|
|
|
|
||
|
|
|
|
||
|
|
     |
…..our "Show Biz" recipient for A Lifetime Achievement Award is Sow's Ear Taltos- "Harry" - a very special terrier who has shown his many "star" qualities in conformation, hunting and racing as well that of an outstanding sire. Thus it is that, after much soul searching and endless days and nights the agonizing decision was made to offer Harry to a breeding home other than mine. This amazing little dog, whether in the field or in the ring, really has been the focal point of my breeding program for close to 5 years now, but I have finally reached the point where Harry is no longer capable of being a major player in my breeding decisions. Not only do I have two Harry daughters, but I also have retained stud rights on an outstanding Harry~Mascara son, Edgewater Snitch, who I feel is every bit as good, if not better, than his sire. Thus, when contacted by Chris of Foxglade and Melissa of Trademark, it was decided that an ideal new home for Harry would be with them. After all, as breeders, isn't our ultimate goal to improve with each succeeding generation?? And, if we are lucky enough to achieve that goal, why then should it be so difficult to detach oneself from the foundation stock? Still, it was a heart-wrenching decision, given how emotionally attached I have always been to this little white dog! But, given the fashion with how I keep my dogs, all of them living in the house with me as family members, and with no kennel situation, it obviously isn't possible for me to keep more than one intact male and still have life be manageable!!!! So, at this point in my breeding program, where I had the opportunity to acquire an outstanding young stud dog prospect, I needed to make a decision as to whether to go forward with another young promising male, or "breed myself into a corner" and keep Harry, who at this point I cannot use on only but one of my bitches. At some point we all have to look at the practical side of things!!! Harry is capable of reducing size and improving front ends and chest, Harry would be a godsend!!! He also is a fantastic dog in the field, and with two NHC's already to his credit, bronzing this dog should be a walk in the park. Certainly no worries about how this dog is going to hunt! Not to mention his pedigree, which is loaded with working dogs/bitches, not to mention a Bronze Medallion sire, and bloodlines that are all but just a distant memory and totally out of reach these days. Given Harry's track record as a sire, naturally, we have retained stud rights on Harry. Reiterating, this is without a doubt one of the hardest decisions I have had to make. Although, I write this with tears in my eyes as Harry has spent his life in a home environment, frequently sleeping on my bed or curled up in front of the TV, I am happy to know that he is in a home where he can and is continuing to do this. CONGRATULATIONS CHRIS AND MELISSA! YOU HAVE OBTAINED A FABULOUS LITTLE TERRIER!
|
|
|
