Shire Springs Kennels

Q. & A. with Theresa

• Why did you start breeding?

  Oddly enough, I bred my first litter to fulfill an agreement. Going back to me being a nerd, I threw myself into it and did hours of research to make sure I knew what I was doing. That is how I found Avidog. I then found I loved every bit of breeding and raising a litter. The animal husbandry science coupled with the pure joy of those little fuzzy bundles hooked me! Naturally, I stress and worry, but it is such a fulfilling journey!

• What makes your program special?

  I select a sire for the specific dam I breed for each litter I produce. It is important for me to match a boy that will compliment and/or improve the structure of my girl. No matter what, I look to ensure I breed dogs with excellent temperament. At a minimum, I require the health clearances recommended by the national club on both parents before breeding the pair. I also utilize DNA data in my decision-making process. Both sire and dam will have earned a conformation and/or a performance title before being bred. I truly enjoy watching the puppies grow into individuals. I pride myself in my ability to evaluate the pups and assign them to the right homes. But it is not only due to my skill with puppies. I spend a lot of time interviewing and communicating with the potential families so that I can match the right pup to them. I forge new relationships with each new family that go beyond delivering a puppy. Some have relied on me for training and health questions. Some have become very close friends. All are still contacted by me yearly. With me, this is a lifelong relationship.

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• What are the different breed coat colors in your program?

  Our Golden Retriever puppies include dark golden, golden, and light golden. Pembroke Welsh Corgi puppies include red and sable. Colors will vary depending on the parent dogs.

• Where do your breeding dogs live?

  They live in my home.