In Linda Wozniak’s letter to Santa at age 5, her biggest wish was to have a dog.  While it took Santa a few years to grant her wish – when she was in high school she received her first dog – an Irish Setter. Mickey was trained and competed in novice obedience – but was better known for his hunting skills – he was often “borrowed” by the neighbors during hunting season.  Sitting still was not a skill that Mickey excelled at!

When Linda moved to Halifax, she acquired a “forever friend” from the SPCA.  Barney, a terrier cross lived to the ripe old age of 17 ½ and taught Linda a LOT about patience!  While she owned Barney, Linda was introduced to dog shows through her good friend Glady Gates.  She studied about the different breeds and was smitten with the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Labrador Retriever.  Linda’s first Berner, Schubert was trained in Novice Obedience – and he sold Linda on the breed.  Next came Guinness, another Berner who received his Novice obedience title with several High in Trials – in both the US and Canada.  Beamish, a yellow Labrador Retriever joined the canine clan, and Linda was introduced to the activity of field work.   Linda and Beamish obtained their WC in one weekend.

Linda is currently “owned” by Harper a Berner, Beamish and Paxton, another Berner who just turned a year old.  Harper has been an amazing dog – who has competed in obedience, rally, agility and draft.  He has titles in all of those areas (with 2 High in Trials in obedience) and is also a Canine Good Neighbor. Linda LOVES drafting– it’s great to see Berners doing what they were bred to do.  Linda’s dogs have been regular participants in the Drill Team – an extremely rewarding activity for the dogs, owners, and most of all, the residents of the long-term care facilities that they visit. 

Linda loves dogs of all shapes and sizes – whether they are a Westminster winner or a “forever friend” rescued from a shelter.  She is passionate about promoting responsible dog ownership and the joys of being “owned” by a canine companion!