Important role of a shepherd

There are good reasons for the tradition of having a shepherd accompanying flocks of goats or chicken. Letting them roam unattended near the jungle or in dogs' territory for example calls for trouble.

Shepherding is one of the world's oldest occupations, it exists in all parts of the globe, and it is an important part of pastoralist animal husbandry.

And there is also a good reason for using a "shepherd's crook" when taking sheep and goats for a walk. The shepherd's crook is a long and sturdy stick with a hook at one end, often with the point flared outwards, used by a shepherd to manage and sometimes catch sheep. In addition, the crook may aid in defending against attack by predators.

Also stray dogs can easily be chased away by waving a stick, or throwing a small (!) stone. No need to resort to poisoning stray dogs.

photo: unknown source