
Odyssey just delivered her last puppy Oct 17, 2022
This story may challenge the beliefs of many breeders, pet owners, and members of our community. But I chose to breed for deeply personal reasons, and I share my journey in the hope of inspiring others to pursue their dreams, no matter the cost. I have no regrets about following this passion, and I hope those who read this can find the grace to forgive us.
In 2020, as the world grappled with COVID-19, I found myself unexpectedly pregnant with a partner who adamantly did not want children. He threatened to hurt me if I kept the child. His threats dawned over me, dark and heavy, as family and friends advised me to continue the pregnancy. My Christian mother wept, declaring that the child deserved a chance at life. Torn between fear and hope, I made the heart-wrenching decision to terminate my pregnancy. What followed was depression. In that brief time, I had tasted a joy I had never known before, a happiness that made me feel fiercely alive and connected to my femininity.
I had always intended to spay my dog, Odyssey, after her first year. But as the pandemic closed surgical rooms to all but emergencies, I began to wonder if spaying her without letting her experience motherhood would rob her of a vital part of her existence. Without a non-breeding contract from her breeder, I turned to research, seeking clarity in the uncertainty.

Far left: Telemachus, Athena, Penelope, Odysseus 2022
I was determined not to rush this decision. If veterinarians, geneticists, and OFAs advised against breeding, I would heed their counsel. Yet, as we explored the possibility, everything aligned. The stud and Odyssey passed all the necessary tests, and by the time we were ready for Odyssey's first litter, she was three—mature, enthusiastic, and more than ready to embrace motherhood. When they were introduced, they tied 18 times over the weekend, a whirlwind of instinct and connection. Each morning, she awoke exhausted but with an insatiable appetite, both for her Stud and life.
On October 17, 2022, four perfect puppies entered the world—two boys and two girls, two solid-colored and two bicolored. As they arrived, I found it nearly impossible not to fall in love with them. Yet, along with that love came a deep-seated fear of attachment, a dread of having to let them go. Watching Odyssey's fierce joy as she cared for her babies—refusing to leave her whelping box for the first few days—was both beautiful and bittersweet. I envied her, longing for someone to have given me the safe space to embrace motherhood.

Puppies 2nd Birthday Celebration. Missing Athena and Family
Over time, I realized that the only person I truly needed to protect myself from was me. Now, I channel that understanding into my work, helping to raise puppies throughout the city—from our own litters to those of other breeders—spanning ages from eight weeks to twelve years. My mission is to bridge the gap and ensure that every client’s puppy experience is the best it can be, fostering a supportive community for both dogs and their owners.
Breeding has been a source of healing for me; it has given me a renewed sense of purpose. Breeding has taught me even thought I am not human mother, I can be happy being a different type of mother.
Thank you,
A Dog's Odyssey
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