Whew! Now that I'm caught up on my Digests I must say that there have been some lively discussions! (we've been busy with Jenny and Canoe, getting them settled in and realizing that yes, we DO have 4 big dogs!) Our breeder sold us a pup with one blue eye for the same price as her"show quality" pups. She gave us specific instructions on feeding, socialization and exercise, which we followed. She has been (and continues to be) available to us as a resource and friend. Our contract stipulates that Mickey's hips and elbows be x-rayed and the results be registered. We will also have to have his eyes CERFed. We have been VERY happy with our experience with our breeder. And I feel that our Mickey, who possesses a fabulous temperament, intelligence, sparkle, wit, drive, affection, a sound body and a desire to please, is every bit worth the price we paid. Some of the breeders on the List have mentioned breeding for temperament and health before "looks" and I applaud that.
We have also recently taken in 2 more Berners - Jenny & Canoe. They are 9 and 5 respectively. Their breeder was contacted by the rescue group and as a result, we have also been able to talk about the girls. And last weekend, she came to visit and see just where these dogs (one of them, nearly a decade down the line!) have ended up. She has been available to us as a resource and now a friend! The girls need some TLC and Jenny esp. needs to drop about 10 lbs. But their breeder has taken responsibility for the dogs -- in word and deed. Although some folks have had sad or nasty or tragic experiences with dogs and breeders, we have had wonderful ones! Catherine Young in Madison WI Shadow & Mickey & Jenny & Canoe
