A Sheepdog Named Oscar Love and Companionship in Rural Ireland

The New York Times bestseller – a moving memoir of grief, healing, and the unbreakable bond between man and dog

The New York Times and Irish Times bestseller

After the sudden death of his father, Dara Waldron became disoriented in a world that had once filled him with wonder. A year later, he meets an abandoned border collie called Oscar hiding on a derelict farm in County Clare. When Dara brings him home, he believes he’s committing an act of rescue.

Oscar’s submissive behaviour hints at a difficult upbringing and, determined to earn his trust, Dara cares for him, walks with him and learns all he can about one of Ireland’s most beloved working breeds. As their unexpected companionship brings comfort to their troubled lives, Dara realises that Oscar might be the one doing the rescuing.

Set against the beauty of rural Ireland, A Sheepdog Named Oscar is a moving memoir about grief, healing and the incredible bond between humans and dogs. Beautifully written and rich with Waldron’s experience, Dara blends nature writing with a deeply personal story of recovery, revealing how small acts of loyalty can lead us back from darkness into life.

‘This book will do great good, and bring light to many lives’ Donal Ryan, author of The Spinning Heart

Dara Waldron, New York Times bestseller, September 2025; Irish Times bestseller, May 2026