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About Dark Star
Dark Star Kennel is located in upstate New York between Rochester
and Buffalo. Shelties light up my life along with
my Arabian horse Legend, and his pal Shorty, the mini-burro.
I should also mention the kennel clowns, Magnolia, my Nigerian
Dwarf goat and Father Murphy, my Persian cat.
Dogs and horses have tugged at my heart for as long as I can
remember. Ever since I was a little girl the only real passion
in my life has been my connection with animals. My parents
weren't real animal lovers so my dream had to wait until I
was much older.
Like many "dog" people, I started out training
horses. In 1978 I enrolled in a dog obedience course with my Border
Collie, Shannon. She made my initial obedience
experience so much fun I wanted to learn more. My first
conformation dogs were two Belgian Sheepdogs, hence the kennel
name Dark Star. I discovered the Shetland Sheepdog in 1979 and immediately
fell in love. I was hooked on this beautiful, lovable,
versatile breed . I began handling for friends in 1982 then for
clients shortly thereafter and by 1991 I was handling
professionally full time.
I have been a 4-H dog leader in Genesee County for 19
years and my 4-H kids are some of the best in the state. I conduct weekly
show handling/socialization and obedience classes in Batavia,
NY. Along with the training, conditioning, and grooming of
show dogs I also offer breeding and whelping services.
I usually have a litter or two of Sheltie puppies each year, with occasional
show or obedience/agility prospects available to special homes. I
strive to breed only wonderful, happy, healthy companions to
compliment your family, therefore, I do all genetic testing
and all puppies leave with eye checks, health certificates and
guarantees against possible hereditary defects.
I have met some lovely people on my journey through the dog
world and I have had the privilege of seeing many ring
legends that most people only read about in books. I have
made many wonderful friends through the years and really
cherish my dog show family. My helper
"angels" along the way have been awesome. I could not
have done any of this without you. You know who you are.
Thank you ALL so very much!
I hope you enjoy your visit to my site and remember this...Reach for
the stars - you might just catch one!
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