For nearly two years, I devoted myself to caring for my father, battling the challenges that came with his cancer. After his passing, the days grew increasingly difficult, and the months seemed to amplify the struggles. Daily tasks became daunting, and emotions swung between anger and sadness. Thoughts of my dad were accompanied by tears, making it challenging to navigate through the grief. It took six long months for me to realize I needed something to uplift my spirits, something just for me. The idea of welcoming an Australian Shepherd puppy, a dream I had nurtured for years, emerged as the perfect solution. It meant caring for another being, and in return, the puppy would need me.
And so, my quest began. I was determined to find a healthy dog from a reputable breeder to spare myself from potential heartache. That’s when I discovered Indy, a few days old at the time. The wait of nearly eight weeks to meet her felt slow, but the videos and pictures I received documented her growth, making the anticipation joyful. I finally brought her home just before New Year’s, and she seemed to intuitively understand how much I needed her. Indy brought joy back into my life, offering me a renewed sense of purpose and someone to care for.
Around the time Indy turned two months old, my daughter decided to get an Australian Shepherd boy who she named Gilbert. With her busy schedule as a teacher, I offered to help potty train and care for him until summer. Now, I had two adorable pups demanding my attention, and gradually, the tears over missing my dad lessened. As Gilbert grew and the time for him to leave approached, I felt it was the right moment to introduce another Australian Shepherd girl, fulfilling my initial plan. Mid-summer, I brought Skye into our home. She loved me unconditionally and I returned that love. My goal is clear – to breed Australian Shepherds and share the “healing power of a dog” with others. When I’m fortunate to have a litter of puppies, I have the privilege of showering each and every one of them with unconditional love until they find their forever homes. As a breeder, I aspire to raise “Awesome AKC Australian Shepherds” that will bring joy, healing, and love to the lives of their future owners.
