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I am also the owner of Nightwatch Scottish Deerhounds, and have been involved with dogs on a professional level for over 35 years. I have been a 'dog person', for too long to say out loud. I've been a professional groomer, trainer, and a veterinarian assistant. I have shown and handled (on an amateur status) my own dogs and others. I also do rescue work. I'm just dog nuts.
I'm also a wife and mom. Allen (the husband) and I have two great girls. Both grown and gone...but not too far. Our oldest is Kerensa Gray, and she's a wonderful singer/songwriter. We're pleased to report that she recently won the prestigious 'Billie Holiday' contest in Baltimore. My youngest daughter, Devi, is the mother of our three grandsons...the treasures of our lives, each one amazingly handsome and brilliant! (My side of the family, ahem) Our first grandson, Raen, is one of the absolute delights of our lives, and a natural athelete! While he is good at basketball and baseball, he's a dynamo at football. Our second grandson, Draesan, also plays the different sports, but he's memaw's 'dog buddy'...he has a real touch with the animals, and is quite the artist. Our third grandson, Zane, is a little tank, just starting peewee football this year, and tough as nails. He's bright and charming, and his dimples get him out of a lot of trouble! They are here with us much of the time, which is wonderful for the dogs, (and even the cats) and so, being devoted and besotted grandparents...we strive even harder to devote serious effort and care in our search for good temperament. It is a real priority.
My friend Barbara brought me my first Aussie from Bonnie Cain of Agape Kennels in NY, many years ago. It was love at first sight! Hollyberry, a gorgeous black tri female, took my heart by storm, and from that time on I began to seriously study and research the breed. It helped that I was already familiar with the dog fancy. I knew which directions to go and what questions to ask. And the lovely people in the Aussie fancy were helpful beyond belief. Still, it took several years before I was sure of what path I wanted to take. After much research, and a few excursions and trials into this line and that, we have developed a line based on SVCH WTCH AKC/ASKA CH GITALONG'S HALF COCKED, UD...and lines that compliment and enhance this incredible dog. We are happy with the incredible brains, willingness and style we are getting, and love the temperament. We are pleased with the overall health and solidness we are seeing...it has consistently produced dogs that are well rounded, and eager to try whatever is asked of them. These just seem to be dogs that are what they ought to be.
The last few years I've found my life redirected. I have been in school full time, finishing an Associates degree in Technical Sciences, and my Bachelor of Science degree. I am now pursuing my Masters in Divinity at United Theological Seminary. So....when you add that to the 'meema' job, my job as Pastor of a UMC church, and the responsibilities that come with those bits of life that always surprise us...I have been forced to accept that I can no longer do everything I used to do with the dogs. So I haven't had a litter for some time, and don't know what the future holds there. I've also quit actively showing and training, although I still try to keep a wee hand in with my Deerhounds very occasionally, as they are a much lower maintenance breed.
Still...look for me around the show and agility rings, because when my life gives me a break now and then, I'll try to be there watching, and supporting my friends!
Send email to Sandy if you like.