The Importance of Mentors
A shout out to mentors!
First, I owe so very much to Pam of Rockstar Dalmatians. Trusting me with amazing, magical, unicorn Random was the start of so much.
Next, she trusted me with Hazzard, which allowed me to start my conformation journey with an outstanding dog. Learning conformation is a ton more fun if you're doing a lot of winning!
At the height of covid, Pam had a litter that I desperately wanted a puppy from. She, her wonderful vet, and I worked together to navigate the nightmare of a closed border + new CFIA dog importation regulations. It seemed like every day I was asking Pam to jump through a new hoop, complete a new form, send off something else. Pam did it all calmly, kindly, and without complaint. She was as determined as I was that Peril should join my home.
Beyond trusting me with three amazing pieces of her kennel, genetics, and legacy, Pam has also been a huge source of support, knowledge, and guidance. She's a friend and one of our most enthusiastic cheerleaders!
Next, huge appreciation to Beth of Prestige Dalmatians for helping me choose the right puppy to potentially grow into a match for Hazzard. That's not the typical way to plan a future pairing, and Beth trusted me with a piece of her kennel and wonderful genetics in Danger.
Beth has never been further away than a phone call or email. Quick to help and support, and always proud of everything Danger and I do together!
Karen and Ross of Brightspot Dalmatians welcomed me to the breed from day one. Some of their program goes back to dogs from Pam/Rockstar and they’ve always treated me like part of the family.
They've been a source of support, generous with their time and knowledge, and have gone out of their way to mark and celebrate all our achievements.
I was honoured when Brightspot chose Hazzard for their litter with Lani and am so very pleased with the resulting gorgeous, happy, puppies. If I had space, I'd eagerly be taking a puppy home, but in a truly unselfish act on the part of Karen & Ross, I get to do the next best thing.
Karen and Ross are entrusting a friend of Bedlam with a beautiful show prospect, but instead of them co-owning this pup, I will be. This allows me to continue to build the BedlamAcres name, be part of the journey with Hazzard's second litter, and actively mentor and support someone new to the breed.
Pam, Beth, Karen, and Ross have not only supported and believed in me, they've also demonstrated good sportsmanship and modeled how to bring new people into this amazing breed.
