Sask. sheepdogs make feature film debut in Hallmark movie
CTV
Hallmark movies are a holiday tradition for many – and one of the latest features some canine talent from right here in Saskatchewan.
Hallmark movies are a holiday tradition for many – and one of the latest features some canine talent from here in Saskatchewan.
Stevie and Marshall are two sheepdogs who were recently featured in the Hallmark film “Miracle in Bethlehem, PA” which was filmed in Winnipeg, Man.
The dynamic duo shared the role of one Sheepdog named Dolly in the film.
“They’re exceptionally trainable. I’ve been exhibiting them [for] 42 years and breeding them,” owner Valerie Bandas told CTV News. “Marshall in addition to being a movie dog is the top winning sheepdog of all time in Canada.”
Valerie Bandas has been around Old English Sheepdogs for most of her life, and now she breeds them for competition, with the help of dog trainer Katherine Ball who also owns Stevie.
“Sheepdogs are special because they’re a unique balance of good workers with a sense of humour,” Ball explained.
The opportunity came about after the Animal Actor’s Guild of Manitoba put out a call for some sheepdog talent that Bandas responded to, and soon enough they were off to the movies.
