As a prospective puppy owner, we are advised to join a local dog club to learn about the breed and the Berner community. I have learned that these reasons, though important, are only the tip of the iceberg. A dog club can offer so much more -- just persist and get past the I-don't-know-anyone phase.
My Berner Buddy was entered in a cluster of shows this past November but with no one to take him in the ring. I had been ill and knew I would not be able to scamper around the ring so I called Carol Lingley, a fellow club member. I didn't know her very well and asked her (rather hesitantly) if she would like to show Buddy. We met at Catoctin Kennel twice before the show. I learned that this woman is not only generous with her time and expertise, she is truly besotted with Berners -- any Berner! Buddy was trotted, corrected, stacked, corrected, petted, corrected, massaged, corrected and hugged. Carol complimented me on Buddy's training, his physical condition and his grooming. This really means a lot to a fumbling owner! She worked extensively with Buddy at the kennel, and I worked on Buddy's grooming (after praying extensively). Off to the dog show we went and the rest is history: 4 shows, 16 pts. and a Group 4 for icing on the cake. For all you Prospective Puppy Owners and new puppy owners, join your local dog club! If you join a dog club, yes, you will learn about the breed. Yes, you will learn about the Berner community. But I also learned something else a dog club can offer: a circle of friends who support you, who truly understand what owning a Berner means, who listen when you panic, celebrate or grieve, who ignore slobbered clothes and cars bristling with Berner fur, who share without hesitation....the list is as endless as you care to make it. Volunteer and your circle of friends will become ever-widening. Volunteer at a National Specialty and have the time of your life! Maria Crifasi happy member of the Potomac Valley BMD Club
