My husband and I (Giorgio and Stephanie) have two daughters, Savannah 19 years old and Athena 17 years old – diagnosised with Rett Syndrome.  Both girls suffer from allergies.  In the past we owned small non-shedding dogs and the girls seemed to tolerate them.  Also, I did not want a shedding dog.  We chose to explore the idea of a standard poodle because of the allergies and to enable Athena to be able to interact better with a dog knowing it would be an ideal size with an outstanding temperament.

Upon arriving at Balsam Ridge we noticed a well kept yard with an extensive dog run.  As we approached we were greeted by four beautiful adult standard poodles.  The dogs were very well behaved and extremely good looking.  This was an everlasting, impressive moment that our family will not forget.

Jan and Doug welcomed us into their home with courtesy and kindness asking questions and getting to know us.  We were asked to take precautions before entering the nursery, which meant removing our outerwear and washing our hands for the pup’s safety.  These measures as well as the clean environment where the pups were kept showed us that Jan and Doug had a well cared for litter and home for their pack.

Jan and Doug spent some quality time with us as we played with the pups and asked them all sorts of questions.  They displayed a great deal of knowledge as well as patience as we could not decide on which of their beautiful pups to choose.

All the pups in the litter had stunning features and unique markings.  We finally chose a female apricot who we decided to call Chloe.  Chloe came home with us 3 weeks later.  Her ability to adapt to a new home was wonderful.  She seemed to fit right in with our family.  She loved to play; she loved attention and learned to obey with impressive intelligence.  She was always ready to learn something new even at such an early age and willing to please each of us.  Our family was so delighted with Chloe that we contacted Jan and Doug once again to purchase another pup.

Axel came into our lives and melted our hearts with his loveable gentleness.  He is cuddly, easy going and a pleasurable addition to our family.  He is laid back and calm but learns quickly like Chloe.  He’s always by your side, a constant companion.

Both of our pups interact amazingly with children and adults, but most impressively with special needs children.  We had the opportunity to bring the pups to Athena’s school where a classroom of exceptional children met Chloe and Axel.  Some children made loud noises, others hand poor limb control and waved their arms about, all the while both pups were well behaved, not scared, not nervous, not jumping all over them but displayed utmost friendliness and sociability.

All in all our experience with Balsam Ridge, Jan and Doug and our two pups was amazing and rewarding.  We are compliment continuously on the appearance of our dogs and constantly asked if they are show dogs.  We are proud of Chloe and Axel they come from good stock and it is evident.