Who We Are?
About us
Welcome to Emerald Mountain Ranch, stewards of the fifth-generation legacy of Stanko Ranch established 1907. Nestled in the stunning landscapes of the Yampa River Valley and Emerald Mountain, we share the challenges, commitment, and satisfaction of ranching in the Colorado mountains. Meet our beloved animals and learn about our Amazing Loyal Hardworking Livestock Guardian Dogs, including Turkish Boz Shepherds. Join us as we celebrate our way of life and the enduring spirit of ranching.
The Stanko Ranch sits nestled on the western slope of Emerald Mountain, also known as Quarry Mountain, in the picturesque surroundings of Steamboat Springs. Originating from a humble 160-acre claim staked by Patrick’s Great Grandfather in 1907, the ranch has flourished over the years, expanding to over 600 acres. Throughout its history, it has been a hub of agricultural activity, cultivating crops such as wheat and potatoes, and raising livestock including cattle, sheep, and hogs.
Today, the Stanko Ranch remains a labor of love for the family of Jim and Jo (Patrick’s Parents), Patrick, and Jan. Their commitment to preserving the legacy of the ranch extends to the careful selection of livestock guardian dogs. In response to the proximity of wolves in neighboring Wyoming, Jan embarked on a quest to find capable guardians for their livestock. After thorough research, the family settled on Turkish Boz Shepherds, renowned for their effectiveness in protecting livestock.
At the heart of their operation is a dedication to producing top-notch working Livestock Guardian Dogs (LGDs), meticulously trained and exposed to various aspects of ranch life, from protecting cattle and sheep to safeguarding poultry. The Stanko Ranch stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of family farming and the timeless bond between humans and animals.
Emerald Mtn. Ranch
Emerald Mtn Ranch | 5th Generation Stanko Ranch Est. 1907 • 700-acre Yampa Valley working ranch. Purpose-bred Turkish Boz Shepherds, raised and proven under real mountain conditions and predator pressure.
Advocates for LGDs, land & livestock
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Following up on the PennHip post with some info on OFA. I’m definitely no expert, just sharing what I’ve learned for our Boz.
Database:
They are in the OFA system
Prelims vs. Finals:
You can do prelims at 1 year, but those are judged by one person vs. the 3-judge panel for finals at age 2.
Some say prelims are actually graded a bit tougher.
Hauling over the mountains is a long day for us at Emerald Mtn Ranch.
A light vet prescription helps them stay chill for the ride without messing up the x-rays or thyroid/cardiac tests.
Tip: OFA doesn’t require sedation, but every vet is different.
Also, recommended not testing if your female is in heat, as hormones can loosen up the joints
I’m still learning as I go, so if you’ve got tips or do things differently, I’d love to hear them
Echo says half a ball is plenty. Honestly, between a Mini Toy Aussie and a McNab, we’ve stopped counting the casualties 🐾
Happy Wednesday from the ranch