Derby Olson-Tripp

Derby was born December 14th, 2017 on a small farm in Derby, IA. A Great Pyrenees/Anatolian Shepherd cross, known as livestock guardian dog, he had a natural instinct to guard animals. He moved to Faribault in March 2018 where he would become top dog at Graise Farm guarding chickens, ducks, guineas, geese, and goats. He befriended everyone that visited the farm. He would greet you with his deep-toned bark, but once he heard us talking, he quieted and would lean into your leg. He was highly respected by everyone on the farm, making special friends with a mother goose, his four dog-mates, many cats, and Andy and Tiffany. He had a unique relationship with each one.

Derby took his job seriously. He had different ways to notify predators that had entered onto his territory. He would bark to let them know he was in charge, but if a predator like a coyote or fox got too close, he would silently approach them and gracefully chase them away, never attacking unless he felt threatened. He would catch possums at night and carry them around. When he set them down and they appeared dead, he would walk away and let them walk free. The only animal he hunted was rabbit, his favorite pastime and snack. He not only guarded the animals, but his humans too, often chasing after bikers and snowmobilers passing by prompting his humans to go running after him.

Derby loved winter and snow. He also loved running through the grassy fields and woods. He loved a homecooked turkey dinner and raw steak and liver. He loved waking in the middle of the night to alert coyotes to go away. He loved hunting rabbit and chasing deer. He loved his couch in the house. He loved raw bones. He loved his morning routine of running around the farm to make sure everyone was safe. He loved lying on the grass overlooking the farm. He loved spending time with Tiffany and Andy.

He slept with one eye open so he always knew what was going on. His big white head reminded visitors of Falkor from The Neverending Story, but we endearingly called him Derby Dude or Derby Doo. He was not only a livestock guard dog, but a therapy dog and friend for Tiffany and Andy. He is deeply missed and will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Derby was diagnosed with bone cancer on October 29th. He caught his last rabbit on Monday, December 23rd and passed away peacefully at home later that day. Passing over the rainbow bridge, he will meet again with mother goose, Kirby, Ida, Ella, George, Otis, Tommy and other farm animals that have passed before him. He is survived by Andy and Tiffany, Vera, Fred, Ginger, Smokey and the many cats and farm animals.