When we aren’t cruising in the "Doghouse on Wheels" toward our next state, I have a massive responsibility back at home base. You might think being a travel dog is all about naps and new smells, but someone has to keep the Rhode Island Reds in line. I have over 20 chickens under my watch. They are loud, they are feathered, and they are constantly trying to find the best worms. Most dogs might chase them, but I take a different approach: The Ride-Along Program. As you can see, I’ve started offering "back-seat" tours of the coop. This hen decided that my back was the best vantage point for scouting out snacks. It takes a lot of patience to stay perfectly still when you have claws digging into your fur, but that’s just part of the job description for a high-level manager.

The Red Heeler Way: My humans say I have "herding instincts," but I call it "organizational management." Whether we are at a dog park in a faraway location, or in the backyard with the my Rhode Island Reds (chickens), I make sure everyone is exactly where they are supposed to be. Shadow usually helps by... well, she mostly helps by staying out of the way so I can work. If you are evey looking for Shadow, just check the main coop nesting boxes, you will finder her in there sneaking an egg or two.

The Rhode Island Red

Patches takes her job seriously because Rhode Island Reds are some of the most iconic and resilient birds in the backyard poultry world. Here’s why they are the "stars" of our farm:

• State Icon: They are the official state bird of Rhode Island and were specifically bred in Little Compton, RI, in the mid-1800s.
• The "Dual-Purpose" Standard: They are famous for being a "dual-purpose" breed, meaning they were traditionally raised for both high-quality egg production and meat.
• Egg Machines: A healthy Rhode Island Red can lay between 200 to 300 large brown eggs a year. With Patches managing 20+ hens, that’s a lot of breakfast for the humans!
• Outstanding Hardiness: These birds are incredibly "weather-proof." They handle the Florida humidity and the cold winters equally well, making them as tough as the motorhome we travel in.
• Distinct Personality: Much like our Red Heeler, Rhode Island Reds are known for being curious, active, and occasionally a bit pushy—which explains why that one hen felt bold enough to hitch a ride on Patches' back!
• Deep Mahogany Color: Their feathers are prized for that rich, dark red-to-black shimmer. It actually complements Patches’ red speckled coat quite well in photos!