Our Passion Forward
Who We Are
At Rafter C Consulting, we believe that a well-trained livestock guardian dog (LGD) is one of the most effective and sustainable tools for protecting livestock. Our mission is to bridge the gap between science and ranching by providing ranchers, farmers, and landowners with research-based education, hands-on training, and ongoing support that ensures guardian dogs reach their full potential.
With a master's degree in animal science from Texas A&M University and over 15 years of experience working directly with LGDs and livestock operations, we understand the challenges that come with raising and managing working dogs. From bonding puppies to livestock, addressing roaming behavior, or fine-tuning problem-solving in the pasture, our services are designed to provide practical, field-tested solutions that are backed by solid research. We work side by side with producers to help dogs develop into reliable protectors that safeguard sheep, goats, cattle, and other livestock against predators of all sizes—from coyotes and bobcats to bears and aerial threats.
Education is at the core of what we do. We use current research, scientific studies, and Extension resources to guide ranchers through every step of LGD development. Whether it’s workshops, one-on-one consulting, or custom training plans, our goal is to provide producers with the tools and knowledge they need to make confident decisions about their livestock guardian dog programs. This not only improves the success rate of each dog but also strengthens predator management strategies across ranching operations.
At Rafter C Consulting, we combine science, tradition, and practical ranch know-how to create long-term success stories. Our approach is straightforward: we listen to your needs, apply proven methods, and support you through the process of raising dogs that are not just guardians, but trusted partners.
Meet Us
Our Lead Consultant
Bill Costanzo is a leading expert in livestock guardian dogs with a robust academic background and practical experience. He specializes in developing tailored training programs and offers invaluable insights to ranchers, ensuring their livestock guardian dogs are effective and well-integrated.
707-775-9711
Expert Consulting Services
Why Choose Rafter C Consulting?
Rafter C Consulting isn’t just another agricultural consulting service; it’s founded on science, hands-on field experience, and proven results. Unlike generalist firms, Rafter C focuses on livestock guardian dogs (LGDs), predator management, and ranch support, combining academic research with practical ranching expertise. This unique mix ensures clients get recommendations that are both data-driven and effective in real-world situations.
What sets Rafter C apart:
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Research-Driven Guidance: Our strategies are based on peer-reviewed science and extension research, providing solutions supported by Texas A&M AgriLife and other top agricultural institutions.
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Specialized Expertise: We concentrate on LGDs, bonding programs, predator control, and livestock protection, niche areas where other companies often lack expertise.
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Custom Solutions for Every Ranch: Each operation is unique. We customize training, management plans, and consulting packages to match your livestock, land, and management style.
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Proven Results in the Field: Our efforts have decreased livestock losses, increased predator awareness in LGDs, and helped producers save animals and money.
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Rancher-to-Rancher Understanding: We understand the challenges producers face firsthand and offer practical, straightforward solutions that can be put into action immediately.
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At Rafter C Consulting, we combine hands-on experience with research-based partnerships to offer complete, science-backed solutions for your ranch, from livestock protection to whole-operation management.
With Rafter C Consulting, you’re not just hiring a consultant; you’re gaining a partner invested in the success of your ranch.
Affiliated Consulting Groups
At Rafter C Consulting, we believe ranch success comes from more than just good management—it comes from the right network of trusted experts. That’s why we collaborate with a select group of agricultural professionals and organizations who share our science-based, producer-first approach.
Through these partnerships, we offer clients a complete range of ranching services that go beyond livestock guardian dog management. Whether you need assistance with pasture and grazing systems, herd health, genetics, wildlife and predator management, fencing technology, or financial planning, our network ensures you have access to the best expertise available.
Our affiliated partners include:
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Canine Behavior Partners
Specialists in livestock guardian dog behavior, bonding, and problem-solving. They help producers understand canine communication, manage working-dog dynamics, and build stronger livestock-dog partnerships based on proven behavioral science. -
Sheep & Goat Production Consultants
Experts in small-ruminant health, nutrition, and reproduction. They help producers improve herd performance through science-based strategies for breeding, parasite control, grazing efficiency, and flock management. -
Beef Cattle Production Consultants
Specialists in beef herd health, nutrition, and genetics. They assist ranchers in improving efficiency and profitability through data-driven management, nutrition planning, and breeding system design. -
Veterinary and Animal Health Specialists
Provide herd-health planning, vaccination schedules, parasite control, and reproductive management customized for each operation. -
Ranch Financial and Economic Consultants
Offer expertise in business planning, tax strategies, and generational transition to strengthen ranch profitability and long-term resilience. -
Range and Habitat Management Partners
Experts in grazing systems, pasture health, and habitat conservation who help producers maintain productive, sustainable landscapes that support both livestock and wildlife. -
Wildlife Management Consultants
Professionals in wildlife ecology, habitat balance, and predator coexistence. They assist ranchers in developing strategies that integrate wildlife conservation with production goals—enhancing biodiversity while protecting livestock and range resources.
Working Together for Ranch Success
By aligning with these respected partners and consultants, Rafter C Consulting serves as your one-stop source for comprehensive ranch solutions, rooted in science, guided by experience, and customized to the unique challenges of your operation.
Our Esteemed Clients
Success Stories
Our clients range from small family farms to larger ranches and educational institutions, each benefiting from our consulting services. We pride ourselves on building strong relationships and providing tailored solutions that meet the diverse needs of livestock owners.
