Patty Fanelli
1. I live on the sunrise side of the mountains in central Virginia. I got my first show dog in 1979, a year after graduating from college. I bred my first litter around 1982, establishing Kinloch Irish Setters, and almost 70 champions later, I am still going strong.
2. While many other things make up breed type, the elegance, flashy red coat, rollicking temperament, and sheer beauty of the breed make the Irish Setter uniquely identifiable.
3. Like me, most reputable breeders have a list of homes waiting for puppies. Unfortunately, the “adopt, don’t shop” promotion makes some feel guilty about buying a purebred dog, which is sad.
4. I think the availability of progesterone testing and frozen or fresh-chilled semen is a huge advantage for us now. And social media has increased communication—no more break-the-bank phone bills!
5. I live in a very rural community that considers a “mountain cur” to be a purebred dog, so I am not sure how to answer this one!
6. My main concern about the sport is the number of breeders and owner handlers aging out without many new people coming in to fill the gap. When I started, it took 25 bitches here for three points. Now it takes six and we still can’t get majors, including at my club’s three specialties last year.
7. I do think that the National Owner-Handled Series (NOHS) and Grand Champion additions serve a purpose for those who enjoy showing their dog, and who also enjoy continuing to show their finished dog but not mount a big campaign. The 4-6 Month Beginner Puppy Competition (BPUP) has taken the place of matches, which there are so few of now, but the entry fees are often prohibitive.
