Drought cancels record number of sheep dog trials

rolonged drought conditions around much of the country have forced a record number of regional sheep dog trials to be cancelled this year.

At least six trials have been cancelled in the North Island, and two in the South Island.

The president of the New Zealand Dog Trial Association, Merv King, says the drought has been putting a lot of stress on the sheep, which are much lighter than normal.

Having sheep locked up for dog trials when they are already under stress is not a good idea at this time of year, he says. MORE>>