Always a dog lover, I joined our community's 4-H dog club in 1980 with our family's Golden Retriever. The club introduced me to AKC junior showmanship, obedience and conformation. Lucky
for me, local breeders, veterinarians and trainers took me under their wings, most notably Berna Welch of Pebwin Golden Retrievers, my 4-H club leader Rita LaPointe and Rose Chandless of Winslow Shetland Sheepdogs. They, and many other generous friends
and mentors, continue to guide me in better understanding, training and caring for our beloved dogs. I breed an occasional litter using the Cressida prefix and usually owner handle all of my dogs. For the past several years, I've been judging Sweepstakes
classes for Golden Retriever specialties. Professionally, I managed animal shelters for the Massachusetts SPCA for 18 years and currently work part time at a veterinary hospital.