ABOUT US
So this is the page where I tell you about myself (and family)! So here goes...
I have always had a passion for animals.
And it all started with one dachshund - Holly.
From this moment, I have not looked back. The household quickly grew with more dachshunds and I wouldn't have had it any other way.
Wanting to learn more, and help others in the breed, I joined a number of clubs for Dachshunds. (Most of the 17 breed clubs), I become a committee member, forum owner, News letter editor and much more. I can certainly say my life was ruled by dogs. I was lucky enough to start my judging path through the breed which has only grown and developed over time.
It is safe to say that the Dachshunds helped fuel the dog obsession getting me involved in flyball, tacking, agility, judging, showing, cani-x, racing and many other sports. If we could take part, we would give it a go and what fun we had.
Socks soon joined us and lead us to further adventures, moving house(s), jobs, breeds and into the unknown.
Getting more involved (if that is even possible!) in dogs, while working at the UK Kennel Club, gave me access to the Health and Breeders teams who are a wealth of knowledge. Archives full of dog breeds since the beginning of records. It was a wonderful time, I will never forget.
I've also attended (and will continue to attend) seminars and training sessions. Is a great way to help further understanding and new developments with in research, DNA, dog behaviour & breeding. I am a firm believer that you can never stop learning.
Being part of clubs over the years, I've been grateful for the opportunities to serve as a committee member, forum and information owner, event organiser, newsletter editor, PR rep, Breed health co-ordinator, show manager and many more. It is a small way to give back to the clubs who put on so many great events year after year, and lead the way with health and development within breeds. Without these committees the clubs would not run. So I would encourage anyone interested to join a club and offer your assistance, every little helps.
On of the biggest achievements has been part of a club who won best open show at the Pawscars, after almost folding as a club! A truly amazing night. Way to go team!
To gain a better understanding about the function / health and development of breeds, I judge a range of different breeds throughout the hound and gundog groups. Being lucky enough to judge both in the UK and Europe.
I hope to continue judging for many years to come yet!
I'm proud of my dogs and all we have achieved here at Variare.
- A number of Variare dogs have been involved as Pets as Therapy or Pets Nationwide dogs. (Sock's being the first Silken in the UK be part of therapy dogs!) The dogs love visiting people, even if it is just for the custard creams!
- Taking part and helping the breeds at Discover Dogs, fairs, events etc. Helping the "general public" learn about the breed, show off their great characters and of course enjoy a belly rub or two.
- Take part in fairs for the Kennel Club, Breed Clubs and displays. What better way to show off your dogs to a wider audience.
- Cani-X. 16 miles with a dachshund was some achievement (for me not the dog!)
- Agility awards
- Working Tests
to name just a few things we have been involved in!
Over the years I have been blackmailed into helping out and handling dogs from a variety of breeds. I've been so grateful to all those who have trusted me with their dog(s). I've been so humbled to win various classes, Best Puppies, Best Opposite Sex, Best of Breed, BIS etc, countless challenge certificates, reserve challenge certificates and group placings. I count myself very lucky to have such trust from owners & friends.
I hope to continue to help handle dogs as long as I am able to.
As a breeder, I believe that quality is better than quantity. I don't breed often, but any litters are always planned out in-advance following extensive research, knowledge and development. I'm always happy to help and support those interested, and happy to work with people to develop and grow their dogs.
Teamwork is dreamwork!
