The Baby Whisperer
by Seda, the Anatolian Shepherd
The meadow wakes slowly this morning — soft light, low-hanging fog, and a new sound: the quiet breathing and faintest moo of a newborn calf still learning how to stand.
This is my favorite kind of day.
The mamas know I’m here. They always do. Some glance my way and bristle, but then settle again. My presence is reassuring; they trust that I’ll keep watch while they rest or graze. It’s an understanding — not spoken, just shared — and it’s a responsibility I take seriously.
They call me the baby whisperer, though I don’t whisper much. I just listen. Babies speak in ways most never notice — a tremble, a breath, the sound of tiny hooves finding balance.
I see them, every one.
Among the Dexters, I’m the only Anatolian allowed close when a baby first arrives. Even the fiercest mothers will stand aside and let me near. They know my scent, my stillness, and that I mean no harm. If a calf wobbles too far, the mamas low softly and then look to me — knowing their calf is safe because I am near.
I doze during the daylight hours, generally looking like a furry speed bump. But when the sun fades and the pasture turns silver, my real work begins. I walk the edges of the meadow, nose to the wind, ears tuned for the wild ones who prowl in the dark, looking for an easy meal.
They won’t find one here.
The coyotes know my voice, and they keep their distance. Even the tiniest weanlings — smaller than sheep — sleep without fear, knowing I’m on patrol. Our Creator designed me this way, and much like Him, I keep the nights peaceful.
“You won't need to be afraid when you lie down.
When you lie down, your sleep will be peaceful.” Proverbs 3:24
The Kibble Lady says she couldn’t do this without me. I don’t know about that, but I do know peace doesn’t come by accident. It’s something you guard — steady, quiet, and faithful.
So I’ll stay here through the night, eyes bright beneath the stars, keeping watch while the little ones dream, and tomorrow, when morning comes, I’ll sleep deeply — knowing last night was a job well done.
