5875813,
  "title": "Old working dogs refuse to be put out to pasture",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/06/old-working-dogs-refuse-to-be-put-out-to-pasture",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-06T00:58:11.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ABC News AU",
    "slug": "abc-news-au",
    "url": "https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-09-06/old-working-dogs-still-at-it/107104252"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "For generations in the Vaux and Parsons families, working dogs have been an integral part of life on their farms in Western Australia. At Ongerup, King Vaux's family has cared for about eight generations of faithful canines, with Cassie, the 15-year-old border collie-huntaway cross, being the last of her line. Despite being deaf and arthritic, Cassie remains highly functional, guiding the younger dogs and still enjoying her work. Owner Renae Parsons of Tenterden farm speaks of her 13-year-old kelpie, Bundy, who may not work at full capacity but is still treasured. If a more capable working dog came along, Parsons would be quick to replace him. Even with age-related limitations, these older dogs continue to form strong bonds with their human counterparts, proving that devotion transcends physical capability.",
  "summary": "Arthritis and other ailments cannot stop these faithful companions, who are still pulling their weight on farming properties.",
  "key_points": [
    "Eight generations of dogs cared for by Vaux and Parsons families",
    "15-year-old Cassie, last of her line, still functional",
    "Owner replaces dogs only if more capable ones arrive"
  ],
  "editors_take": "The enduring relationships between ageing working dogs and their owners show that the animals' value lies not just in their productivity, but in their companionship and loyalty.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}