Blind Farm Dog Goose Named Finalist for National Pup Award

By Blake Jackson

Kentucky Farm Bureau (KFB) has announced that Goose, a 12-year-old Red Heeler owned by KFB member Lindie Huffman of Pendleton County, has been chosen as one of only three national finalists for the People’s Choice Pup award in the American Farm Bureau Federation’s (AFBF) 2025 Farm Dog of the Year competition.

The national contest, now in its eighth year, highlights outstanding farm dogs and the essential roles they play for farmers and ranchers. While the competition names one Farm Dog of the Year, it also invites the public to vote online for their favorite candidate in the People’s Choice Pup category.

Goose has been a loyal working partner on the farm since his early days, helping with tobacco planting, moving cattle and watching over the greenhouse. In 2021, he developed glaucoma that ultimately took his eyesight. Facing a difficult choice, his family decided to have both of his eyes removed to ease his pain and give him a better quality of life.

“When Goose lost his sight, we hoped for the best, but I was amazed at how his resilience carried him through,” Huffman said. “He can’t round up cattle or fetch my tools anymore, but he’s still a vital part of farm life, using instinct and memory to guide him. On tough days, which sometimes stretch into tough seasons, Goose reminds me of the power of resilience, adaptability and gratitude. Watching him overcome blindness with such grace and grit gives me strength to face my own challenges.”

Even without his sight, Goose continues to be a beloved presence on the farm. He joins Huffman on slow walks to the barn, warmly greets visitors and has become well-known at the local farmers’ market and community gatherings such as “Barket at Market.”

Goose has been by Huffman’s side throughout her career as a county Extension agent and remains just as devoted as ever. To her, the “no-eyed wonder dog” is truly “the heart of the farm.”

Supporters can help Goose win the national People’s Choice Pup title by voting at kyfb.com/goose. Voting ends Nov. 28.

Photo Credit: Lindie-Huffman