It's hard for me to remember back to a time when my life was not shared with Irish Setters, Dachshunds, or both. My first Irish was given to me in 1968 and in 1970 my father added a mini smooth dachshund to our family. It wasn't until 1988 that I accidentally happened onto my first dog show. My husband and I were staying at the McCormack Hotel in Chicago and luckily it was the same weekend as the International Dog Show. I was fortunate enough to see multi BIS/National Specialty winner Ch. Scarlly's Red Hot, "Smokey". A handsome Irish Setter whose regal looks, dynamic personality and explosive sidegait, captivated me.

Five years later, after the death of my pet bitch, I contacted his breeder, Penny Nunnally. She sent me a young male that she had co-bred with June Fetters, Glenariff Irish Setters. My journey into the conformation aspect of dogs had begun. Under the guidance of Debbie Melgree, "Riley" Ch Scarlly's Tonites the Knight became our first champion. Pictured right.

Over the next three years I purchased 3 bitches. None of them materialized into what I deemed good enough to be my foundation bitch. In 1996, Shirlee Murray offered me a co-ownership on a bitch who had the type and pedigree I wanted. Ch Kennlee In A Heartbeat, "Cando" went onto win multiple BISS and groups. In 1997 she whelped our first litter of Irish. Pictured left.

Like me, my husband had owned a mini smooth before our marriage. He was persistent in adding a dachshund to our family. We had admired the standard longs we had seen traveling with Debbie Melgreen. We were impressed with their wonderful dispositions and their compatibility with the Irish. My friend June Fetters, who also had Irish, had purchased two standard longs from Cheryl Sims. I called Cheryle and in 1999 we added our first show Dachshund, Dachshire Last Laugh SL. "Phoebe" finished at 18 months, with four majors (two specialty). A product of two proven producers, Ch Windsong Caution to the Wind ROMO  and Ch. Boondox Umbra Au Liebe JE ROMO. Phoebe has produced two lovely litters and I have just applied for her ROMX.

Currently I am only showing and breeding Standard Longhaired Dachshunds. My goal is to continue to produce healthy companions with the same sweet, loving temperaments that attracted me to this breed. At the same time hoping for an occasional puppy who can successfully compete at specialties, and in turn will produce the traits that I value.

At this time I would like to extend my appreciation to everyone who has helped make all our accomplishments in dogs possible. By campaigning our dogs or allowing us to use your studs, you have been a vital key to our success. More importantly, without your support and friendships none of it would have been nearly as enjoyable. Thank you!

Show Dog Designs-2007