10 Questions ...

Profession: Retired, former owner of a boarding and grooming facility in the northern suburbs of New York City

Dog-sport involvement: First championship dog show was the Golden National Specialty in 1972. Breeder or co-breeder of more than 65 Golden Retriever champions and more than 55 PBGV champions. Started in Goldens in 1968 and PBGV in 1984. Also owned and showed Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Whippets, Greyhounds, English Springer Spaniels.

Hometown: Born in New York City

Astrological sign: Gemini

1. Do you have any dog-show superstitions?  

No, I have no dog-show superstitions.

2. TV-show guilty pleasure?

I love watching “Finding Your Roots” on PBS. Watching someone learn who their ancestors are, often for the first time, is fascinating.

3. If you were president of AKC for one day, what would you do?

I would cut back on the number of dog shows approved for the same day in a similar territory. We have diluted the quality of dogs at shows to such a degree that when judging Best of Breed in many breeds, I wonder who gave some of the champions I see their majors.

4. Most valued material possession?

At the moment, nothing beats family!

5. What is something no one would guess about you?

I hold a Master of Social Work degree and worked for nearly 30 years as a social worker, working primarily with kids.

6. Who would you compare yourself to?

Hmmm.

7. What are you “famous” for?

Joking around.

8. What website do you visit most often?

Facebook.

9. What was more memorable, your most satisfying win or disappointing defeat? And what was it?

Breeding a Best in Show dog and a National Specialty BOB winner. We were able to accomplish that goal in both Golden Retrievers and PBGV. Helping to found Take the Lead.

10. What do you wish someone would ask you?

“What DID you like about my dog?” I’m really tired of the negatives. It’s time we learn to look for the positive attributes in our dogs – and ourselves!