Interview with Breeder/Owner Handler Mara Flood – Purebred Collie and Australian Cattle Dog Breeds
In the late 1980s, my older sisters were active breeder/owner-handlers. My first AKC champion, in 1994, was an Australian Cattle Dog.
My first Collie was acquired from Canada in 2010.
I have been involved in competitive horses and dog sports since I was 12 years old, but it wasn’t until the early 2000s that I became solely dedicated to AKC Conformation dog sports.
I have been an Owner Handler for 20-plus years and a breeder for 12-plus years.
Yes, I attend handling classes as often as our show schedule allows. My daughter and I have attended several handling seminars. They were invaluable to us both, especially to my daughter—a new Junior Handler.
I do not compete in NOHS.
Both are VERY important to me.
My sisters, Debra Corr of DJs Chinese Shar-Pei and Zaneta Pronsky of A Storm Alaskan Malamutes, have been my mentors as an Owner Handler and a Breeder. In my breed, both Rose Robischon of Galatean Collies and Candace Ardizzone of Travler Collies have been mentors.
The Breeder is very important. I would like to see more Bred-By Groups offered at shows, and more shows offering a Best Bred-By out of all classes, including BOV/BOB.
My goals are to produce and present the best Collie I can; to keep improving my breeding program; and to continue to learn from other breeders, handlers, and judges alike.
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