In any responsible breeding program, there are numerous reasons why a particular dog is not to be an on-going part of the breeding program.  Young or middle-aged dogs are occasionally available if I feel it is in the best interest of the particular dog to be placed in a carefully-screened pet home or another breeder home.  My "geriatrics" stay for life.  Many people realize the advantages of adopting a well-socialized, house-trained dog rather than an 8-week-old puppy, and it can be a perfect situation benefiting both the particular dog and the adoptive family.  No more competing with numerous other dogs for attention, but exclusive attention from a loving family!  My heart may break when they leave, but I'm eventually comforted by the fact that  he or she will be the center of life for some wonderful family.  And everyone who knows Labs knows that, no matter how old, they have an unbelievable desire and ability to bond with anyone who shows them love and affection ... and feeds them!

I require that the prospective family come and visit and allow plenty of time for the family and the dog in question to get to know each other in various situations.  We all must agree that it is a "match made in heaven".  The reason(s) for placing the dog will be fully and honestly disclosed and a written guarantee will be issued.  A week or two should be devoted to the adjustment period but, if for any reason, it appears not to be working out, I will immediately take the dog back and refund any money paid.  Prospective adoptive families should be prepared to give a comprehensive dissertation regarding their desire for adopting an adult dog, their expectations, their family environment, lifestyle, facilities, etc.   

If you're looking for a nice adult Lab or older puppy, please call or e-mail your inquiry.  I try to keep a list for future placements but you should check back frequently. 

Gizmo - has been placed and doing wonderfully! Gizmo is ready to retire.  As hard is this is on me, I have had to come to the realization that it would be best for him to go to the perfect pet home.  Since he's too closely related to most of my girls, I haven't used him at stud recently and having girls in heat is too frustrating on him.  Gizmo has a fabulous pedigree and is the sweetest "teddy bear" you'd ever want.  (A great bed partner!)  He loves people, other dogs and tries so hard to please, is a good traveler.  More than anything, he wants to be near people, although he loves to swim and retrieve.  House, crate trained, well-mannered.  He is champion pointed and has a "Best Puppy" win. Click on the picture to go to Gizmo's page for more information.

Lizzy - has been placed and very happy! Lizzy is ready for her forever home.  I hate to face this as she's a beautiful girl bringing to me the respected Blackthorn bloodlines.  She is major pointed, showy and spirited, and should be finished.  Unfortunately, she has had to have 2 c-sections resulting in only 4 big puppies and I don't want to put her there again.  Thus, I will only place her in a good pet home and she must be spayed.  Lizzy is house, crate and lead trained, a good traveler and very responsive to direction.  She is very well behaved but a bouncy, happy girl and would LOVE to have some kids to play with, retrieve balls, etc. Click on the picture to go to Lizzy's page for more information.