Background

My journey with Rhodesian Ridgebacks spans more than 40 years. While studying at the New York School of Dog Grooming, I attended the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, where I saw my first Rhodesian Ridgeback. I was immediately captivated by the three-time Westminster winner “Guy” (BISS Ch. Amberridge A Touch of Class). That moment sparked a lifelong passion for the breed.

Soon thereafter, I acquired my first Ridgeback from Guy’s breeder, Mary Reynolds of Amberridge Kennels. That decision marked the beginning of a deeply rewarding journey dedicated to preserving and promoting this remarkable breed.

My Journey

In 1986, I purchased Ch. Kwetu’s My Sweet Whitney, CDX. Whitney’s exceptional disposition and willingness to work opened the door for me to compete successfully in performance events as well as conformation. I am especially proud to have finished her championship, earned a Group placement, and placed in the Top 10 in Obedience. I remain deeply grateful to Barbara Sawyer Brown for her guidance, mentorship, and kindness to a novice owner-handler.

In 1993, I co-owned an outstanding breeding bitch known as “Lexus” (BIF DC Kimani’s Dream Maker, SC, ROM). Lexus was a beautiful mover with a lovely headpiece and an exceptional temperament. One of the highlights of my career was owner-handling Lexus to Winners Bitch and Best of Winners at the 1994 RRCUS National Specialty. Lexus produced three wonderful litters, and I am forever thankful to Alicia Hanna, who played a pivotal role in teaching me canine structure and the art and science of responsible breeding. Through her mentorship, I also had the opportunity to handle many of Kimani’s renowned, great-moving dogs.

In 2006, I acquired “Gwen” (CH Tahari’s Sweet Escape of LaFleur’s) from Frank and Judy DePaulo of Tahari Kennels. Gwen embodied everything I value in a Ridgeback—correct conformation, excellent temperament, and a strong pedigree. On Mother’s Day in 2010, Gwen produced a beautiful, uniform litter of eight puppies sired by “Mr. Jonesy” (Kimani’s Something to Talk About, ROM). The litter was notable for its consistency and outstanding temperaments.

Two puppies from this litter stand out in particular. Penelope (CH LaFleur’s Penny Lane) finished her championship from the classes with a Best of Breed win and a Group Fourth placement. Mack (CH LaFleur’s Big Mack Attack) also finished from the classes with a Best of Breed. Both dogs exhibited strong, flowing side gait and the stable, affectionate temperaments I consistently strive to produce.

In 2012, as a breeder-owner-handler, Mack and I achieved a career-defining win when he was awarded Best in Specialty Show at the RRCUS National Specialty in Orlando, Florida, under respected breeder-judge Barbara Rupert.

In recognition of my experience and contributions to the breed, I was honored to be selected to judge the Rhodesian Ridgeback National Specialty Sweepstakes in Portland, Oregon, in 2017. I also had the privilege of judging as a Top 25 National Specialty judge in 2015.