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Welcome to Lakeside Kennels! I was introduced to the world of Miniature Australian Shepherds by Karen Firlotte of Sidekick Kennels in 1997. I was starting out fresh and was looking for a new companion. I had a standard sized Aussie and was determined that it was the only breed for me. It was exciting getting a new pup, and making new friends and beginning a whole new adventure. With the help and support of Sidekick Kennels, owner Karen Firlotte, I was soon introduced to more of the canine world and into the conformation show ring. Aussies have become my passion and raising a beautiful and healthy litter is one of my greatest enjoyments. Studying pedigrees, researching, health tests, and using the Puppy Puzzle is only a small fraction of what is involved in producing a good litter. My litters are born in my home, with me right by their side. Being a registered nurse does come in handy. Weighing each pup as they arrive and giving them a gentle once over as mom watches on gives me a great deal of pleasure. As the generations arrive here at Lakeside, I can now look at new puppies and see so many great features from those who came before.
Watching them as they grow, taking their first run across the floor, playing their first game of tug-of-war, and especially their first outing into the great outdoors. I love taking them for walks, the pups love to tag along, running into each other, tripping over their feet with surprise as they try to keep up. I think it is one of the best days for puppies, to explore, sit in the sunshine, and really let loose!
Canine nutrition is very important at Lakeside and my dogs enjoy a high quality kibble mixed with fresh organic meats, vegetables, fruit, homemade yogurt or kefir and omega 3 and 6 oils and also lots of raw meaty bones to satisfy their urge to chew, to keep their teeth white and gums healthy. Superior nutrition promotes exceptional health and when fed well, dogs have a better quality of life, and are the picture of good health and wellness.
Our dogs have acres to run on and lakes and ponds to swim...there is no site more pleasant than to watch a happy aussie enjoying life.
Another pleasure is the show ring. Traveling and meeting so many people who enjoy their dogs the way I enjoy mine, is very refreshing. The dogs love to travel and they love all the extra attention they get, even from just taking a walk around the show gro unds. You can’t help but notice a beautiful Aussie. Entering the ring with a dog you have produced and trained is like no other feeling. When you can get good critiques from the judge and the dog works the ring like you have work so hard to train them to do, the rewards are outstanding. Of course, getting that blue ribbon doesn’t hurt, but when you can finish a Champion, that stays with you forever.
Lakeside Kennels, located in the “Way Life Should Be” state of Maine, is dedicated to the continued care and love of the Miniature Australian Shepherd. I hope you have enjoyed the web site and will visit often. As we plan on adding more to our story, and our dogs.
Aussies Rule!
Kelly Reilly
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