Our residence is in McHenry, IL. We share our home with 8 Shelties.
Dogs have always been a very major part of my life. My two favorite breeds, are the Sheltland Sheepdog and the German Shepherd , who are in my opinion , the most intelligent in dogdom. I became involved with Shetland Sheepdogs in 1998. Prior to that I had always had German Shepherds. I lost my last Shepherd in 1994.
I preferred the longer haired Shepherds. Although I now have an elegant black and tan female. correctly coated German Shepherd I acquired for show, companionship and protection.
I have always had multiple dogs because I enjoy observing and learning about their social structure/heirarchy. From 1995 until 1998 I did not have a dog by my side. Very unusual for me! At that time I was living in a townhome. When reading to move, I purchased 2 Shelties to accompany our family move to McHenry, Elizabeth and her daughter Lola. And thus began my love affair with the small toonie dog.
Lola, Westwind Sacred Heart, was a beautiful girl with a stellar pedigree. I bred her to another Westwind dog, Ch. Westwind Wildfire, Jody, and kept one of the girls from that litter, which is Abby.
Before Abby was conceived I read and learned as much as possible about the Sheltie. I attended shows to get a better visual on the Standard and talked to breeders.
I breed occasionally, for myself, only to add something to my kennel. That something would be a certain trait, for improvement or color. I do not breed to the "stud of the month" and follow a semi closed breeding program.
I usually only have one litter a year, if that, and only with an eye towards the future of the breed and towards the standard.
All my dogs are carefully groomed at least twice a week, more so if getting ready to show. They are fed a highly nutritional holistic food that is on the cutting edge of canine nutrition. Twice a day we have a "play/training time" outside in our large fenced yard. Otherwise they have free roam of the house and yard. I do have 3 kennels outside for bitches in heat, or when males have to be separated.
I have trained dogs in obedience and have dabbled in sheepherding and agility. I show my dogs in conformation, (AKC) and breed for movement and structure. My dogs are always well socialized. I really enjoy grooming and showing my dogs, but I like to stay local , so I also will use a handler to finish a dog.
My dogs are genetically tested. My pet puppies have have all been adopted into wonderful homes and I still stay in contact with many of their owners . They come with a lifetime of support from me and are always welcome back to Cheviot if the need arises. Pet puppies are sold on spay/neuter contracts.
The endearing little Shetland Sheepdog, like the noble German Shepherd, has become my passion. Their companionship qualities are uncomparable. They are highly trainable, intuitive, compassionate , very devoted to their owners and to each other.
Their beauty is unmatched in my eyes.
I am a member of "The Healthy Pet Net". A company dedicated to the well-being of companion animals. When you discover their food, Lifes Abundance, and your dog/cat reaps all the benefits this food gives them, you will be amazed!.
HOME
|
|
|
|