In the world of dog lovers, there is always a fascinating story behind how one's passion for a particular breed starts. For one dedicated dog enthusiast, her journey began with an array of unforgettable experiences with different breeds before finding her true love in Golden Retrievers. This is the tale of a woman who discovered her calling in breeding and raising these remarkable canines while imparting valuable lessons along the way.
Early Beginnings: Growing up on a family ranch, surrounded by dogs, Alice's love for these faithful companions began at an early age. Dogs were an integral part of her life, starting from her very first dog, amusingly named "Nuffin," which left an indelible mark on her young heart. Her father's involvement in the Air Force and passion for hunting and trap shooting brought Brittanys into their lives. Witnessing the dogs' exceptional hunting skills firsthand, Alice developed a deep admiration for these highly energetic and spirited animals.
A Shift Towards Goldens: As she grew older and ventured into adulthood, Alice believed that Brittanys were better suited as field dogs than as house pets. However, fate had other plans in store. Upon getting married, her husband's desire to have a Golden Retriever gradually won her over. Alice fell head over heels for this gentle, intelligent, and friendly breed, often contemplating why her father had not chosen them rather than Brittanys. With the acquisition of another Golden and increasing demand for puppies, the author's journey into the world of Golden Retrievers gradually took shape.
The Birth of a Passion: What started as occasional litters to fulfill demand eventually transformed into a full-fledged commitment to breeding and raising Golden Retrievers exclusively. In 1997, Alice took a significant step by purchasing another kennel, strengthening her resolve to focus solely on these beautiful gold-coated canines. Over the years, she has acquired invaluable expertise, primarily in the skill of whelping puppies. This expertise has equipped her to handle a range of challenges that occasionally arise for even the most skilled breeders. These challenges may include managing difficult pregnancies and addressing health complications.
Learning and Growth: Throughout her experience as a breeder, Alice has continually honed her skills in order to provide the best care possible during the birthing process. While she occasionally faces challenges such as dystocia litters, twisted horn litters, or premature labor, these occurrences are rare due to her keen intuition and proactive approach. Alice's dedication to her dogs is unwavering, and she ensures they receive patient and meticulous care at all times.
While reflecting on her journey, Alice acknowledged the transformative power of acquiring an ultrasound machine earlier on. This invaluable tool allowed her to detect potential complications early, ultimately saving the lives of numerous puppies. Recognizing the importance of staying updated with advanced technologies, she has been able to further enhance her breeding practices and safeguard the well-being of her dogs. As part of her commitment to continuous improvement, Alice began showcasing her dogs in UKC confirmation shows. Seeking evaluations from experts like Pat Hastings provided her with validation of her methods and valuable insights for further refinement. These experiences have helped Alice become a more knowledgeable and skilled breeder, ensuring the highest quality in her dogs. Alice's story emphasizes the significance of ongoing learning and growth in the field of breeding. While potential issues may arise infrequently, it is through dedication, patience, and a commitment to seeking external expertise that breeders can consistently provide exceptional care. By combining their natural abilities with continuous education, breeders such as Alice can ensure the health, well-being, and quality of their dogs and puppies.
Beyond Competition: Although she initially started showing her dogs to ensure she was breeding ethically and correctly, Alice found herself drawn towards activities that allowed her to bond and have fun with her dogs. By visiting senior homes and providing service dogs to those in need, the author found joy and fulfillment in sharing the love and companionship of her Golden Retrievers.
Future Endeavors: While the recent pandemic curtailed her participation in dog shows, Alice looks forward to returning to the ring, focusing on her latest puppy, whom she predicts will excel in conformation. With renewed confidence, she plans to reenter UKC and International events and potentially explore AKC shows as well. Furthermore, she hopes to harness her newfound vitality and feel more at ease running around the show ring and dabble agility, dock dogs, and scent work.
In this inspiring journey, Alice’s unwavering love for dogs led her from one breed to another until finally finding bliss in the Golden Retriever. Through perseverance, dedication, and a genuine desire to bring happiness to families through well-bred, healthy dogs, she has left an indelible mark on the breed. As she continues to learn and grow with her beloved Goldens, her adventures serve as a testament to the incredible bond between humans and their four-legged companions. Thank you Alice for sharing your story and invaluable
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