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Heathview Irish Wolfhounds Kennel - Welcome to Heathview Kennel - Heathview Kennel, Irish Wolfhound, reputable, ethical, breeder, champion, Edmonton, Ardrossan, Alberta, Canada, puppies, gentle giants, companion dogs, dogs, pure breeds, Laurie Rutherford, Alberta Kennel Club, dog breeders,
Description
Heathview Kennel was established in 1992. Ian admired the breed for thirty years andwas waiting for the right opportunity to own one. Once Ian and Laurie married, had four children and Laurie bought a Lhasa Apso, Ian felt it was his turn. In 1988, the Rutherfords went to the Edmonton Kennel Club Fall show and talked to many people. With the links they made, they contacted Karlyn Allward at Wolfdane Kennel and Kathleen was delivered to them by Janet Mador in November. The breeder’s last words were “she wanted Kate shown” and the Rutherfords took that to heart.
Kate was their “learning dog.” They started Confirmation classes under Doug Smith at NACA. He was so enamored by the breed, he took over as handler and that was the start of their friendship of 14 years. Laurie bought many books on the breed to help her learn and interpret the breed standard. The biggest help for her was speaking to other wolfhound breeders found both locally and internationally and watching the dogs in the ring. They felt ready to set up Heathview Kennel as their home for this gentle giant in 1992.
Breeding Irish Wolfhounds requires a commitment to protect the breed standard. A breeder should adhere to ethical breeding practices in order to preserve type. This requires honesty, integrity and a strong knowledge base. Having the privilege of finding mentors who have provided guidance and the benefit of years of experience has helped Ian and Laurie immensely.
