Gleanntan Skye Terriers

News - 2008

December 27 - Christmas

We hope that you had a most enjoyable Christmas this year and we wish you all the best in 2009. Maida and I traveled to Rhode Island for the holiday. A few of the Skyes also made the trip, including Tony (Ch. Finnsky Gladiator), Bea (Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!) and two of the pups, Gus (Gleanntan Wonderful Wizard Of Oz) and Elphie (Gleanntan Defying Gravity). Our time spent with family and friends was great fun and the pups, Gus and Elphie, had numerous opportunities for socialization. Needless to say, they were a big hit with our two nieces. We even managed a brief trip to Beavertail on the island of Jamestown. This picturesque peninsula is at the southern tip of Jamestown, essentially dividing the West Passage and the East Passage of Narragansett Bay. Below are a few photos of the Beavertail visit, including a "stock" aerial photo to give you a sense of where we were. There is also a photo of our two nieces holding Gus and Elphie.

December 19 - New Tony x Glinda puppy photos - 13 weeks of age

December 14 - Back-to-back Group 3 placements for Tony

Maida and I were at the Lehigh Valley Kennel Club and the Delaware Water Gap Kennel Club shows this past weekend. The shows are held on the campus of Lehigh University and they are very well run by the show-giving clubs. The club members are nice folks who are committed to putting on the best shows possible. With the holiday season upon us, there is always a spirit of fellowship among the exhibitors. One of the traditions of the shows is that many exhibitors bring homemade cookies.

We had two of our Skyes entered - Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" entered in Best of Breed and his daughter Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" (x Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!) entered in the Bred by Exhibitor bitch class. Mackenzie showed nicely both days. Her sire took Best of Breed on Saturday under judge Mrs. Karen C. Wilson and on Sunday under judge Mrs. Barbara Dempsey Alderman.

This busy show weekend offered a few choices for competition in Cleveland, Ohio and at the AKC Eukanuba Invitational in Long Beach, California. Even with these two large shows drawing big entries, the competition in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania was quite strong in the groups. In the terrier group, there were a number of #1 ranked dogs and Montgomery Best of Breed winners. As always, the end-of-year competition in the groups intensifies.

We were delighted with Tony's nice showing in the group each day. On Saturday, he earned a Group 3 under judge Mr. Norman L. Patton and on Sunday, he earned another Group 3 under judge Mrs. Karen C. Wilson.

December 7 - Winston-Salem Shows

Maida and I were at the two Forsyth Kennel Club shows in Winston-Salem, North Carolina this past weekend. We had an enjoyable couple of days with our friends Joe and Ginger Lindsey and Gina Lindsey.

There were four Skyes entered both days. In the Bred by Exhibitor bitch class, there was Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" and a 3.5 year old bitch from North Carolina. In the Open bitch class was Gleanntan Grand Duchess - "Sadie" owned and shown by Gina Lindsey. The single special was our Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony".

On Saturday, under judge Mrs. Glenda P. Dawkins, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" took Best of Breed and then went on to a Terrier Group 3. Tony's daughter (out of Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!), Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" took Winners Bitch/Best of Opposite Sex.

On Sunday, under judge Mr. Dennis J. Kniola, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" took Best of Breed. Tony's daughter, Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" again took Winners Bitch/Best of Opposite Sex.

In just six shows, Mackenzie has earned Winners Bitch four times for a 3-point major and a total of 9 points towards her championship.

December 1 - Puppy Socialization Club

The weekend following the Thanksgiving holiday found Maida and I at home with a break from the shows. We had a most enjoyable visit from our friends Susan, Nate, Isaac and Mackenzie. Since Glinda's pups were born in September, Isaac and Mackenzie have been looking forward to visiting. Susan, Nate, Isaac and Mackenzie took turns holding each of the four pups and the pups reveled in the extra attention. The pups also enjoyed playing with their new toys. Isaac and Mackenzie created a list of about 60 potential names for the pups. Here are a few photos from the visit.

November 24 - Kennel Club of Philadelphia - The National Dog Show

Maida and I were at the Kennel Club of Philadelphia shows this past weekend. This year, the show was held at the huge Greater Reading Expo Center. The Saturday show is also know as The National Dog Show which is dubbed as the nation's most widely viewed dog show. Broadcast on Thanksgiving Day, immediately following the Macy's Parade, NBC states that this dog show reaches 20 million viewers.

Maida and I entered our Special, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" who we have been actively showing this year. I had considered entering one or more of Tony's offspring, most notably his beautiful daughter, Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie". But, ultimately we decided to limit our entry to Tony to focus on him, particularly since this was a benched show at a site we were not familiar with.

Needless to say, the National Dog Show has become an outstanding public relations event for purebred dogs. The Reading newspaper stated that the number of spectators on Saturday exceeded 5,000! Many of the people who visited our area indicated that they have watched various dog shows on TV but this was their first show in person.

On Saturday, the terrier group was the first group at 1 p.m. Commentator, Wayne Cavanaugh, described each breed and, in describing the Skye, he finished by saying, "They are twice as long as they are tall. Check it out!" Well sure enough, after the group judging, we were back at the benching area and quite a number of people visited our setup. Many observed Tony and said, "This is the dog that is twice as long as it is tall." One couple and their young children came to our setup and commented on how much they loved seeing the Skye gaiting with his long, flowing coat. They were completely enthralled by the breed and said that they had to come "backstage" and meet Tony.

For about three hours after the group judging was over, Tony was "available" to meet new people and build goodwill for the breed. Tony very politely sat on the grooming table and gave gentle kisses to people of all ages. At one point, a group of children came up to the table and standing face-to-face with Tony on the table, one by one received kisses. Waiting patiently behind the kids was an older woman who was greatly amused by what she saw. Smiling from ear to ear, as the kids moved on she stepped up for her kiss. Tony was only too happy to oblige!

November 24 - Farewell Ch. Gleanntan Gee Whiz - "Julie"

Last week, another one of Donna's beloved Skye girls joined her in Heaven with the passing of Ch. Gleanntan Gee Whiz - "Julie". Julie was owned and much loved by Ernie and Jan Kowalec of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Julie was the dam of six champions under the Gleanntan prefix and she was the littermate to Ch. Gleanntan Gee Whillikers - "Michael". Julie made many friends for the breed in Calgary with her bright and happy personality.

November 17 - New photo of Tony

November 15 - Weekend at home

Maida and I are "resting" at home this weekend after four weekends in a row of shows. It certainly is fun to be able to spend more time with Glinda and her pups - now 7 weeks old.

We recently were saddened to learn that Norwegian Elkhound breeder/exhibitors, Skip and Karen Weir, were tragically killed in an automobile accident in Nebraska while driving home to Canton, Ohio. They were returning home from shows in Northern California. Skip and Karen were close friends of Roxan Rohrich and we got to know them through Roxan. Skip and Karen were wonderful dog people and we always enjoying setting up with them at shows.

November 9 - Tony earns a Group 1 in Greensboro, NC

Maida and I were in Greensboro, North Carolina this past weekend for the Furniture City Kennel Club shows. We had a fun time visiting with our friends, Joe and Ginger Lindsey, their daughter Gina Lindsey, and Shirley Deasy.

There were four Skyes entered both days. In the Bred by Exhibitor bitch class, there was Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" and a pretty bitch from North Carolina. In the Open bitch class was Gleanntan Grand Duchess - "Sadie" owned and shown by Gina Lindsey.

On Saturday, under judge Richard William Powell, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" took Best of Breed and his daughter, Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" took Reserve Winners Bitch. In the terrier group, Tony made the cut.

On Sunday, under judge Dawn Vick Hansen, Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" took Winners Bitch from the Bred by Exhibitor class and she was Best of Opposite Sex. In just four shows, Mackenzie has earned a major and a total of 5 points. We could not be happier with how she has matured.

Mackenzie's sire, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" took Best of Breed and he went on to a Group 1. We were delighted with Tony's showing in a very nice lineup of terriers. The Best in Show ring was quite a thrill with a number of multiple Best in Show winners in the lineup.

November 2

Maida and I were at the Back Mountain Kennel Club shows this past weekend, driving back and forth each day. We had Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" entered as well as his son, Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick". These shows are another favorite of the fall season, in part, because of the pretty drive to the Bloomsburg Fairgrounds. Much of the route follows the picturesque Susquehanna River which is always scenic, even more so with the fall foliage. As we approach the end of the year, the intensity in the groups is increasing and those four placements are becoming even more coveted. These relatively small 800 dog shows had a deep field of high quality terriers in the group. I was pleased with how Tony showed in the group both days and he represented the breed well.

Below is a new photo of Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick".

October 29 - More Montgomery Photos

I am continuing to review the hundreds of wonderful photos received on CDs from our friend Susan Etter. The photos below were taken by Susan's nephew, Isaac, and niece, Mackenzie. I will share them on this page and then eventually move them to their own dedicated page.

October 27 - Middleburg KC Weekend - New Champion Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper"

Maida and I were at the Middleburg Kennel Club shows this past weekend in Leesburg, Virginia, driving back and forth each day. Also entered this weekend were Travis Wright and "Cooper" and Kate Kozeliski and "Bailey". It was a fun weekend of visiting with friends and celebrating nice successes for our Skyes.

The weather on Saturday was quite a challenge for one of the final outdoor shows of the season. Heavy rain, wind and an occasional rumble of thunder preceded our time in the ring and resumed again after the judging. Thankfully, during the Skye judging, the rain lightened just a bit.

The Skye entry on Saturday was 2-4-1-0 and the judge was Mrs. Helen Lee James. In dogs, Winners Dog was awarded to Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper" owned and handled by Travis S. Wright. Reserve Winners Dog went to Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick" owned by Lynn and Gary Wolf and shown from the Bred by Exhibitor class by Michael Pesare.

There was an entry of four bitches. Two of the four were littermates Gleanntan Gale's Grace - "Bailey" shown in the Open class by owner Kate Kozeliski and Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" making her ring debut in the Bred by Exhibitor class. The other two bitches were very pretty, mature entries. Winners Bitch for a 3-point major from the Bred by Exhibitor class went to Gleanntan Glorious Legacy "Mackenzie". Mackenzie also took Best of Opposite Sex to her sire.

Best of Breed went to our special, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" - bred by Thea and Rolf Dahlbom, Kennel Finnsky, owned by Gleanntan Kennels, Reg. and owner/handled by Michael Pesare. Also, Best of Winners was awarded to Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper" giving him his final major and points needed for his AKC Championship. See Cooper's page.

In the group competition, Tony showed beautifully and earned a Group 4. Group 1 went to the Montgomery County KC-winning Sealy and Group 3 went to the #1 Kerry in the U.S.

As challenging as the weather was on Saturday, it was picture perfect on Sunday with bright sunshine, temps in the 60s, low humidity and no wind. The entry (3-4-1-0) was about the same as Saturday with the addition of one class dog not of our breeding and with Cooper absent. The judge was Mr. D. Roy Holloway.

Winners Dog from the Bred by Exhibitor class was Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick" owned by Lynn and Gary Wolf and Gleanntan and owner/handled by Michael Pesare. Reserve Winners Bitch went to Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" also from the Bred by class, breeder/owner handled by Michael Pesare.

Best of Breed was Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony". In a competitive terrier group, Tony was a happy showman and he took a Group 3 - Group 1 going to the Sealy and Group 2 going to the #1 Airedale in the U.S.

October 20 - Upper Potomac Valley KC

Maida and I were at the Upper Potomac Valley Kennel Club shows this past weekend. We have been coming to these shows just about every year since 1997 and always enjoy the beautiful drive across the state of Maryland. By this time of the year, the foliage is approaching peak color.

We also have fond memories of special wins here with beloved Skyes who are no longer with us. At these shows in 1999, I showed 22-month old Gleanntan Greatxplorer - "Peter" (AM, CAN, INT, FIN, DK, EST CH WW-96 ESTW-95 Mariquita Flashxclusive x Ch. Gleanntan Great Day O'Pataway) in his very first shows. Peter had breed type that was breathtaking and it was a pleasure to work with him. On one of the days that weekend, Peter took Best of Breed from the classes and went on to a Group 2 under respected judge Steve Shaw, who has since passed away. In 2000, our bitch, Am. & Finnish Ch. Skyelight Afrodite - "Mindy" (INT, FIN, DK CH EUW-93 Glenbrittle Heights' Luxury Liner x INT, FIN, DK, EST CH ESTW-93 Finnsky Madonna) won the terrier group as a veteran. In 2002, our beloved "Emily" - Ch. Gleanntan Grandxpose, who was the littermate to Greatxplorer, won the terrier group at this show.

This year, the entry was small, consisting of Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick" and his sire, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony". Both dogs showed nicely and Tony represented the breed well in the group each day. We also had plenty of opportunities to practice with "Mick" and his littermate Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" in the spacious building. We also enjoyed watching judging in quite a few breeds.

October 18 - More Photos from Montgomery Weekend

October 15 - Shuffles and Friends

Last evening, I received I wonderful update on one of our puppies, Shuffles (Ch. Finnsky Gladiator x Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!), who is owned and adored by Frank and Holly Basta. Frank and Holly shared some insight into Shuffles' life: "Shuffles is a wonderful dog, best we've ever had. She is of course spoiled and rules the house. Our daughter Kelsey was just here with her big Lab. The dog is >3 times Shuffles size, who is 25 pounds, but that Lab knew who was boss, Skyes rule. She has the best personality. Each night when I come home from work she greets me at the top of the stairs, gives me some kisses, and then runs figure eights between the living room and the dining room. Each night she hops up in my lap and watches TV with me for a while."

Frank and Holly also sent a photo of Shuffles with their nine adorable grandchildren - a photo that is sure to put a smile on your face. To answer the question, "Are Skyes good with children?".....

October 15

October 12 - New page for Tony x Glinda pups

A new page has been created for Tony and Glinda's pups. This page will be periodically updated with new photos to track the growth of the pups. As the pups approach three weeks of age, their eyes are now open and they are getting more active. We are enjoying them!

October 8

Just before the Montgomery Weekend, Maida and Boz - Ch. Gleanntan Gottalookatme attended a picnic for all of the therapy animals at the Ronald McDonald House in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

October 7

October 6 - Montgomery!

We have just returned from the Montgomery County Kennel Club - Skye Terrier Club of America National Specialty weekend. The four shows commenced on Thursday with the Hatboro Dog Club show, followed by another day of a Hatboro show, the Devon Dog Show Association show and culminating with the Montgomery County Kennel Club Terrier Show which is also the STCA Specialty.

Best of Breed all four days went to the same dog - a very handsome dog from Finland who I first admired when he was here for our Specialty in 2005. I have followed this dog's career in Finland and enjoyed the opportunity to see him as a fully mature adult. Ch. Of Skyeline Captain Hook (Ch. Finnsky Xcalibur x Ch. Of Skyeline Abracadabra) also took group placements three of the four days, including an outstanding Group 3 at Montgomery.

I am happy to report that our Finnish import, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony", had a strong showing. Additionally, our bitch Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee! - "Bea" returned to the ring after a two plus year hiatus and she also had a strong showing. Two of Tony and Bea's get were also entered, Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper" owned and handled by Travis Wright and Gleanntan Gale's Grace - "Bailey" owned and handled by Kate Kozeliski.

Here is an overview of the awards earned by Tony, Bea and Bailey:

Thursday, October  2 - Hatboro Dog Club I
Judge: Mr. Robert E. Hutton
Entry: 7-10 (5-2) and 1 Veteran Dog

Award of Merit (the single AOM awarded on the day) - Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - bred by Thea and Rolf Dahlbom, Kennel Finnsky
Best of Opposite Sex - Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee! - handled beautifully by Travis S. Wright

Friday, October 3 - Hatboro Dog Club II
Judge: Mr. H. Scott Kellogg
Entry: 9-9 (5-2) and 1 Veteran Dog

Award of Merit (2nd of 3 AOM awards) - Ch. Finnsky Gladiator

Saturday, October 4 - Devon Dog Show Association
Judge: Mrs. Sue Weiss
Entry: 9-9 (7-3)

Winners Bitch & Best of Winners (4 point major) - Gleanntan Gale's Grace

We are very proud of Bailey's owner and handler Kate Kozeliski. Bailey is Kate's first Skye Terrier and her first show dog. They only started showing less than one year ago.

Sunday, October 5 - Montgomery - Skye Terrier Club of America National Specialty
Judge: Mrs. Patricia V. Trotter
Entry: 10-12 (10-3) and 7

Award of Merit (2nd of 3 AOM awards) - Ch. Finnsky Gladiator
Award of Merit (3rd of 3 AOM awards) - Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee! - handled by Travis Wright

The Awards of Merit at a national specialty are highly coveted and we are delighted that judge Trotter presented two of the three awards to Tony and Bea, particularly given the fact that there was an entry of 42 Skyes, including 13 Specials.

September 27

For this final weekend of shows before the big Montgomery County KC weekend, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" was entered in the Warrenton KC and Old Dominion KC shows. Three of Tony's offspring (out of Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!) were also entered - Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper" owned and shown by Travis Wright; Gleanntan Gale's Grace - "Bailey" owned and shown by Kate Kozeliski; and Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick" owned by Lynn and Gary Wolf and very nicely shown by Kate Kozeliski.

The total entry of Skyes on Saturday was 3-1-1-1. Tony took Best of Breed under judge Lydia C. Hutchinson. In the terrier group under judge Elaine Mathis, Tony was one of six to make the cut but he did not place on this day. In the classes, Cooper was Reserve Winners Dog and Bailey was Winners Bitch/Best of Winners.

September 25 - Puppies

We are happy to share that "Glinda" - Ch. Gleanntan Glindathegoodwitch had four puppies today - 1 boy and 3 girls. Proud father is Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony". The four pups were born in less than two hours and Glinda is being a gentle, attentive mother. We can't help but be reminded of Glinda's wonderful mother, "Emily" - Ch. Gleanntan Grandxpose who gave birth to Glinda in August, 2004 in the same whelping box and in the same room where Glinda's litter was born today. The cycle of life continues.

September 23 - Gettysburg College's "Dog Days" - Encore

Last evening Maida and I fulfilled our promise to a group of students who requested we return one week after the official completion of Dog Days. In addition to the Dog Days regulars Boz, Bea and Mackenzie, this week we also brought Tony (Ch. Finnsky Gladiator). Tony was a big hit with the group of about 10 students. He loved the attention and tummy rubs. He also responded to greetings with the enthusiastic kisses that are typical of his "large" personality. One student delighted in giving Tony different hair styles, moving his heavy head coat off one eye and then the other eye. It was a fun outing for the Skyes.

September 20

September 19 - Gettysburg College's "Dog Days"

Last evening was the final day of the three weeks "Dog Days" at Gettysburg College. What fun Maida and I and the Skyes have had during these twice weekly sessions. After the first session, we soon learned that it was advantageous to sit on the ground with Boz, Bea and Mackenzie and allow the students to come up and sit with the Skyes. Before long, each time we visited, a regular group of students would form a circle around the Skyes. Boz, Bea and Mackenzie alternated between visiting with each student in the circle, and lying down to have their tummies rubbed. One of the students took great pride in remembering their names and called out to her friends as they walked across the campus, "Hey, <friend's name>, you have to come over here to meet these neat dogs! This is Boz and this is Bea and this is her daughter Mackenzie."

One of the students wrote Maida a lovely note after last evening's session: "Hi Maida, It's me, <student's name>, one of the many fans of your Skye Terriers. Thank you so much for bringing them to all of the Dog Days and staying well past all the other owners to hang out with all of us. It's been so much fun and I really appreciate you taking all that time to spend with us. It really does help reduce the stress of moving in and classes and everything else."

Dog Days has been a rewarding experience of sharing the Skyes with students who love animals. While the unique look of the breed perhaps first attracted the students to the Skyes, it was most assuredly their approachability and their friendly, empathetic temperaments that made them appealing to visit with each week. I feel certain that Emily would be proud of her kids, Boz and Bea and her granddaughter Mackenzie that they are carrying on her legacy.

At the request of some of the students, we have plans to bring Boz, Bea and Mackenzie to campus one day next week and we look forward to many such visits in the future.

You can read more about Dog Days on the Gettysburg College website. I encourage you to watch the video clip of the 2006 television news coverage of the event.

September 14 - Second weekend of back-to-back group placements for Tony

Maida and I were at the Lehigh Valley Kennel Club and Berks County Kennel Club shows this past weekend. The entry both days was 1-0-2-0 with one male special absent both days.

On Saturday, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" took Best of Breed under judge Mr. Alan E. Bennett from Canada. In the terrier group, Tony earned a Group 3 in a strong competition. As is often the case in our area of the country, the judge had a group of quality terriers to choose from. Judge Mrs. Dorothy Taylor ultimately awarded Group 1 to the World Dog Show winning Sealy. Group 2 went to the #1 Welsh Terrier in the U.S. Group 4 went to the #1 Norwich in the U.S. Group 1, 2 and 4 were handled by professionals and Tony was owner/handled to Group 3.

On Sunday, Tony took Best of Breed under judge Mr. James Ham and then a Group 4 in a field comprised of mostly the same dogs as yesterday. The group judge was Dr. Gerard C. Penta. Group 1 again went to the Sealy. Group 2 again went to the Welsh Terrier. Group 3 went to the #1 Cairn Terrier in the U.S. and the top 3 placing dogs were professionally handled. We are pleased with Tony's showing both days.

Below are a couple of photos taken by Maida on Saturday.

September 13 - More Gettysburg College Dog Days photos

September 10 - Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper"

September 7 - "Dog Days" at Gettysburg College
Recently, Maida and I have been participating in a wonderful event called "Dog Days" at Gettysburg College. As a member of the Gettysburg College staff, Maida was invited to participate. To quote from the Gettysburg College website: "Dog Days" is designed to use pets to help welcome students to Gettysburg College. During the first three weeks of classes, college employees are encouraged to bring their dogs to campus for "Dog Days." Students are invited to meet the dogs and their owners. "If you get to know the dog, you can get to know the person," said Kathy Bradley, Director of the Health & Counseling Center and Associate Dean of College Life, who dreamed up Dog Days. "If a student has one connection on campus - from a custodian to the president - we're more likely to retain that student. And it addresses students' homesickness and well-being."

So on Monday and Thursday evenings, Maida and I have rushed home from our offices to pack up the Skyes for the 5:15 p.m. start of "Dog Days". So far, we have taken Boz (Ch. Gleanntan Gottalookatme), his littermate, Bea (Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!) and her 16-month daughter, Mackenzie (Gleanntan Glorious Legacy). Boz and Bea have been Ronald McDonald House therapy dogs since they were four months old and they have always exhibited the empathy and sensitivity that was such an endearing quality of their mother, Emily (Ch. Gleanntan Grandxpose).

During one of the recent Gettysburg College "Dog Days" sessions, Boz, Bea and Mackenzie visited with a group of about 8 freshman students who gathered with the Skyes in a circle on the ground. Before long, the three Skyes were lying down basking in the attention of the students. Occasionally, young Mackenzie would climb into the lap of a student to give kisses. The students enjoyed talking about their animals at home and how much they missed them. They also talked about their hectic first few days and weeks adjusting to college life.

Kathy Bradley, Associate Dean for College Life, wrote in her recap of that night's session: "Maida and Michael, with their “caterpillar dogs” as some students have named them, looked like they were leading a retreat group - they were sitting on the ground amid a bunch of students who were there for the duration. Seems once on the ground, no one wanted to get back up! I left at 6:30 and they were all still there. . . (Are they still?)"

Maida and I have enjoyed this opportunity to share our Skye Terriers and the Skyes helped to put a smile on the faces of a few students.

September 7 - News!

Our much loved Emily daughter, Ch. Gleanntan Glindathegoodwitch - "Glinda", was bred to our handsome Finnish import Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" at the end of July. An ultrasound on Friday confirmed that Glinda is in whelp. Puppies are due towards the end of this month.

This past weekend we were at the Altoona Area Kennel Association and Laurel Highlands Kennel Association shows in Ebensburg, Pennsylvania. It has been a few years since we last attended these shows and we enjoyed returning to this pretty show site. The entry both days was 0-1-3-0. The class bitch was absent both days. There were three mature, fully coated male specials on Saturday and we were pleased that Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" took Best of Breed and a Group 2 under judge Marjorie Underwood. On Sunday, the other two specials were absent. Tony took Best of Breed under judge Don Evans and then a Group 4 under judge David Kirkland.

August 23

This weekend we are at the Mid-Susquehanna Kennel Club shows in Middleburg, Pennsylvania. Today, we had an opportunity to get new photos of Mackenzie and Mick and a photo of their sire, Tony, in the group ring.

August 19 - New Photo of Tony

August 16 - A Video Tribute to Emily

August 13 - Farewell Emily

The time came for our beloved Ch.Gleanntan Grandxpose to go to heaven. So, this evening, with very heavy hearts, Ben, Michael and Maida sent our very special girl over the Rainbow Bridge. Emily, you will never be forgotten.

August 11 - Gleanntan Glorious Legacy on the move

"Mackenzie" in full stride with her strong reach and drive. This Emily granddaughter/Bea daughter sired by Tony will be making her ring debut in September.

August 10

Maida and I were at two shows closer to home this past weekend. On Saturday was the Penn Ridge KC show (judge: Mr. Norman Patton) and on Sunday was the Harrisburg KC show (judge: Mrs. Billie Kellogg) - both at the Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg, PA. Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" took BOB both days and turned in two solid performances in a deep field of terriers.

August 3 - Canfield - Steel Valley Cluster - Skye Terrier Club of America Supported Entry Shows

Maida and I have just returned from the four Steel Valley Cluster shows in Canfield, Ohio. We were also joined by Travis Wright and Kate Kozeliski, who were attending their first Canfield, and we had a chance to visit with Roxan Rohrich.

The four shows were supported entry shows for the Skye Terrier Club of America, with an entry of between 8 and 11 Skyes each day.

It is hard to believe that this was our tenth year attending the Canfield shows. This show weekend always attracts excellent Skye competition. The large fairgrounds at Canfield are well-suited to large entries, specialties and supported entries. Because all of the shows are at the same site for the duration, the shows lend themselves to complete immersion in the sport of dogs with many opportunities to watch judging in other breeds and to simply "talk dogs."

This year we entered our Finnish import, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony". Travis had his 15-month old Tony son Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper" entered and Kate had her Tony daughter Gleanntan Gale's Grace - "Bailey" entered. Both of these promising youngsters are on their way to their AKC championships and this was a terrific weekend to benchmark their qualities and their progress.

We are very pleased to report the results from the four days. We could not be happier with the showing of Tony and his two kids. Also joining us again this long weekend was Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" who had lots of opportunities for ring training and socialization.

Here is a summary of our results for the four days:

Thursday, July 31
Fort Steuben Kennel Assoc.
Winners Dog & Best of Winners - Gleanntan Gaelforce - owned and shown by Travis Wright  
Best of BreedCh. Finnsky Gladiator

Friday, August 1
Columbiana County KC
Winners Bitch & Best of Opposite Sex - Gleanntan Gale's Grace - owned and shown by Kate Kozeliski  
Best of Breed - Ch. Finnsky Gladiator

Saturday, August 2
Beaver County KC
Winners Bitch & Best of Opposite Sex - Gleanntan Gale's Grace - owned and shown by Kate Kozeliski

Sunday, August 3
Mahoning-shenango KC
Winners Dog & Best of Winners - Gleanntan Gaelforce - owned and shown by Travis Wright

July 26

We showed at the Lackawanna KC show last weekend in Bloomsburg, PA (just Saturday). Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" took Best of Breed wins.

July 20 - Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" - #1 Skye Terrier - All Systems (through June, 2008)

Through June, 2008, Tony is the #1 Skye Terrier in the United States (breed points and all-breed) - owner/handled by Michael Pesare. We are grateful to Tony's breeders, Thea and Rolf Dahlbom, Kennel Finnsky for sending Tony to us as a young pup in October, 2005.

July 20 - Back at Shows!

Maida and I took two weeks off after the Virginia Terrier weekend. Last weekend, we showed just on Saturday (7/12) at the Shawnee KC show in the Winchester, Virginia area. We had Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" and his son Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick" (Ch. Finnsky Gladiator x Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!) entered. Tony took Best of Breed on an exceedingly hot and humid day.

This past weekend, Maida and I were at the Nita Nee Kennel Club shows in Centre Hall, PA. This beautiful rural show site, at the Grange Fairgrounds, is not far from the main campus of Penn State University. The weather was once again quite hot and humid, with only a bit of relief coming from steady winds off the mountains. We had Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" and his son Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick" entered and there was one other male Special entered from Western Pennsylvania (entry 1-0-2-0 both days).

On Saturday, Tony took Best of Breed under judge Don L. Evans and then went on to a Group 4 under judge Frank J. Washabaugh. Groups 1, 2 and 3 went to professionally-handled dogs - Group 1 was the #1 Welsh Terrier in the U.S.; Group 2 was the #2 Wire Fox Terrier in the U.S.; and Group 3 was the #1 Kerry Blue Terrier in the U.S.

On Sunday, Tony again took Best of Breed under judge Kenneth Kauffman.

We also brought Tony's 15-month old daughter, Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" (Ch. Finnsky Gladiator x Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!), with us each day. After the breed judging, I gaited Mackenzie around the show grounds, giving her opportunities to practice show gaiting and to meet new people. Mackenzie will be making her ring debut soon and will be shown in the Bred by Exhibitor class.

June 30 - Happy 4th of July

June 23 - Virginia Terrier Weekend

Maida and I were at the Virginia Terrier Club and Virginia Kennel Club shows in Richmond, Virginia this past weekend. We had Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" and his son Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick" entered all three days. Travis Wright had Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper" entered on Friday and Kate Kozeliski had Gleanntan Gale's Grace - "Bailey" entered on Saturday.

At the Virginia Terrier Club show on Friday, June 20, Winners Dog and Best of Winners went to Gleanntan Gaelforce with Reserve going to Gleanntan Comeflywithme! Winners Bitch and Best of Opposite Sex went to a bitch owned by a breeder from North Carolina. Best of Breed went to Ch. Finnsky Gladiator. The judge on this day was Sue Weiss. In the group, Mrs. Weiss did not make a cut and gave BIS to a beautiful Swedish-bred Bedlington. At the Virginia Kennel Club all-breed show on Saturday, under judge Gary Doerge, Winners Dog went to Gleanntan Comeflywithme! and Winners Bitch/Best of Winners/Best of Opposite Sex went to the NC bred bitch. Reserve Winners Bitch went to Gleanntan Gale's Grace. Best of Breed went to Ch. Finnsky Gladiator. In the group, Tony made the final cut but did not place. At the Virginia Kennel Club show on Sunday, under judge Fred Ferris, Winners Dog went to Gleanntan Comeflywithme! and Winners Bitch/Best of Winners/Best of Opposite Sex went to the NC bred bitch. Best of Breed went to Ch. Finnsky Gladiator. In the group, Tony made the final cut but did not place.

It was as most enjoyable weekend with opportunities to visit with friends in our own breed and in other breeds. On Saturday, Shirley Deasy came up to the show from North Carolina with her Skye, Emmee (Gleanntan Goodnessxposed). It was fun to see Shirley and sweet Emmee. We also had wonderful opportunities to walk youngsters, Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick" and his littermate Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" around the show building. Mick and Mackenzie made new friends for the breed while having great socialization experiences.

June 19 - Bryn Mawr Kennel Club shows

Quick update on last weekend's shows - the Bryn Mawr Kennel Club shows in Ludwigs Corner, PA. Shown were Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick" in the 12-18 Month Class and his sire, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" in Best of Breed. Tony took BOB both days. He did not place in the group either day. However, a friend (and talented photographer!) took a number of wonderful photos of Tony which are featured below.

June 13 - Duffy's Finishing Photo

June 8 - Skyline KC and Shenandoah Valley KC Shows

Maida and I were at the Skyline KC and the Shenandoah Valley KC shows this past weekend. Shown were Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick" in the 12-18 Month Class and his sire, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" competing in Best of Breed. On Saturday, Tony took Best of Breed under judge Mrs. Jacqueline L. Stacy. He went on to make the cut in the group under judge John (Tom) Ward. Today, at the Shenandoah Valley KC show, Tony took Best of Breed under judge Mr. Bill (R.W.) Edwards. He went on to a Group 4 placement under judge Mr. Alfred J. Ferruggiaro. Group 1 went to the Sealy; Group 2 went to a very beautiful Swedish-bred Bedlington who will be competing at the World Show in Sweden next month. Group 3 went to a Smooth Fox Terrier that has had many nice wins throughout the country.

June 1 - Huntington Valley KC and Burlington County KC

Just returned from an enjoyable weekend at the Huntington Valley KC and the  Burlington County KC shows which are held at the site of the Fall's Hatboro Dog Club shows. For these shows, the rings are set up in a lower part of the Middletown Grange Fairgrounds and the site is very attractive and easy on the exhibitors. Shown were Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick" in the 12-18 Month Class and his sire, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" competing in Best of Breed.  Tony took BOB both days and he also made the cut in the group both days under judge Roberta Campbell (Saturday) and Sue Goldberg (Sunday). Margery Good's Sealy won both days.

Tony has competed in 12 shows since the beginning of April, 2008. In those 12 shows he has placed in the group twice and has been in the final cut 7 times.  

Both Tony and Mick showed nicely both days. The career of any show dog is a continuum. They are animals with their own personalities - with strengths and areas that need to be the focus of work. As with all "performance" events, there is considerable satisfaction to be gained when you see measurable progress.

May 26 - Memorial Day Weekend 2008 - New Ch. Gleanntan Going For The Silver - "Duffy"

Maida and I were at three of the Memorial Day Weekend shows in Freehold, New Jersey. Judy Fatzinger joined us for two of the days and Sue Chandler and her Skye "Gracie" (Gleanntan Graceunderpressure, CGC, TDIA) visited on Sunday.

We entered Gleanntan Comeflywithme! - "Mick" owned by Gary and Lynn Wolf, Gleanntan Going For The Silver - "Duffy" owned by Judy Fatzinger, Gleanntan Gothappyfeet - "Mumbo" owned by Gleanntan and Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" owned by Gleanntan.

On Saturday at the Monmouth County Kennel Club, Winners Dog went to Gleanntan Comeflywithme! On Sunday at the Plainfield Kennel Club, Winners Dog went to Gleanntan Going For The Silver. With this win, Duffy earned the final point for his AKC Championship. Duffy earned all of his championship points handled by Maida. On Monday at the Union County Kennel Club, Winners Dog went to Gleanntan Gothappyfeet. Ch. Finnsky Gladiator earned Best of Breed all three days. He also made the cut in the terrier group on Sunday under judge James Reynolds.

The weather could not have been better  - sunny and warm but not too humid. We greatly enjoyed the weekend in an area of the Garden State that remains rather rural.

Here are a couple of photos of Duffy taken by Judy Fatzinger and a photo of Tony on the move taken by Maida.

May 18

We were at the Carroll Kennel Club show today in Westminster, Maryland. The entry was 2-1-1-0 and the judge was Mrs. Margaret P. Mickelson. Winners Dog (1 pt.) went to Gleanntan Gothappyfeet - "Mumbo" and Winners Bitch/Best of Winners/Best of Opposite Sex (1 pt.) went to Gleanntan Gale's Grace handled by her owner Kate Kozeliski. Best of Breed went to Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony". In the group competition, Tony made the cut under judge Miss Dorothy M. Macdonald.

May 7 - More new photos - Tony and Nessie

Adding quite a few new photos this week!

May 6 - A group of new photos from the Potomac Specialty

May 4 - New photo of Gleanntan Comeflywithme!

We were not at shows this weekend, though all of the Skyes had a thorough grooming, bathing, teeth cleaning and nail clipping. Here is a new photo of Mick.

April 28 - New Photo of Gleanntan Going For The Silver

April 27

Maida and I were at the Wilmington Kennel Club and Penn Treaty Kennel Club shows last weekend.

The Wilmington KC show on Saturday was held at the beautiful Lums Pond State Park in Bear, Delaware. The site is well laid out and very exhibitor friendly. Under judge Gary L. Doerge, Winners Dog (1 point) went to Gleanntan Going For The Silver, owned by Judy Fatzinger and shown by Maida. Winners Bitch/Best of Winners/Best of Opposite Sex (1 point) went to Finnsky Finesse to complete her AKC Championship. Best of Breed went to Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony". Tony was also one of six to make the cut in the group. He ultimately did not place in the group that was won by Margery Good's Sealy - #1 terrier 2007.

The Penn Treaty KC show on Sunday was held at the Ludwigs Corner Horse Show Grounds, site of the Devon Dog Show during Montgomery Weekend. Under judge Sharol Candace Way, Winners Dog (1 point) again went to Gleanntan Going For The Silver, owned by Judy Fatzinger and shown by Maida. Best of Breed went to Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony". Tony went on to a Group 4 placement under judge Way. The White Bull Terrier was Group 1, the Sealy was Group 2, and a very nice national specialty winning professionally handled Norwich was Group 3. The Bull Terrier went on the take Best in Show.

Below is a photo taken by Maida of Tony on the move in the group.

April 23

April 20 - 34th Annual Potomac Skye Terrier Club Specialty

We've just completed the Potomac Skye Terrier Club's Regional Specialty show, as well as the Old Dominion Kennel Club show the following day and I am pleased to report our results.

This year's Potomac Specialty, held on Friday, April 18, attracted a nice entry of 18 (6-8-2-1)-1 for judge Dr. Harry Smith. Dr. Smith is a popular judge in the Skye community, having judged the Skye Terrier Club of America's Roving National Specialty in 1997. Unfortunately, less than two weeks before the show, Dr. Smith had to cancel due to health issues. The Columbia Terrier Association of Maryland selected Dr. Smith's replacement, Mr. Madison Weeks as he was on the panel for a few other terrier breeds that day.

Of the 9 Skyes that were present at the Specialty on Friday, there were exhibitors from Canada, Washington, DC, Virginia, Delaware, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.

At the Old Dominion Kennel Club the following day, the entry was about the same, with 8 Skyes present. The judge this day was Dr. Gerald M. Mager.

We are proud of the fact that the breed winner both days was our import, Ch. Finnsky Gladiator, from Thea and Rolf Dahlbom, Kennel Finnsky, Finland. Tony came to us as a young pup about two and a half years ago and he has matured beautifully. Winners Bitch both days was earned by another of our Skyes bred by Kennel Finnsky, Finnsky Finesse. In just 13 shows, Nessie has earned both of her majors and is one point shy of her AKC Championship. Winners Dog/Best of Winners both days was earned by a promising youngster of our breeding, Gleanntan Gaelforce -"Cooper", proudly owned and shown by Travis S. Wright, Ed.D. Cooper is sired by Ch. Finnsky Gladiator out of Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!. Three of the pups from this litter are major pointed at one year of age.

Each one of the Skyes in the list of winners below has a story associated with him or her. These Skyes represent the care and love that is required to fulfill the potential of even the most promising show dog. I have posted the results for our Skyes below and I should have a few photos to share in the coming week.

34th Annual Potomac Skye Terrier Club Regional Specialty Show
Friday, April 18, 2008
Maryland State Fairgrounds
Timonium, Maryland

Best of Breed
Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony"
Breeder: Thea and Rolf Dahlbom
Owner: Gleanntan Kennels, Reg.
Handled by: Michael J. Pesare

Winners Dog/Best of Winners (3-point major)
Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper"
Breeder: Gleanntan Kennels, Reg.
Owned and handled by: Dr. Travis S. Wright

Reserve Winners Dog
Gleanntan Going For The Silver - "Duffy"
Breeder: Gleanntan Kennels, Reg.
Owner: Judy Fatzinger
Handled by: Maida Connor

Winners Bitch/Best of Opposite Sex (3 point major)
Finnsky Finesse - "Nessie"
Breeder: Thea and Rolf Dahlbom
Owner: Gleanntan Kennels, Reg.
Handled by: Maida Connor

Reserve Winners Bitch
Gleanntan Gale's Grace - "Bailey"
Breeder: Gleanntan Kennels, Reg.
Owned and handled by: Ms. Kathryn Kozeliski


Sweepstakes
Judge: Mr. Don Evans
Entry: 6 Skyes - 3-3

Best Puppy in Sweepstakes and Best in Sweepstakes
Gleanntan Gothappyfeet - "Mumbo"
Breeder: Gleanntan Kennels, Reg.
Owner: Gleanntan Kennels, Reg. & Darren & Lynn McMillion
Handled by: Michael J. Pesare

Best Junior in Sweepstakes
Gleanntan Going For The Silver - "Duffy"
Breeder: Gleanntan Kennels, Reg.
Owner: Judy Fatzinger
Handled by: Maida Connor


Old Dominion Kennel Club Show
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Maryland State Fairgrounds
Timonium, Maryland

Entry: 15 Skyes - 4-8-2-1 (with 7 absent)
Regular Classes Judge: Dr. Gerald M. Mager

Best of Breed
Ch. Finnsky Gladiator
Breeder: Thea and Rolf Dahlbom
Owner: Gleanntan Kennels, Reg.
Handled by: Michael J. Pesare

Winners Dog/Best of Winners (2-points)
Gleanntan Gaelforce
Breeder: Gleanntan Kennels, Reg.
Owned and handled by: Dr. Travis S. Wright

Reserve Winners Dog
Gleanntan Gothappyfeet
Breeder: Gleanntan Kennels, Reg.
Owner: Gleanntan Kennels, Reg. & Darren & Lynn McMillion
Handled by: Michael J. Pesare

Winners Bitch (2 points)
Finnsky Finesse
Breeder: Thea and Rolf Dahlbom
Owner: Gleanntan Kennels, Reg.
Handled by: Maida Connor

Reserve Winners Bitch
Gleanntan Gale's Grace
Breeder: Gleanntan Kennels, Reg.
Owned and handled by: Ms. Kathryn Kozeliski

April 13 - Blue and Gray Cluster

Maida and I were at two of the four Blue and Gray Cluster shows in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania this weekend. We entered just a few of our class dogs this weekend to give them opportunities for ring experience. Also, "Boz" (Ch. Gleanntan Gottalookatme) was invited by the show committee to participate in the Meet the Breeds Booth on Saturday and Sunday. Boz was invited because the committee wanted to have local Westminster Kennel Club winners/participants there and also to increase awareness for the Skye Terrier.

On Saturday, the Skye entry under judge Jerry Roszman was 2-1-1-0 with one of our class dogs absent. The male special who was present is a professionally-handled dog not of our breeding. Winners Dog was Gleanntan Going For The Silver owned by Judy Fatzinger and handled by Maida. Winners Bitch/Best of Winners and Best of Breed from the Open class was Finnsky Finesse owned by Gleanntan and handled by Michael. The group competition was filmed by Animal Planet for broadcast at a later date.

On Sunday, the entry under judge Robert Sharp was 2-1-0-0. Winners Dog (1 point) and Best of Opposite Sex went to our Bred by Exhibitor dog Gleanntan Gothappyfeet - "Mumbo" handled by Michael. Winners Bitch/Best of Winners (1 point) and Best of Breed  went to Finnsky Finesse.

We greatly enjoyed spending time on Saturday and Sunday at the Meet the Breeds Booth with Boz and Mumbo. These two boys hung out together and were perfect gentlemen. There were quite a few visitors at the booth with lots of curious youngsters with excellent questions about the breed. Today, we even had a visitor in a wheelchair who enjoyed holding Boz in her lap.

April 6 - Show Season Resumes

This past weekend, Maida and I were at the Greater Fredericksburg Kennel Club show and the Chesapeake Kennel Club show.

The entry on Saturday, under judge Edd E. Bivin, was 4-3-2-0 with one absent. Winners Dog (3-point major) and Best of Winners went to Gleanntan Going For The Silver - "Duffy" owned by Judy Fatzinger and handled by Maida. Reserve Winners Dog went to Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper" owned and handled by Travis Wright. Winners Bitch (2 points) and Best of Opposite Sex went to Finnsky Finesse - "Nessie" handled on this occasion by Travis Wright. Reserve Winners Bitch went to Gleanntan Gale's Grace - "Bailey" owned and shown by Kate Kozeliski. Best of Breed went to Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony". In the group competition, Tony showed nicely and made the cut under judge Bivin.

The entry on Sunday, under judge Alfred J. Ferruggiaro, was 4-2-2-0 with one absent. Winners Dog (3-point major) and Best of Winners again went to Gleanntan Going For The Silver - "Duffy" owned by Judy Fatzinger and handled by Maida. Reserve Winners Dog went to Gleanntan Gaelforce - "Cooper" owned and handled by Travis Wright. Winners Bitch (1 point) and Best of Opposite Sex went to Gleanntan Gale's Grace - "Bailey" owned and shown by Kate Kozeliski. Reserve Winners Bitch went to Finnsky Finesse - "Nessie". Best of Breed again went to Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony". In group competition, Tony earned a Group 4 in a nice field of terriers - Group 1 went to Margery Good's amazing Sealy who was the #1 terrier in 2007; Group 2 went to the #1 Bedlington - 2007; Group 3 went to the Smooth Fox Terrier.

Below are a few candid photos from the show.

March 7 - Three Generations of Gleanntan Skyes Participate in Read Across America '08

Today, Maida and I, and three generations of Gleanntan girls - Ch. Gleanntan Grandxpose - "Emily", her daughter, Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee! - "Bea" (Ch. Gleanntan Going For It x Ch. Gleanntan Grandxpose), and her granddaughter, Gleanntan Glorious Legacy - "Mackenzie" (Ch. Finnsky Gladiator x Ch. Gleanntan Givemebusybee!) participated in the national Read Across America celebration. Sponsored by the National Education Association, Read Across America is designed to focus attention on how important it is to motivate children to read.

This is the third year we have visited a local school to read to students. In 2006 and 2007, we visited with Emily (Ch. Gleanntan Grandxpose) and read passages of the Greyfriar's Bobby novel and the Greyfriar's Bobby children's book. This year, we decided to try something a bit different by visiting the same school with not only Emily, but also Bea and Mackenzie.

In her retirement, Emily is the much-loved matriarch of Gleanntan, living with Ben Dale and periodically spending time here at her Aspers retreat when Ben is traveling. All three girls visit as therapy dogs at the Ronald McDonald House in Hershey, PA. Emily started visiting the house in 2004 at age 7. Bea also began doing therapy work in 2004 at the tender age of 4 months. Mackenzie is just starting her therapy activities with visits beginning last Fall.

After Maida and I arrived at the school, we walked to the school's gymnasium where about 75 children, ranging from kindergarten students to 2nd graders, were gathered. As part of my brief introduction, I explained to the children that Skye Terriers are an old and rare terrier breed with only about 100 dogs born each year in the U.S. I asked the children how many of them owned dogs. Within seconds, the room was filled with raised hands. I then read passages of "Skippy the Little Skye Terrier". After about 20 minutes of reading, the children were allowed to visit with the Skyes. The teachers had the children form two long lines and the Skyes made their way down the lineup of kids.

Next we walked down the hall to another large room where another group of 75 children were gathered. This group was comprised of multiple combined classes of kindergarten students and 1st graders. After the reading, the kids remained sitting on the floor and formed two large circles. Emily, Bea and Mackenzie made their way around the circles of children. Emily displayed her keen empathy as she visited with groups of kids, occasionally climbing up into a lap to give kisses. As you can see in one of the photos below, Emily walked around each circle of kids on her own without anyone holding her lead. Bea and Mackenzie were also very tolerant of the kids, even though at times, children approached them from all different angles. Bea and Mackenzie are best of friends at home and I could see young Mackenzie relying on her mom to set the pace for interactions.

The photos below capture a special day of sharing the Skye Terrier.

February 19 - Nessie

In November of last year, we had the good fortune to add this Skye bitch to our home and our program. Our objective was to add breeding diversity with a bitch that would be of complimentary phenotype. This recent photo of 3.5 year old Finnsky Finesse - "Nessie" illustrates what we value in this pretty girl.

February 13 - 132nd Westminster Kennel Club

Maida and I are home now from the 132nd Westminster Kennel Club Show - held on Monday, February 11 and Tuesday, February 12 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. It has often been said that "there is only one Westminster" and this show has long been a source of inspiration for us.

This was our sixth Westminster KC, the first coming in 1995. For four years in a row from 2002 through 2005, our entries consisted of Boz's dam Emily - Ch. Gleanntan Grandxpose, Ch. Gleanntan Gee Whillikers - "Michael" and/or Ch. Gleanntan Gotitxactlyrite - "Arnie". In 2002, 2003 and 2005, Gleanntan had two of these three in the entry at Westminster. Ben and Donna Dale, as well as Roxan Rohrich, and the Gleanntan Skyes have an even longer history with Westminster, dating back to the early 1970's. The last Gleanntan Skye to win Best of Breed at the Garden was Ch. Gleanntan T'Roc O'Gibraltar - "BG" who won in 1994, breeder/owner handled by Roxan Rohrich.

Westminster is one of the few remaining benched shows in the United States. The benching is such an integral part of the Westminster experience and it provides the general public with a wonderful chance to see the dogs up close and personal and it provides opportunities for exhibitors to spend time with each other to share knowledge.

On Monday morning, our beloved Boz - Ch. Gleanntan Gottalookatme earned Best of Breed. After the breed judging, Boz returned to the benching area and spent quite a bit of time on top of his crate. Boz offered his gentle temperament to the steady stream of dog lovers that visited. People of all ages stopped by and Boz patiently allowed them to pet him while they asked the questions that always come to mind when you first meet a Skye i.e. "How do they see?"

Also joining us were our friends, Travis Wright, who is Boz's co-owner and Kate Kozeliski who is the proud owner of Boz's niece, Bailey. This was both Travis and Kate's first Westminster.

Later that evening, in a live, national television broadcast, Boz gave me one of his finest performances in the ring and represented the breed well in the Terrier Group.

January 29

We always enjoy using this page to share the times when our Skyes bring joy to families at the Ronald McDonald House in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Today, Boz visited the house to bring early Valentine's Day wishes to families staying there. Boz enjoyed spending time on the sofa with a family who has been staying at the house for the past few weeks. Four-year old Gabriel hugged Boz, listening to "Skippy the Little Skye Terrier" read aloud, and getting Skye kisses on his face. Gabriel's one-year old sister has been receiving intensive treatment at the Penn State Hershey Medical Center Children's Hospital as a result of injuries suffered in a fall. Thankfully, she is recovering nicely and the family looks forward to returning to their own home, family, and their dog very soon.

January 22 - Boz's Video on You Tube

We hope enjoy this 5-minute video tribute to Ch. Gleanntan Gottalookatme - "Boz" and his accomplishments in 2007. From the time Boz was born in August, 2004, he has occupied a special place in our hearts. Some of the images in the video commemorate Boz's successes in the show ring. Many others convey Boz's gentle temperament that makes him a joy to have here at home.

January 10 - BOZ

We are proud to announce that Ch. Gleanntan Gottalookatme - "Boz" completed 2007 as the #1 Skye Terrier in the United States - All Systems (breed points, group points - all rating systems). Boz competed in 62 shows in 2007 and earned Best of Breed in 57 of those shows. He was Best of Breed at the Potomac Skye Terrier Club Specialty in April, 2007 and he also earned BOB in the two subsequent shows held that weekend. In August, Boz earned Best of Breed in three of the four Skye Terrier Club of America Supported Entry shows at the Steel Valley Cluster in Canfield, Ohio. In October, on the STCA National Specialty Weekend, Boz earned Best of Breed at the Hatboro Dog Club II show. In group competition, Boz earned a total of 16 group placements, including two Group 1 wins. Boz was always presented his co-breeder, Michael J. Pesare.

I checked the records on the last time a breeder/owner handled Skye Terrier earned the #1 - All Systems title and learned that it occurred 15 years ago - in 1992 - with another Gleanntan-bred favorite, Ch. Gleanntan T'Roc O'Gibraltar - "BG" lovingly handled by his co-breeder Roxan Rohrich.

Boz is co-owned by Travis S. Wright, Ed.D. of Washington, DC.

January 10

Maida, Roxan and I were at the Rubber City Kennel Club shows in Akron, Ohio last weekend. The Skye entry this year was 0-1-2-0. The class bitch was Finnsky Finesse - "Nessie" bred by Thea and Rolf Dahlbom, Kennel Finnsky and owned by Gleanntan Kennels, Reg. One of the male Specials was Ch. Finnsky Gladiator - "Tony" also bred by Finnsky and owned by Maida Connor. There was one other male Special entered.

On Saturday, Best of Breed went to Ch. Finnsky Gladiator and Best of Opposite Sex went to Finnsky Finesse. On Sunday, Gladiator was absent. Best of Breed went to Finnsky Finesse who earned the honors from the Open Bitch class over the male Special.