Hello,

I just joined the list this weekend. What a great job you are all doing to
bring back the old type working farm dogs. I had seen a few sites with
individuals doing this, but was really pleased to see many of you have come
together in a group to give the whole concept further strength.

I will have loads of questions, but I'll start with just one for now.

Having talked with a number of breeders of the AKC recognized herding
breeds, I have noticed most would be unwilling to allow one of their dogs to
go into a program where a cross was going to be made. I see this as a real
pity. I do understand they want to safegard their dogs from ending up as
puppy mill stock etc. If a person can provide a good home for the breeding
dog, let them grow up as part of the family, and also follow through on
testing for hip dysplasia (sp?), eye problems etc, wouldn't it be just as
good of a home in the eyes of the seller/breeder?  I'm just wondering how
you begin really when most breeding stock is only available to "show homes".
I'm not ready to do this myself, but someday would like to work in this
direction. ( I hope I didn't make that clear as mud. )

Thanks,
Lynn L. / Wi