My story began in Romania, under the oppressive weight of communism, where life was painted in shades of gray, defined by scarcity and struggle. Yet even amid this turmoil, a vibrant tapestry of love and hope was woven through the poodles that graced our home. I was only six years old, but the memories remain etched in my heart like sacred texts. We didn’t have much, but my father’s unwavering love for poodles was a steadfast beacon in the fog of our daily existence. While possessing quality dogs wasn’t a priority during those challenging times, the act of preserving a lineage—a connection to the past—was something he refused to relinquish, a testament to his belief in the beauty of tradition and continuity.

In the swirling chaos of a post-revolutionary society, poodles provided a semblance of stability—a small, living thread of beauty and loyalty that anchored us in a world otherwise fraught with uncertainty. Each dog was not merely a pet but a custodian of memories, a silent witness to our lives, binding us together through unspoken understandings and shared moments of joy and sorrow. I recall standing in the dog shows of our small city, often alone, while my parents toiled away in their efforts to keep our family afloat. Those early mornings were filled with the scent of damp grass and the soft sounds of paws padding against the ground, blending with the distant melodies of life unfolding around me. For me, these shows represented a tether to something greater than myself—a lifeline through which I navigated the tumult of adolescence and uncertainty. Winning was never the focus; it was the connection—the bond forged in the show ring, the gentle touch of fur, and the warm gaze of a dog that felt like home.

The Sacrifices of Love and the Pursuit of Dreams

My parents dreamed of a different life for my sister and me, one that involved the pursuit of classical music. They poured their dreams into us, sacrificing their comforts for our futures. I still remember the moment my father sold his beloved parrots to buy us a piano. It was an act of profound love that came at a great personal cost, yet it reflected his deep belief in investing in our future. That sacrifice would become a cornerstone of my understanding of love—the willingness to give up something precious for the betterment of others.

As I attended boarding school to immerse myself in music, the poodles remained my solace, patiently awaiting my return each weekend. Their wagging tails and eager eyes greeted me like old friends, filling my heart with warmth. These dogs were not merely companions; they were my teachers, offering lessons in love, loyalty, and resilience. Through their playful antics, I learned about the joys of living in the moment, about unconditional love that transcends language, and about the resilience that comes from forming bonds with those we cherish.

The heartbreak of losing a cherished poodle to illness was a profound lesson in the fragility of life. It taught me that joy and sorrow are often intertwined, that the beauty of life lies in its impermanence. I discovered the importance of embracing each moment, of celebrating the small victories while preparing to face the inevitable losses. The joy of welcoming a new litter of puppies was a poignant reminder of renewal, a glimpse of how life always finds a way to continue, despite the hardships we endure.

A New Beginning in America

At 21, I left Romania and embarked on the daunting journey of immigration to the United States. It was a leap into the unknown, leaving behind everything familiar to build a new life across the ocean. The shadows of my past followed me, yet I carried with me the legacy of my love for poodles. I remember the moment I purchased my first dog, Ozzie, an act that marked the beginning of a new chapter. Though he wasn’t show quality, he opened doors to new experiences and connections that would shape my path.

Through Ozzie, I first met Kaz Hosaka, a pivotal figure in my journey. Under his mentorship, I began to explore the world of dog shows in the U.S. for the first time. Kaz was a wellspring of knowledge and experience, instilling in me the importance of dedication and hard work. I still remember his wise words: “You have to give your all; otherwise, it won’t work.” These words echoed in my heart as I navigated the show rings, learning the intricate dance of handling, grooming, and understanding the nuances of each poodle’s unique personality. I grew more passionate about my craft and deepened my connection with this extraordinary breed.

Soon after, I imported Julia from Canada, a pivotal moment in my life that filled me with pride. Julia represented not just a beautiful dog but also a step toward my dreams—she was my first pride and joy in the competitive arena of showing dogs in the United States. I felt a surge of hope and purpose, an addition with the lineage my father had nurtured years before. With each new experience, I found myself embracing the culture of dog showing in America, from the vibrancy of the shows to the camaraderie among fellow breeders and handlers.

It was during this time that I met Mary Ann Di Rocco, my co-breeder and mentor, who would play an essential role in shaping my understanding of breeding practices in US. Our shared vision for producing healthy, happy dogs forged a strong bond between us. Together, we explored the rich heritage of poodles and committed ourselves to the ideals of conscious breeding, emphasizing the importance of health and temperament over mere aesthetics.

The Awakening: Momoci’s Journey and the Limitations of Western Medicine

Amid the joys of showing and breeding, life presented me with a profound challenge: my beloved poodle, Momoci. Her journey forced me to confront the limitations of conventional Western medicine. Momoci’s health struggles were a wake-up call, illuminating a harsh reality that many pet owners face. As I navigated the complexities of her care, I found myself increasingly disillusioned with a system that often prioritized medication over natural healing.

In the depths of my heart, I understood that I needed to expand my perspective. The love and bond I shared with Momoci became a catalyst for my transformation as a breeder and caretaker. I delved into the world of holistic approaches, seeking alternative therapies that resonated with my innate understanding of animal care. This journey of discovery revealed a vast universe of natural remedies, nutrition, and preventive care that had the potential to enhance the lives of my dogs significantly.

Through this awakening, I realized that I had the power to influence not only Momoci’s life but also the lives of all the poodles under my care. I began to embrace a natural, species appropriate philosophy that prioritized not just survival but thriving—a philosophy rooted in respect for the innate wisdom of nature and the deep connections we share with our animals. This realization cemented my commitment to breeding poodles that were not only beautiful but also robust and healthy, defying the troubling trends of compromised genetics and health issues.

Lessons of Adaptation, Perseverance, and Love

The journey of caring for Momoci taught me that the essence of love is to adapt and persevere. I learned to advocate for her, exploring avenues beyond traditional veterinary care. I consulted holistic veterinarians, sought out natural therapies, and embraced a whole-dog approach that emphasized not just her physical health but her emotional and psychological well-being. These experiences transformed my understanding of what it meant to be a responsible breeder and guardian.

Momoci became the embodiment of resilience—a testament to the bond we shared and the lessons we had learned together. In her journey, I found clarity about my purpose as a breeder and as a steward of these incredible creatures. I realized that my role extended beyond producing show-quality poodles; it was about nurturing lives, fostering connections, and celebrating the joys and challenges that come with caring for them.

Breeding for a Brighter Future

As I continued my journey with poodles, the fabric of my experience began to intertwine with the rich tapestry of European breeding practices. Collaborating with my parents, I sought to harness the wisdom and expertise of highly experienced breeders across Europe, focusing on the vital importance of genetic diversity. This was not merely a choice but a commitment—a pledge to ensure that the lineage we cherished remained robust and resilient against the diseases that often plague our beloved breeds.

Working alongside these seasoned breeders was like entering a world of intricate knowledge, a realm where every decision was steeped in science, history, and a profound love for the dogs we nurtured. We delved into the complexities of genetics, understanding the nuances that could strengthen our lines and mitigate hereditary health issues. Each canine health seminars I attended became a stepping stone in my journey, a pathway leading to deeper insights into canine health and well-being. These experiences were a source of inspiration, igniting a flame of passion that propelled me forward in my mission to care for my poodles naturally.

The pursuit of knowledge became an unending quest. I immersed myself in a never-ending array of books, absorbing the wisdom of those who had come before me, learning about the latest research in veterinary care, nutrition, and natural practices. Along the way, I encountered a myriad of superheroes — alternative or holistic veterinarians, dedicated breed owners, and passionate advocates for canine health who were all working tirelessly to keep dogs thriving amidst the threat of debilitating diseases. Their stories of perseverance and success fueled my resolve to adopt a natural approach to caring for my poodles, one that honored their innate vitality and resilience.

The Lessons of Experience and Resilience

As I forged ahead, the lessons I learned were often accompanied by heartache. The consequences of decisions made years ago haunted me, particularly when I reflected on the choices I made in an attempt to protect my poodles. I had sought out traditional veterinary care, believing it to be the safest route, only to discover that the very interventions I chose sometimes carried unforeseen consequences. Today, my beloved Pipper stands as a testament to this ongoing battle against tick disease—a battle reminiscent of my struggles with Julia and Karina.

Pipper, much like Momoci, has faced immense challenges, her body worn by the trials of illness and the weight of time. Yet, through this struggle, I have come to understand a profound truth: the canine body, when provided with the right environment and care, possesses an extraordinary capacity to heal itself. My commitment to Pipper is unwavering; she is not just a dog but a cherished member of my family, a soul intertwined with mine in a bond that transcends the ordinary. My resolve to not quit on her stems from a deep understanding that the love we share can be a potent force in her recovery.

These dogs have given me opportunities and struggles alike—each moment spent with them has been a lesson in resilience and determination. They have shaped my journey, instilling in me the wisdom that every setback is an opportunity for growth and every challenge a lesson in the power of love and care. As I continue this journey, I am more committed than ever to ensuring that my poodles not only survive but thrive, drawing from the lessons of the past to forge a brighter future.

In every challenge, there is an opportunity to grow, to evolve, and to deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. The poodles have been my lifelong teachers, guiding me through the complexities of love, loss, and renewal. As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded that the threads of love and devotion are intricately woven into the fabric of our lives, binding us to the past and illuminating the path toward a brighter future.

Thus, my journey with poodles continues, a legacy built on love, resilience, and a profound commitment to nurturing the bond between humans and their canine companions. And as I look to the horizon, I know that there are still countless lessons to learn, adventures to embark upon, and poodles to cherish along the way.