Daisy, a border collie who was deemed unfit for farm work, has found a new career as a life-drawing model and yoga companion. Her owner, Fiona Pearson, adopted her from Ireland in 2023 and describes her as a 'lady of leisure' who loves attention and cuddles.
From farm failure to family pet
Pearson, from Nottingham, heard about Daisy through a friend. The dog was a working sheepdog in Ireland but wasn't up to the job. 'We travelled from Nottingham to meet her and I fell in love. It was clear that she was not cut out for working and wanted to be a lady of leisure,' Pearson said. Daisy is now about six years old, with one blue eye and one brown eye, and a black, white, and caramel coat.
A model in the making
In March 2024, Daisy modelled at a life-drawing class in a local coffee shop. The event was organised by their dog groomer and advertised on Instagram. Daisy was one of several dogs that rotated as models every 15 minutes. 'She was quite giddy, as usual. Whenever a staff member walked past, she thought she was getting a treat,' Pearson recalled. The drawings were displayed at the end of the session.
Yoga and wedding celebrations
Pearson, a yoga teacher, often brings Daisy to her classes. 'Clients now ask me to bring her. I think they are more interested in her than me,' she said. Daisy also featured in Pearson's wedding in Ireland in March 2024. The couple had glow sticks printed with photos of Daisy and other guests' dogs, and coasters with her image. 'All our friends and family know how important Daisy is to us and we had to honour her on our big day,' Pearson explained.
Adapting to a new life
Despite her rural origins, Daisy has adapted well to domestic life. 'I can’t imagine life without Daisy now. We are very attached to each other and she brings so much joy to our lives. She is my shadow – whether I’m getting my nails done or going to the Peak District to look at the sunset, she is always by my side,' Pearson said.
