Dearest Listers, As an international member of this list, my perspective is sometimes somewhat different - not often but sometimes. Our love of Berners has gathered us here - many of us have our hands full just keeping the Berner(s) in our homes happy and healthy, some of us have progressed beyond our own hearth in our efforts for the welfare of Berners in general.
I actually read every post, even the ones about "meet us at such and such a park next Saturday for a hotdog/parade/walk/clinic". The combined energy of this list is astounding as well as impressive - and the sharing of our Berner-joys, our Berner-concerns and our Berner-issues gives momentum to new ideas, inspiration and education beyond this forum around the globe. The Lancaster County discussion has been very educational for this Berner lover sitting on the other side of the world - though I was aware of the Amish and their puppy mills, I wasn't as informed of the situation as I am now. Even overseas breeders love and care about the dogs they produce. Some of them read this list or know people that do. That membership in the BMDCA doesn't necessarily guarantee that a uniform code of ethics is adhered to, is also very good information for people not close enough to experience goings-on at a national level. The Lancaster County posts have all made very good points as is often the case when people on this list disagree. Although I knew prong/pinch/shock collars are illegal in this country, I learned today that there are other countries where they are not considered acceptable animal practice. I'm glad Marion had the time to share that with us. Reading about the personal stories of Choupette and her family of heroes in France/Jeddah, Stevie's and Karen's accident and miraculous recovery, all the new Berner owners with their fears and struggles teach me courage, patience and hope. People sharing their sorrow and confusion when losing a cherished Berner touch me deeply. Hopefully, anyone having the interest to make the effort to join a list such as this one, is also willing to listen carefully to all the issues and information discussed - from all points of view and with empathy. I certainly hope to be able to read in future about anything and everything that goes on in the dog world of Berner-listers, however controversial or mundane. Hugs to all, and I really mean it Cecilia Ståhl & Griffin Stockholm Sweden
