Ethical- Responsible-Preservation Labrador breeder~ Darlynn

What STARTED AS A HOBBY (back in 1986 / training my own dogs), quickly turned into my career, over 34 years ago in southern Maine, working with clients in their  homes...Soon, the local veterinary clinic (WVC) Wells Veterinary Clinic, approached me asking to conduct group training classes in conjunction with them . With the assistance of WVC, group classes began in Wells ME located in a small building, on the beach of all places!

Through time, I felt the need to give the business a  new name instead of simply using;

 Darlynn Tracy / CANINE COUNSELOR.

 THE RIGHT PAW Obedience School
arrived in central Massachusetts  around 1993. 

I did sell the training business back in 2020 after a successful 31+ year run <3

My training experience consisted of Field Trial work, Agility, Obedience, Search & Rescue, Tracking, Confirmation, Earth Dog, Rally, Frisbee, FAST CAT & even Lure Coursing.  At one point I even created a stage performance  incorporating individual tricks put to music ; ‘Trouble with 'Amazing' Mandy (one of my first Labradors) and 'Calamity' Cliff (a well bred English Mastiff) MANDY was a wonderful dog with a heart of gold and a temperament to match.  Though her confirmation left much to be desired. Lets just say its a good thing I didn't try to 'show her' back then.  I would have been very disappointed and may not have pursued any further within the 'Sport of purebred dogs'.  Choosing the OBEDIENCE ring FIRST was a good choice, as I now look back.  The judges were kind and encouraging as were the competitors. It was a great place to start my journey into the world of dogs.

Like many before me, I learned the hard way, what purchasing a 'back yard' bred dog entails. Mandy struggled with physical ailments through out her life. Though backyard bred, she had the wonderful Labrador temperament.... What she may have lacked in looks (The classic English Labrador look),  was  certainly made up for in /as they say/ HEART.  

Through my love of this little dog, came the commitment to "Do things better, If ever I were to breed dogs"...

It took many years and  various RESCUES, before I finally purchased my first health tested Labrador from a reputable Labrador breeder. (one of my obedience clients actually) My goal back then, and is to this day; 

Breed Healthy, Attractive dogs with wonderful temperaments! 

 Dogs that can 'work' yet be good house companions,

 dogs that can 'do it all' . 

 I feel that is what I have done for over 23 years.... There is a common saying within my peers, that I love and say often; "There's no reason to hunt behind an ugly dog."

My dogs are NOT BRED TO BE HUNTERS specifically, but they should have the instinct TO BE A GOOD HUNTER. 

BELHAVEN dogs have excelled as;  Assistance dogs, therapy dogs, Police COMFORT dogs, competitive obedience dogs, gentleman hunters, scent dogs and my personal favorite...loved companions for many  'special' children and their families.

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 My breeding dogs are certified through the OFA /Orthopedic Foundation Association) to include;

HIP, PATELLA, SHOULDER, ELBOW, HEART, even the HOCKS are evaluated through the OFA.

This is very important to me

 and should be very important to you !

 DNA testing for genetic markers proving they don't carry illnesses you don't want your puppy to have. Dogs are CLEARED FOR; EIC, PRA, DILUTE GENE, NARCOLEPSY, LONG COAT, COPPER TOXICOSIS (CT) amongst much more...

All breeding dogs are examined by a licensed Ophthalmologist and a certified Cardiologist. 

 All of this so as to provide the healthiest puppy I can for my new owners. All pups are health certified by a licensed veterinarian, given their first set of vaccinations, have been chipped and AKC registered prior to leaving Belhaven Kennel. Crate training has begun  assisting  in the housebreaking process for the new owners.  Pups are socialized, exposed to varied life experiences prior to 8 weeks of age. All pups come with a contractual agreement to include limited registration keeping the breeding to the breeders, unless other arrangements have been made..  IF FOR ANY REASON owners can no longer care for their dog, dog is  TO BE RETURNED TO ME and is NEVER to be placed in a shelter or a rescue. 

 In my free time you may find me hiking the woods, kayaking, fishing or riding one of my horses on the trails of New England, or perhaps advising one of my puppy owners. My family has grown extensively since I began breeding and I am blessed to have these great people in my life! 

  I am the proud mother of three wonderful sons and the wife of an exceptional man... that loves me! (that is not always an 'easy' task)