The Story of Merlin's Olde Ale

In the Spring of 2023, Merlin, a Border Collie belonging to Ian Caldicott of Wolston Farm in Scio, was diagnosed with cancer from a biopsy of the dew claw on his right front leg. The biopsy indicated a rare cancer with only one possible drug treatment. Merlin was started on that drug but rapidly declined. By June he had deteriorated to the point he was not expected to live another month. He was started on a regimen of steroids and mushroom extracts to help him at least feel comfortable.

One of Merlin's jobs was to be the go-to dog for the Get Set sheepdog trial setting crew, a group created by Whistle & Crook Stock Dog Services Inc. WCSDS was looking for possible fund-raising ventures, and it was suggested that working with Santiam Brewing to brew a beer in — what was expected at the time to be — memory of Merlin would be a possible option.

Meanwhile a second biopsy came back with a different type of cancer — also rare, but consistent with where the tumor was found and his symptoms. Unfortunately this cancer had no cure, and the only recommended treatments would have ended Merlin's working life. The cancer had clearly already metastasized to other parts of Merlin's body, so the only viable option was to continue the steroid and mushroom treatment to make him as comfortable as possible and allow him to work as long as possible.

Discussions between Santiam Brewing and WCSDS continued in the fall and into the winter. A decision was finally made in January to brew an olde-style English ale. Meanwhile Merlin was exceeding all expectations — his blood work and x-rays at the start of February indicated he was indeed quite healthy, other than a few minor side effects from the steroid use.

Merlin lived to feature on an episode of Andy's Adventures on Fox 12's Good Day Oregon and compete in the 2024 trial, living just 9 days past that event. The joy he had for his work and his indomitable spirit will be forever linked to this event through the beer brewed for it.

From the label — "With six different malts and Belgian candi sugar, this olde style ale is bold and nuanced like the working dog it is named for."