kennismaking

March 2002.

Hello! May we introduce ourselves? We are Frans Bierings and Ine Kuys, lovers of dogs, and of Shelties in particular.

The first dog to arrive in our house, quite some time ago, was a dark brown miniature poodle. In fact, he was given to us as a wedding present. Soon enough he was joined by a poodle friend of our own choice. For more than a decade the duo meant a great deal of joy and pleasure to us.

By the time we had to take leave of these two companions our interest in and love for dogs had been firmly established. Of all dogs Shetland sheepdogs seemed bound to become our favourite breed, in view of such features as watchful, kind, intelligent, lively, affectionate, and charming.

In 1982 our first sheltie, Deilmacare's DUBHE, became part of our family. She was to stay with us for fourteen lovely years. Towards the end of her life Dubhe played her role in bringing up our second sheltie, TARI of Wimtine's Home. We were now really hooked on shelties. Soon Tari was joined by Tanja-BAILE de Caumerhof; the following year INKY of Marmorea's Shelter, was added to the pack.In July 1999 we boasted our first litter: Tari gave birth to three puppies. Not only were they ravishing, the timing of the whelping was also immaculate. On her very wedding day, our daughter saw her heart's desire -to become the owner of a child from Tari-, come true. The newly-weds took their pick of Tari's puppies as their wedding present, starting their married live as pet-owners as we once did.

After this blissful event we decided to take a basic training in Cynology and Dog-breeding (KK1). We were taught a great many useful things which enable us to go on with greater proficiency and insight. In addition, we also benefit greatly from the help and advice, always so willingly given by Addie and Thea, a couple of sheltie-lovers running the Marmorea's Shelter.

Each and every day our dogs make us feel rich. We see them enjoy our long walks in the nature areas in the neighbourhood and excelling in agility classes. Last but not least, we are happy to know that the puppies born in our kennel are enriching the lives of newly-made sheltie-friends.