LA CROSSE (WKBT) — The last day of Irishfest was celebrated with a demonstration of sheep herding– a method of controlling sheep remotely using a dog.

Trainer John Wentz learned this version of herding after chasing sheep himself for 15 years. He said learning to train the dogs is no easy feat, but it pays off.

Wentz brought two dogs to demonstrate sheep herding to the community Saturday, and he drew quite a crowd.

“People like to see it, and a lot of the time it’s the biggest draw to an event. People just like to see the dogs doing stuff with the sheep,” Wentz said.

This method of sheep herding is a tradition that goes back centuries.

Wentz says he’s been coming to irishfest for six years– and he will keep coming as long as he is invited.

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