Submitted by: Christina Barbon on Feb 16, 2015
I came to be interested in the Italian Spinone breed for cultural reasons. I had never owned a pure bred dog, so I was very uneducated about how to find a responsible and qualified breeder. It was recommended that I attend a show where I could see the dogs "live" and meet some breeders. It was there that I met Suzanne Hudson. I was struck by her passion for and dedication to the breed. While I did not have any intention of purchasing a dog at the time, I found myself being interviewed for the position of "Spinone Owner". I learned a lot through her questions and information. This left a positive and lasting impression on me, because it is immediately obvious that Suzanne's mission is NEVER about selling dogs. Instead, it is about 1) promoting the breed 2) ensuring healthy lines are maintained 3) NEVER deviating from the original breed standard from Italy, and 4) making sure that each placement has a happy ending for everyone involved. Suzanne does a lot of careful planning and research to ensure the optimal combination of sire and dam. She also goes to great lengths to make sure that the puppies and dogs are the right fit for the potential owners, and remains a vital contact, support and friend to all the owners she has provided dogs to. She is direct and truthful about the possible challenges of owning this breed, so that each potential owner may have realistic expectations; however, she also has first-hand experience with the wonderful traits of this breed, and is extremely knowledgeable about the cultural heritage and significance of the breed.
Suzanne is also careful in her selection of owners who desire a pet, a hunting dog and/or a show dog. This ensures that each owner gets what they want, and each dog gets the life they deserve and can meet their full potential. In terms of the care of the puppies and the mother while she is pregnant, I don't think I have ever witnessed such careful attention. All of her dogs have better health care than most humans! Suzanne spares no expense to ensure that mother and puppies remain healthy throughout the process from fertilization and pregnancy to weaning. After the puppies are born, they and the mother take up a significant part of Suzanne's living space in her home, where she is able to watch over them, and ensure that they are well-socialized to humans, everyday noises and other dogs, with the focus on safety and health at all times. I would highly recommend Suzanne Hudson as a breeder!
Submitted by: Denise on Feb 09, 2015
I own two wonderful Spinoni from Venticalmi and couldn't be happier with their lovely dispositions and temperament. I can attest to them being raised in a caring, loving environment as puppies and much care and thought goes into finding them the perfect home. I have a brother and sister from the same litter and they are now 4 years old and the loves of my life. Suzanne and I continue to be in touch and know I can always count on her help if I ever need it and know that the lifelong welfare of her dogs is of the utmost importance to her. I feel blessed that she considered me to own not one but two of her lovely puppies.