The Big E – Enough Is Not Enough

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218 – July, 2026

By Elaine Lessig

Once upon a time, very long ago, my husband and I made our first trip to England to visit two breeders whose acquaintance we made at a specialty show in San Diego, California. In talking with each other, we discovered we had a lot in common. We both had acquired Cavalier King Charles Spaniels from the same line, and had several dogs related to each other. Both of the gentlemen were eager for us to visit them. The opportunity to actually see their dogs and those from other breeders in England was too good to refuse.

In those days, the only way to communicate was through letters and expensive long distance phone calls. Being able to see dogs from several different breeders was exciting. At that time, I had already purchased a beautiful tricolor bitch puppy, sight unseen, from a well-known breeder. Going to see her kennel was to be the highlight of our visit. Our hosts planned for us to visit other kennels, too, during the time we were there. Back then, my own breeding program was in its infancy. I had studied the breed for quite awhile and knew what I wanted. I was well-prepared to be face to face with the dogs and their breeders.

First of all, I wanted to meet the breeder of my glamorous tricolor. My friends made arrangements for us to go out to the countryside to see her and the dogs. Early that morning, the phone rang. Unfortunately, her father died during the night. She was unable to see us. I understood and sympathized with the situation, but disappointment kept creeping into my thoughts. Off we went to see some lovely English gardens and enjoy a delicious lunch at an historic country house hotel.

Click here to read the complete article
218 – July, 2026

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