Finnegan is owned and loved by John Maness, Dennis Sanders and co-owned with Sue Squires. Finnegan’s father, (DeSoto BIS BISS CH Daisydot Checkered Flag,) was my first Dalmatian, truly the love and joy of my life. In addition to his gentle temperament and playfulness, he loved showing in the ring. With his first paw in the show ring, he was all business and style, making him a handler’s dream for co-owner Dennis and for me.

“As Ian passes his 13th birthday, I cannot help but reflect on a life well lived. Ian finished his championship in five shows and finished by going Best of Breed over seven specials.”

Jim & Pat Bugay got their first Dalmatian in 1977. Her name was Dottie. This Dalmatian started a lifetime love affair with Dalmatians.

Although the usual meaning of “puppy love” is an adolescent crush, in dogs it can mean that immediate feeling when you know a puppy is the perfect one for you. That’s how I reacted in Orlando when I saw Connie Wagner bring puppy Beatrice (now GCH Spotlight Beatrice Shadow Run) to the ring for her first shows in December, 2017. Just days over six months, this girl was the picture of pure joy: gorgeous black markings, stunning movement, and the sweetest, most outgoing personality one can imagine in a Dalmatian.