In 1996, I welcomed my very first wolfhound. I called him Sebastian. He wasn't a show dog — just our beloved family pet — and I was fortunate to have him by my side for nine wonderful years. He was the beginning of a love for this breed that has never faded.
My husband and I welcomed two into our home: Barden, my first, and Oola, who joined us soon after. It took nearly a year to find Barden — I brought him home from a breeder in Montana, and it was love at first sight. Oola came into our lives about three months later, from a breeder in Minnesota, and she was an absolute sweetheart. I loved them both dearly, though our time with them was far too short. Barden passed away after only five short years, and Oola left us at the age of seven. They remain close to our hearts, and their spirit lives on in the two who have since joined our family: our sire, Grá, and our dam, Coolea.
Eventually, I worked up the courage to start showing them, nerves and all. At our very first show, Barden took first place and Oola took second — not bad for a beginner who had no idea what she was doing! I learned so much that day. A seasoned handler kindly took me under her wing and showed me the ropes, and everyone in the community was warm and welcoming. I kept showing, and Barden and Oola kept winning — Barden with firsts, Oola close behind with seconds. I can honestly say the credit belongs to them; they simply seemed born for the ring. We've continued that tradition with Coolea, who has since brought home two Best in Show ribbons of her own. Still, I spent countless hours studying nutrition and training, following what other breeders were doing, and talking with breeders and owners alike. Pedigree databases, the AKC, and the IWCA all became regular parts of my world. At this point in my life, being retired, I feel it's truly my calling — and I'm grateful for the time I get to spend with Grá and Coolea every day. We live on five acres, giving them plenty of room to run and play, and we take long walks together whenever the weather is kind.
My goal has always been simple: to raise healthy, beautiful dogs as close to the breed standard as possible, striving for longevity, showering them with love, and honoring the courage and gentleness of a breed once cherished by kings and legends of the past.