We got our very first berner from Cathy Burlile, who trusted as newbies to the breed, to purchase a show quality male from her. That was 10 years ago this August. Not quite one year later, she trusted us to take Codi's sister Shelby, who had canine hip dysplasia after she had a TPO, triple pelvic osteotomy.
Sometimes, when I'm contacted by people I don't really know looking for show puppies, I think back to the chance given us. Out of 3 litters, I have only sold 2 potential show puppies to other people. For the most part, I sell my puppies as companions because selling pups as potential show is pretty much an iffy propostion. Actually, I'm just a coward when it comes to selling my pups! If I don't know someone, then I pretty much aren't going to sell them a show puppy. While as a breeder I am looking to do my part to improve the breed, what I am looking for above all else is loving homes for my babies. Not that show homes aren't loving homes, they can be just as loving as pet homes, or more so! Cathy, I don't know how you had the courage to sell to us, but I am forever grateful! :) I feel the same way about Bobbie Hefner, who trusted us with a potential show male, our Strykker, Kathy Deyo, who trusted us with a potential show male puppy, our Garth, who ended up being a Versitility Dog, and Margie Reho, who trusted us with Star, our foundation bitch. Without the trust and mentorship of all those breeders, I wouldn't be a breeder today. Our beloved Shelby and Codi are over the Rainbow now, but I will always be grateful that Cathy gave us that first chance as total newcomers to the breed, that started us on our way, and to Ruth Reynolds, Bobbie, Kathy, Margie, too for all their help and trust. Sue G. and the West Wynd gang Chino Valley, AZ
