Our little story.

Title: From Dreams to Dogs: Why I’m Finally Starting My Blog

I've been dreaming of starting a blog for years now. Between the kids, the dogs, the never-ending appointments, and daily life that seems to race by, finding the time to sit down and write often felt impossible. I’m a busy wife, mom, and dog momma, and by the time the day winds down, I’m just about ready to collapse into bed, wondering where the time went. The days feel long, but somehow, the years fly by.

But after years of saying, "I'll start after this," I’ve finally realized: I need to start now.

Why I’m Passionate About Dogs (And Why I Want to Share It)

Being a mom is my top priority. There’s nothing more important to me than raising my three amazing kids and teaching them kindness, empathy, and to be good, strong people. They inspire me every day to be better. But—let’s be real—every mom needs a little me time too, right? And for me, that’s dog time. Whether it’s researching healthy treats, grooming tips, or the latest in dog health, I’m obsessed with learning about dogs. It's more than just having dogs—it's about their well-being, their happiness, and their role in our family.

Even my kids tease me about it. "Mom just needs her dog time... and coffee!"

But honestly, it’s so much more than just having dogs around. It's my passion. It's the heart of my day, whether I’m hanging out with them or learning how to keep them healthy and happy.

A Life Shaped by Dogs: From Childhood to Now

Growing up, dogs were always a part of my life, but I didn’t always have the understanding I do now. I remember our first rescue dog, Jessie. She was such a sweet girl, but sadly, she couldn’t stay with us—she was a runner, and we couldn’t keep her safe. I remember how devastated I was when we had to return her to the shelter. As a child, I didn’t understand it, but now, I can look back and see how it shaped my deep love for dogs and my desire to give every dog I have the best life possible.

Fast forward to when I was 14, and I finally got my dream dog: Hershy, a beautiful chocolate tri Australian Shepherd. Hershy was my best friend. We were inseparable, whether I was riding my horse or biking around town, he was by my side. But heartbreak struck when he died suddenly at just 18 months old. We learned from our vet that Hershy came from a puppy mill, and this was before we had the knowledge and resources to avoid that. My mom, bless her, took him to the vet for an autopsy—a rare and unheard-of step in our small town in Montana. I will forever be grateful that she did, as it gave me the answers I needed for closure.

Hershy’s loss was devastating, but it also shaped the way I approach breeding today. I vowed that I would never support puppy mills or breeding without careful thought and health testing. That’s why I am so passionate about ensuring that all of our dogs come from a place of health, love, and responsibility.

Health Testing and the Right Breeding Choices

In my journey as a breeder, I’ve always prioritized the health and well-being of my dogs. While AKC registration is important, it’s not enough on its own. I go beyond that, ensuring that every dog we breed undergoes comprehensive health testing. Even when tests come back clear, it’s crucial to evaluate each dog for other health concerns, like underbites, heart murmurs, and general health.

One example that stands out was when we had a beautiful dog that we had high hopes for breeding. After doing all the necessary testing, we discovered a major health issue—an underbite that would be passed down to her puppies. It was heartbreaking, but we made the decision to find her the perfect family instead of breeding her. The little boy who took her in is absolutely thrilled, and knowing she’s loved and happy makes it all worthwhile.

Why I Love Hypoallergenic Dogs: The Havapoo

Through all of my experiences with dogs, I’ve fallen head over heels for a particular breed: the Havapoo. These sweet, hypoallergenic dogs are a cross between the Havanese and the Mini Poodle, and they have the most loving, easygoing temperament. They’re perfect for families like ours with young kids, and the bonus? They don’t shed! I can’t tell you how much this has been a blessing—especially for our daughter, Maddie, who has severe dog allergies.

Before we found our first hypoallergenic dog, Maddie couldn’t be around most dogs. But with the Havapoo, she can cuddle, play, and enjoy every moment with her furry friend without worrying about allergies. And honestly, the fact that these dogs look like little teddy bears is just the cherry on top!

The Joy of Sharing My Journey

This blog is my chance to share what I’ve learned over the years. Whether it’s tips on health, grooming, training, or finding the perfect dog for your family, I’m here to offer insight from a mom and dog lover who has been through it all. I’ve spent countless hours watching grooming videos (trust me, my first attempts were something else!), researching dog food, and learning about health testing. It’s become my obsession, and I’m excited to share it with anyone who shares my love for dogs.

As I dive deeper into this journey, I hope to connect with others who are just as passionate about dogs as I am. Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or a lifelong enthusiast, there’s always something to learn and something new to share.

So here we go—finally. Welcome to my blog, and thanks for following along on this journey with me. I’m excited to share my story, my dogs, and everything I’ve learned along the way!