New member intro...and request for advice, recs, etc. on English Lab breeders

[lablover12]

Just stumbled across the site, liked what I saw, and joined a little while ago. Recently, we had to say goodbye to our beloved Peter, a 3-yr old English Lab, after a 5-mo fight with lymphoma. Absolutlely heart-wrenching, particularly since our 10-mo old boy was just starting to understand and appreciate him. While we're still grieving, we're also realizing how important it is to have an otter-tailed family member -- but are extremely sensitive about potentially bringing home a new pup that also has a genetic abberration (note that all of Peter's papers theoretically checked out, as did those of his parents).

I've heard a lot about Endless Mountain Labs, and would like to get others' thoughts, experiences, etc. on them. We live in the DC area, so there are obviously lots of English Lab breeders around us -- would like to do some homework before going out and speaking with prospective breeders, etc.

Thanks in advance -- feel free to send a PM regarding the above.

[LuvBrown]

Keep looking. Check out the breeder listings through the LRC of the Potomac.

[Tanya]

keep looking. if you use the search function on the top left of the screen you will find info on them.

or better yet I did it for you, see results of threads with that reference here: http://www.justlabradors.com/forum/s...earchid=186088

[Dani]

Here's a number of clubs in the NE:

The Iroquois Labrador Retriever Web Site
LRCP Home
WELCOME TO MID-JERSEY LABRADOR RETRIEVER CLUB, INC
http://www.jerseyskylandslrc.com/

They can give you a referral.

[labby]

English or American Lab?

[nellies mom]

You might also consider a rescue. Go to LRR.org.

[Sophiesmama]

Do you prefer English over American? I am so sorry for your loss. Peter was so young!! Lymphoma is one of those things that can't be predicted. You just have to do the best you can, and find a reputable breeder that has all the clearances. Even then, things just happen sometimes. We lost our 12 yr old last May, and are still grieving for her. We got Sophie in June and she has helped so much with our grief. She's a sweetheart and we love her so much. I have been a neurotic worrier since losing our Maggie. I fret and worry over Sophie all the time! I think finding another pup to love is moving in the right direction. Good luck and I hope you find what you are looking for.

[lablover12]

Thank you so much for the helpful responses (and sympathy). While we'll never be able to replace our Peter, and wouldn't dishonor his spirit in trying to do so, we are drawn to the idea of another black, male English Lab.

We've received some useful tips on places to look (or avoid, as per my original question). Assuming glowing reviews for reputable breeders in the DC / VA / MD area are permitted, please feel free to pass those along; makes wading through all the options a bit easier, particularly if from the lab loving community...

[MeAndMyLabs]

Definitely check out the LRCP website's litter listing page.

I sent you a PM with some other recommendations. Not sure you can receive PMs or not though with only two posts.

[Sophiesmama]

When we lost Maggie, my first impulse was to find another fox red female. They are sometimes harder to find. So once I started looking in ernest, I began to think that maybe I should go with a different color. To be honest, I am glad we did. I find myself calling Sophie "Maggie" everyonce in awhile, and at first when I slipped and called her that, I would burst into tears. Now, sometimes I swear Sophie is channeling Maggie! She does things I thought only Maggie would do! Now, I am glad I went with chocolate. Maggie was the only Maggie, and my special girl. Sophie is Sophie, and I fear I might have read too much of Maggie into her, especially if they were the same color. It may not apply to you, but I thought I would share with you my experiences. Good luck with whatever you decide. I do believe a puppy will help you move forward from Peter's loss.