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| Larry & Michelle “Dogs are often what we make them: They may have their own traits and personalities, but in the end, they are mirrors of our own lives – living, breathing testaments to our strengths and frustrations, our families and our pasts” – John Katz (Author) Their introduction to the Canaan Dog was triggered by their interest in learning more about the roots of the “natural dog” and dog behaviour in general. Having spent some time on a Kibbutz as a youth, Larry was intrigued by the history of the pariah dogs of Israel.They set out to read everything and anything they could about this extraordinary breed. As fate would have it, they discovered the only breeder in Canada at the time was just 15 minutes away! They were fortunate to be able to spend lots of time getting to know Genny Landis and her foundation dogs Ch. Hadar Ha’Aretz Northern Snow “Jake” and Riverview’s Kayla .They were charmed and captivated by the dogs' natural "unmanufactured" beauty, intelligence, athleticism, and individual personalities. A year later, they would become the proud owners of JK Maccabee Northern Warrior “Macc” - one of the accomplished pups from the first Canadian litter born in the 21st century. To broaden their knowledge of the breed and meet established fanciers and breeders, Larry and Michelle attended breed shows, specialties and judges' seminars in the United States. And from there, their adventure would begin. In 2003, Larry and Michelle founded the Canaan Club of Ontario to unite Canaan owners province-wide.To further encourage and promote a better understanding of this natural breed, they produce a quarterly CCO Newsletter (The Canaan Quarterly) and run a discussion group list for CD owners in Canada and fanciers from other countries. They are members of the Canaan Dog Club of America, and members and officers of the Israel Canada Dog Club of America. Michelle is the columnist for the Canaan Dog Rescue Network (CDRN). The CDRN is a volunteer organization established in July 2004 with the mission of helping owners, breeders, and shelters pair Canaan Dogs in need of a new home with a forever home. Michelle & Larry grew up in Ontario, in towns (Unionville and Markham) north of Toronto . They moved to their dream province Alberta in 2008. They reside in Raven, which is located northwest of Edmonton (2 hours), and 1 hour from Calgary. They live on a beautiful 160 acre farmland with three forests, two lakes, and a view of the mountains from their kitchen window! Their Canaan pack has adapted well to their new large “backyard”, and are enjoying the freedom of having their own private trails for daily hikes and exercise. The Canaan crew is waiting patiently for Michelle and Larry to add their flock of sheep to herd and manage! Larry and Michelle have a particular passion for performance events and their Canaans continue to keep them active in the herding community and obedience sports. They can't remember what life was like pre-Canaan! |
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