Behind the Scenes at Meadowland

Our love for dogs started when we both were children, and delighted in our family dogs.  We bought our first Beagle, a lemon and white with an outstanding temperament, in 1987, whom we named Peaches. After consultation with Peaches' breeder, we decided to enter her in conformation shows, where she earned her championship. Her AKC name was Ch. Lee's Wild Peaches n' Creme.

As you can see, we were hooked! In 1989 we purchased Ch. Wilkat's Teddy Caboose. Teddy became a big part of our lives and after consideration we bred Teddy and Peaches for our first litter in 1989.

Since then we have produced over 25 Beagle champions--and along with group placements have achieved wins at Nationals, Specialties, and Westminster. Breeding and showing dogs is our hobby and our love for dogs is unconditional.

Shirley adds:
"In '96, I met my first Cavalier--Healey, a pet gifted to to my employer. She was the most loving dog I'd ever met, and I instantly became her best friend in work (where she used those beautiful eyes to appeal for a tiny piece of my lunch). She gave freely of her kisses and was overall a devoted loving dog--and that was it! I was a believer!

It took five years of research but I finally decided on a breeder with a good emphasis on health clearances and in mid-2007 I bought Victoria, my first Cavalier. At the time I didn't tell my husband, but I planned on getting a companion for Victoria... We now have Fergie, too. These dogs have been the best therapy for my husband; we both love them dearly and and they sleep by our sides.

I'm committed to a breeding program that will produce this wonderful temperment, as well as healthy, high-quality puppies for show and companions. Victoria will be bred late 2009 and serious inquiries are welcome. Of course, with such a precious breed, I'll have as many questions for you as you will for me!"

Shirley has been a technician at valley Animal hospital for many years, a job she is drawn to for the opportunity to help animals. Bruce and Shirley also have three grandchildren, all of whom inherited the love of dogs and two of whom have an interest in showing--including grandaughter Alyssa (left), who has received several Best Juniors and is now showing in the competition ring. Shirley and Bruce breed occasional litters after much planning and place their puppies with care, always seeking to meet and exceed breed standards. They do not place puppies through newspapers or pet stores.