"Shepherd and Flock of Sheep," circa 1880

Sheep supply two items essential for human survival, wool for clothing and meat for food. This makes them a farm asset, but protecting sheep requires vigilance. Sheep are social animals with an instinct to move together as a flock. Shepherds use dogs to help protect their flock and herd animals from pens to pasture and back. The close bond conjures visions of a bucolic rural past, emphasizing human-animal relationships.