For many devoted readers and new visitors alike, the animals of Bedlam Farm hold a special place. With an increasing number of newcomers discovering this corner of the internet, questions frequently arise about the current residents, particularly the renowned dogs of Bedlam Farm Jon Katz has shared his life with. It’s time to provide a comprehensive update on the canine family and the ever-evolving “Peaceable Kingdom” we cultivate here. While long-time followers of my books and blog often inquire about past companions like Rose or Elvis, this post aims to clarify the present cast of characters, offering a summary of the wonderful dogs who grace our lives today.
Meet the Current Canine Residents of Bedlam Farm
At present, our farm is home to three remarkable dogs, each bringing their unique spirit and purpose to our daily lives. These are the loyal companions who define “The Dogs Of Bedlam Farm Jon Katz” in this chapter of our story.
Red: The Dedicated Border Collie
Red, an eight-year-old Border Collie, is a true working dog in every sense. Hailing from Northern Ireland, he joined us two years ago, chosen specifically for his exceptional herding instincts and his calm demeanor. Red isn’t just a master sheepdog; he also excels in therapy work, offering comfort and connection wherever he goes. His journey to Bedlam Farm was serendipitous; a breeder, Karen Thompson, felt a divine connection after reading one of my books, leading Red directly to us. His intelligence, focus, and unwavering loyalty are a constant source of admiration and a cornerstone of our farm’s operations.
Lenore: The Affectionate Hound of Love
Lenore, our eight-year-old black Labrador Retriever, is famously known as the “Hound of Love.” Her gentle nature and boundless affection have made her the subject of several children’s books, endearing her to countless readers. She comes from an exceptional lineage, bred by Gretchen Pinkel of Kee-Pin Labradors, a breeder whose dedication and integrity I deeply respect. Lenore embodies the spirit of unconditional love, always ready with a wagging tail and a soft nudge, making everyone around her feel cherished and seen. Her presence brings a profound sense of warmth and tranquility to the farm.
Frieda: The Resilient Rottweiler-Shepherd Mix
Frieda, affectionately known as the “Helldog” in her younger, more formidable years, is now approximately 15 years old. This Rottweiler-Shepherd mix boasts a captivating and wild backstory, which I chronicled in my book, “Second Chance Dog.” Once fiercely protective and a deterrent to many, Frieda has mellowed with age, though her independent spirit remains. She is a testament to resilience, defying the years with remarkable tenacity. While she is undoubtedly getting old, she continues to hold her own, a constant reminder of the profound impact a dog’s journey can have on our lives.
The Role of Nutrition: Fromm Family Foods
The remarkable health and vitality of our dogs, particularly Frieda’s longevity, I attribute significantly to their diet. We feed them Fromm Family Food. For years, none of our dogs have gained an unhealthy pound; they show no allergies, maintain healthy digestive systems, and their coats remain shiny and rich. I firmly believe Fromm Senior food has been instrumental in keeping Frieda thriving well into her fifteenth year. Fromm Family Food is our blog’s sole sponsor, and for good reason: they are America’s oldest family-owned holistic pet food company, committed to not outsourcing their food production and boasting a pristine record with no product recalls. Their dedication to quality reflects in the well-being of our animals.
Jon Katz with his beloved working Border Collie, Red, and gentle Black Labrador, Lenore, symbolizing 'The Dogs of Bedlam Farm'
Reflecting on the Past: Lessons from Bedlam Farm’s Evolution
Life at Bedlam Farm has seen many transformations. We remember beloved companions like Rose and Izzy, who passed away several years ago, and Elvis, the Swiss Steer, whose severe leg issues led to his humane slaughter, providing sustenance for the homeless in Glens Falls for a year. There was a time, at the first Bedlam Farm, when our animal population was far more extensive: four dogs, thirty-five sheep, two steers, a beef cow, two barn cats, three goats, and a half-dozen chickens.
While each animal offered invaluable lessons, the sheer number eventually became overwhelming. It became clear that managing so many creatures made it difficult to provide adequate individual care and truly connect with each one. This period was a vivid sign that I was losing perspective, prioritizing quantity over quality in our animal husbandry. This experience shaped our current approach, leading us to a more balanced and harmonious living arrangement.
Life Beyond the Dogs: Other Beloved Animals at Bedlam Farm
Today, alongside the dogs of Bedlam Farm Jon Katz shares his life with, we maintain a more manageable and deeply cherished family of other animals. Our three donkeys – Simon, the subject of my upcoming book “Saving Simon,” along with Lulu and Fanny – are gentle and intelligent companions. Minnie and Flo are our two industrious barn cats, keeping watch over the property. Four unnamed chickens scratch and peck around the yard, and eight sheep graze peacefully in the pastures.
This current configuration feels just right. It allows Maria and me to easily care for all our animals, ensuring each one receives the attention and bond they deserve. We have fostered a truly peaceable kingdom where all creatures coexist gently and harmoniously. We work diligently to cultivate this spirit, and the animals, in turn, seem to embrace it and share it with us, creating a unique and deeply fulfilling environment at Bedlam Farm.
Conclusion
The current “dogs of Bedlam Farm Jon Katz” — Red, Lenore, and Frieda — are distinct personalities, yet they share a common thread of comfort and ease with one another and with us. Their presence, along with our donkeys, cats, chickens, and sheep, forms a truly wonderful animal family. This updated summary hopefully provides insight into our current life at Bedlam Farm, illustrating the balanced and affectionate dynamic we are so fortunate to experience. We are truly lucky to have these extraordinary creatures in our lives, each contributing to the rich tapestry of our daily existence.
