Off and running

And so it begins…

 …well, it really began 3.5 years ago, when I agreed to co-own Lexi May. She was a lovely puppy with a lot of potential for conformation and performance; a great addition to our pack. And, part of the deal was that at some point her breeder, Kathy, and I would co-breed a litter a puppies. 

This litter was conditional on a number of things happening.  She had to be shown and finish her conformation championship, to get external validation that she is a high-quality representative of the breed. Lexi may accomplished this goal, and earned her Grand Championship title, too. She also had to pass the health screens important for Cardigans, which she did – OFA Good hips and Normal elbows, PRA clear through her line, DM tested (she is a carrier, so we will breed to a clear dog), and eyes tested and passed by a veterinary ophthalmologist. And, she had to grow into an adult with a good temperament – something that we’d want to pass on in the breed – she passed that one with flying colors as a lovely, friendly, snuggly bitch with a great work ethic.

Now the path to puppies begins, as Lexi May has come into heat on the cycle we’re ready to breed. GULP. I feel ready but not prepared – not knowing what to expect even though I’ve done a bunch of “studying.”

 Of course, there’s still a long way between here and there, but the starting gates have opened and we’re off and running.

I’m planning to blog throughout the process – partly as a way for me to process things and remember things, and partly to help people understand what reputable, preservation-minded dog breeders do to maintain the health and integrity of the breed they love. I hope you enjoy the journey!