Last year, almost a million and a half acres of Chile’s forestland burned in one of the worst forest fire seasons of all time. Soon after, this team of dogs was recruited for a special mission: reseeding the forests with native species.
Das, a 6 year-old border collie, and her 2 year-old puppies Summer and Olivia, are outfitted with special backpacks filled with native seeds. On their unique mission, they’re sent out to run and roam through the burned forests. “They reeeeeally love [it]!!” their owner tells Mother Nature News. “It’s a country trip, where they can run as fast as they can and have a great time.”
The girls on a mission
On a typical trip, the dogs cover about 18 miles, and spread 20 pounds of seeds across the countryside. The dogs are trained to return for backpack refils regularly, and get lots of love and treats as a reward for their efforts.
Patiently awaiting a refill
When not playing Johnny Appleseed, these border collies are active in disc dog events, sheep herding, and obedience training. What a trio of well-rounded pups!
Hat Tip: Mother Nature Network