The Missing Link. Could it be the breeding practices causing these negative side effects in so many puppies?

This is Sandy my ball crazy dog

When searching for a new or first-time dog, we often have a specific breed in mind and seek out a breeder who breeds them. Once we locate a breeder, we might visit and evaluate the their breeding practises and their premises to ensure it is clean and professional. In some instances, we also look for reviews to check for any negative feedback.

Let's say they have no negative reviews, and you decide to buy a puppy from them and the elite breeder will now impose various conditions on how to raise the pup, what it should eat, and when you can alter it. However, you must collect your puppy no later than 49 days after birth. They refer to this as the 'golden moment' for imprinting on the new owner, asserting that extensive research supports this as the ideal time for a pup to leave its mother. But hold on... is that truly all what matters here? Is it ignoring the possible lasting negative side effects of leaving the litter too early?

When you search online, it suggests the litter should remain together for at least 8 weeks, usually equating to 56 days. So on top of the litter being primarily cared for by the mother, this means they get an additional week with their litter mates before eternal separation. So, does all that effort sound like it can be quite exhausting? A few weeks of cleanup and then a week of supervising a litter of the most cutest of all breeds? (I'm a bit biased, I know)

To clarify, imagine you are a top breeder of show Labs and have a Labrador mother and a litter of 12 puppies. She needs daily care, food, and a clean environment for herself and the new litter. After five weeks, you start introducing solid food, and the puppies get socialization and corrections from their mother while you continue to clean and feed them. By day 49, so another 2 weeks, that golden moment has arrived when you get to sell all those lovely pups, unless you have one that is just too exceptional to part with, that is.

Now you can earn $42,000 by selling all the puppies at $3,500 each. So including the mother's 9-week pregnancy, you spent a total of 16 weeks caring for her and her litter, averaging $2,600 per week. And some puppies might be exceptional enough to warrant at least $5,000 each. That's a pretty good income for someone that cleans a litter stall and feeds some hungry puppies for a couple of weeks. Not bad at all.

You can safely breed your champion Lab twice a year and might have multiple litters at the same time. For many breeders, this is just a side business. I must acknowledge that unless you have several Dams producing litters, it's not a sustainable income. Unfortunately, it often appears to be a money-making venture for those who don't consider the puppies' future, as long as they get the pups out as early as possible and get paid.

Bear with me for a moment and you'll see where I'm going with this.

In the 4th and 5th weeks, puppies begin to see and hear. For the first four weeks, they rely solely on their sense of smell to locate their mother and find a teat, no matter the obstacles in their way. During this time, they are unable to see. Once they reach the 4th or 5th week, they start exploring and playing with their littermates. This period is crucial for developing basic social skills. However, I think we can all agree that the puppies we've welcomed into our homes could have benefited from a bit more practice with their littermates before joining us. Why, you ask?

Once the puppy joins its new family, they are expected to adhere to specific guidelines and follow the veterinarian's advice regarding vaccinations and treatments to ensure the puppy's safety. This means keeping the puppy indoors and away from other dogs or surfaces, as Parvo can persist on any surface and poses a significant threat. So, what's your strategy? You keep the puppy inside for several weeks until it's fully vaccinated and ready to explore the world. How is that working out for you? What impact does that have on the puppy's social development? As a trainer, I can observe its effects on both the puppy and the owner, and none of it is beneficial.

In my work, I encounter a diverse array of dog owners who often express feelings of confusion, fear, and uncertainty as they embark on the journey of pet ownership. Many of these individuals find themselves overwhelmed by the responsibilities and challenges that come with caring for a new puppy. This sense of being unprepared can stem from various factors, including a lack of experience with dogs, insufficient knowledge about canine behaviour, or unrealistic expectations about what it means to raise a puppy. As a result, these owners frequently feel lost, unsure of how to navigate the complexities of training, socialization, and overall care for their new furry companions.

Consequently, the puppies themselves often mirror the anxiety of their owners. When a puppy is brought into a new environment where it is surrounded by unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells, it can become increasingly anxious and unsure of how to behave. This is especially true for puppies that have been separated too early from their litter mates, as they relied heavily on their siblings for comfort and social learning. Without the guidance of their litter mates, these young dogs may struggle to develop appropriate social skills, leading to difficulties in interacting with other dogs, particularly those that do not resemble their siblings.

This situation can be quite distressing for both the puppy and the owner. The puppy, feeling insecure and anxious, may exhibit behaviours such as excessive barking, growling, or even fear-based aggression when encountering other dogs. This can create a cycle of stress, as the owner, witnessing their puppy's distress, may feel helpless and unsure of how to alleviate the situation. The emotional turmoil experienced by both parties can lead to a strained relationship, where the owner feels guilty for not being able to provide the support their puppy needs, and the puppy becomes increasingly isolated and fearful and feeling the stress from the owner.

Moreover, the lack of early socialization can have long-term effects on a dog's behaviour and temperament. Puppies that do not have the opportunity to interact with a variety of other dogs and people during their critical developmental stages may grow up to be more fearful or reactive in unfamiliar situations. This can result in ongoing behavioural issues that require professional intervention, further complicating the relationship between the owner and their pet.

The journey of dog ownership can be fraught with challenges, particularly for those who feel unprepared to handle the responsibilities that come with raising a puppy. The anxiety and uncertainty experienced by both the owner and the puppy can lead to a host of behavioural issues that can be distressing for both parties. It is crucial for new dog owners to seek guidance, education, and support in order to foster a positive and healthy relationship with their pets, ensuring that both the owner and the puppy can thrive together in a harmonious environment.

Exploring the Implications of Early Puppy Placement

Where am I heading with this? It's important to consider the broader implications of puppy placement practices within the realm of show dog breeding. While I am not aiming to place blame on show dog breeders, it raises a critical question: if the sole reason for allowing a puppy to leave the litter is that it no longer requires nursing, could there be an element of neglect involved in this decision-making process? This Golden moment might only be taking into consideration the separation from its mother and the bonding with the owner? This inquiry invites us to delve deeper into the welfare of these pups and the responsibilities of breeders.

The decision to separate a puppy from its mother and litter mates is not one to be taken lightly. Puppies undergo crucial developmental phases during their early weeks, and the interactions they have with their mother and siblings play a significant role in shaping their behaviour and social skills. The period of nursing is not just about nutrition; it is also a time for learning vital life skills such as bite inhibition, social cues, and the establishment of a healthy hierarchy within a pack. When puppies are removed from this environment prematurely, they may miss out on essential lessons that contribute to their overall well-being.

In contrast, the situation is somewhat different for working dogs. These dogs are typically engaged in tasks that align closely with their instinctual drives, such as herding, hunting, or guarding. Because of this, they often do not find themselves in the same social environments as show dogs, which are bred for aesthetic qualities and often live in more confined settings. Working dogs receive ample opportunities for physical exercise and mental stimulation through their jobs, which helps them develop a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment. This natural alignment with their instincts mitigates some of the concerns related to their early separation from their litters.

However, it is essential to recognize that even working dogs can benefit from a well-rounded upbringing that includes socialization with their peers. The experiences they gain from interacting with other dogs during their formative weeks can enhance their adaptability and confidence in various situations. Therefore, while working dogs may not face the same challenges as show dogs in terms of socialization, the importance of a nurturing environment during the early stages of life cannot be overstated.

As we reflect on these dynamics, it becomes evident that breeders must take a holistic approach to puppy placement. Rather than solely focusing on the physical readiness of a puppy to leave the litter, it is crucial to consider their emotional and developmental needs. This perspective encourages breeders to provide an additional couple of weeks for a well-rounded experience for their puppies, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in their future homes, whether they are destined for the show ring or as beloved family companions.

The Importance of Socialization Among Litter mates for a Happy and Stable Puppy

Isn't the socialization among litter mates crucial for a stable and happy pet puppy? Indeed, the interactions that puppies have with their siblings during the early stages of their lives play a fundamental role in their overall development. These interactions help them learn essential social skills, such as bite inhibition, communication cues, and the ability to navigate social hierarchies. Through play, puppies engage in behaviours that teach them how to interact appropriately with other dogs and, eventually, with humans. This socialization process is vital as it lays the groundwork for their future behaviour and temperament, ensuring that they grow into well-adjusted adult dogs and avoids any negative anti social behaviours to develop.

The Need for Preparation to Face the World

Isn't being prepared to face the world in a domesticated setting just as vital as being old enough to no longer rely on their mother for nourishment? Absolutely. The transition from a litter environment to a home setting can be overwhelming for a puppy. It is essential that they are exposed to various stimuli, including different sounds, sights, and smells, while still with their litter mates. This exposure helps them develop resilience and adaptability, which are crucial traits for navigating the complexities of living in a human world. Without this preparation, puppies may grow up to be fearful or anxious when confronted with new experiences, leading to behavioural issues later in life.

The Role of Play Fighting and Learning Bite Inhibition

Isn't play fighting and learning how hard to bite each other equally important? Yes, it is. Through play fighting, puppies learn the limits of their physical interactions. They practice controlling their bite strength, which is vital for preventing injuries during play with other dogs and humans. This learning process is facilitated by the feedback they receive from their litter mates; when one puppy bites too hard, the other will yelp and stop playing, teaching the first puppy to adjust their behaviour. This natural correction mechanism helps puppies understand the importance of gentle play and fosters their ability to engage in safe and enjoyable interactions with others.

The Significance of Maternal Corrections

Isn't receiving corrections from their mother when misbehaving significant? Certainly. A mother dog plays a critical role in her puppies' upbringing by providing discipline and guidance. When a puppy misbehaves, the mother will often intervene, using vocalizations and body language to communicate that certain behaviours are unacceptable. This maternal correction is essential for teaching puppies boundaries and acceptable behaviours. It helps them learn the consequences of their actions in a safe environment, preparing them for future relationships with both dogs and humans.

The Importance of Sharing Food

Isn't sharing food and being able to eat alongside each other important? Indeed, sharing food and eating together is an integral part of a puppy's social development. It fosters a sense of community and cooperation among litter mates. During mealtime, puppies learn to be patient, wait their turn, and respect each other's space, which are important skills for their future interactions with both dogs and humans. This sharing experience can also help reduce food aggression, as puppies learn that resources are plentiful and that they can coexist peacefully during meals.

Instilling Early Potty Habits

Isn't instilling early potty habits in a puppy before it goes to a person who has no idea how to manage it also very important? Absolutely. Early potty training breeding practices is crucial for ensuring that a puppy can adapt quickly to its new home environment without the side effects of coprophagia and poor potty training habits. Puppies that have been taught to relieve themselves in appropriate areas while still with their litter mates are more likely to carry these habits into their new homes. This early training alleviates stress for both the puppy and the new owner, as it reduces the likelihood of accidents and the need for extensive training. A puppy that has learned proper potty habits is more likely to have a smoother transition into its new life, fostering a positive relationship between the puppy and its owner from the very beginning.

In conclusion, the early experiences that puppies have with their litter mates and mother are vital for their development into well-adjusted pets. These formative interactions play a crucial role in shaping a puppy's personality and behaviour, laying the groundwork for their future as companions in human households.

From socialization and play to maternal corrections and early training, each aspect contributes significantly to a puppy's ability to thrive in a human environment. During the first few weeks of life, puppies engage in play with their litter mates, which is not merely a form of entertainment; it is an essential part of their learning process. Through play, puppies develop important social skills, such as understanding body language, establishing boundaries, and learning to communicate effectively with other dogs. This early socialization is critical, as it helps puppies learn how to interact with their peers and, later on, with humans and other animals.

Additionally, maternal corrections provided by the mother dog during this period are equally important. A mother teaches her puppies important life lessons, such as bite inhibition, through gentle, and sometimes not so gentle corrections when they play too roughly. This guidance helps puppies understand the limits of acceptable behaviour, which is crucial for their interactions with humans and other dogs as they grow older. Without this early training, puppies may struggle with negative behavioural issues later in life, such as excessive biting or difficulty in social situations.

Moreover, the environment in which puppies are raised is a significant factor in their overall development. Puppies that are exposed to a variety of experiences, sounds, and sights during their critical socialization period are more likely to become confident and adaptable adults. Conversely, those that are isolated or lack positive experiences may develop side effects of fear-based behaviours or anxiety, making it challenging for them to integrate into family life or new situations.

Therefore, I believe that breeding practices need to be scrutinized more by the public to ensure we receive stable and confident puppies. Responsible breeders should prioritize the health and socialization of their puppies, providing them with the necessary experiences that promote well-rounded development. By advocating for higher standards in breeding practices, we can help avoid negative outcomes and behaviours that may arise from poor early experiences. This scrutiny not only benefits the puppies but also enhances the overall experience for pet owners, fostering a harmonious relationship between humans and their canine companions.

In summary, the importance of early experiences cannot be overstated, as they lay the foundation for a puppy’s future behaviour and adaptability. By promoting awareness and encouraging responsible breeding, we can create a future where more puppies grow into well-adjusted, confident pets, enriching the lives of their families and communities.

I've embarked on a new adventure recently, contemplating my retirement years and how I envision spending them. This period of reflection has opened my mind to various possibilities, and one idea that particularly captured my interest was breeding Labradors. The Labrador Retriever, known for its friendly demeanour and versatility, has always held a special place in my heart. To delve deeper into this venture, I reached out to several breeders who specialize in both working and show Labradors, eager to learn more about the intricacies of this rewarding yet demanding endeavour.

During my conversations, I was particularly struck by the insights shared by a top Labrador breeder based in Canada. This breeder emphasized the immense amount of work involved in breeding these dogs, highlighting that it is not merely a hobby but a significant commitment that requires dedication, patience, and a deep understanding of canine genetics and health. The challenges of breeding Labradors are multifaceted; they range from ensuring the health and well-being of the breeding dogs to managing the complexities of the breeding process itself.

One concern she mentioned was the bully in the litter and the runt that suffered because of it. I asked how she dealt with it, and she casually said she used an old-school method—a slap on the butt. But if that was the solution, why was it still a concern for her? I tried to delve deeper, but she quickly lost interest in talking to me and decided I should find someone else to sell me a puppy. How intriguing. She dealt with a bully by bullying, not realizing it wasn't effective, and used this as a reason to justify letting the puppies go early. That's when I saw through this 'golden moment' narrative. Let me explain;

One fascinating aspect that emerged from my discussions was the critical role of the mother dog during the early stages of the puppies' lives. The litter depends entirely on their mother for the first five weeks or so, relying on her for nourishment and socialization. The breeder only has to maintain a clean space during this period. This period is crucial for the puppies' development, as they learn essential behaviours and skills from their mother and siblings.

After this initial phase, the puppies are typically kept for an additional two weeks, allowing them to mature further before they are sold and picked up by their new families. This must be the difficult and hard work she mentioned. This entire timeline, often referred to as the 49-day golden moment, is a delicate balance of nurturing and preparation, ensuring that the puppies are healthy and ready to leave their mom.

But are they well-adjusted, and ready to embark on their new lives?

As I consider this potential venture, I understand that breeding Labradors or any dog for that matter, goes beyond simply producing cute puppies; it requires a dedication to the breed and a responsibility to ensure each dog is socialized, well-behaved, somewhat potty trained, and placed in a carefully chosen, loving, and appropriate home. This journey is likely to be filled with both challenges and rewards, and I am eager to explore the opportunity to contribute to the legacy of this cherished breed while acquiring new and valuable skills and enjoying the fulfillment it brings during my retirement years. I want to implement new strategies that address the issues and help new dog owners and their puppies live great fulfilling lives.

What I don't understand is why a breeder cannot hire additional assistants to help keep the litter together for an extended period of time. This practice could significantly benefit the puppies as it would provide them the invaluable opportunity to learn essential life skills from their mother and siblings. During this critical early stage of development, puppies absorb a wealth of knowledge about behaviour, social interactions, and the basic rules of feeding. They also begin the important process of potty training, which is crucial for their future adaptability in a home environment.

The time spent with their litter mates is not merely about socialization; it is a foundational period that shapes their personalities and helps them develop crucial communication skills that will serve them throughout their lives. Moreover, many breeders focus primarily on producing the next champion, often overlooking the importance of nurturing those puppies that may not meet the strict criteria for show quality. While it is understandable that breeders wish to maximize their investment and efforts, dismissing the potential of those puppies that do not qualify can be seen as a missed opportunity.

Each puppy, regardless of their show potential, deserves a chance to develop into a well-adjusted adult dog. By keeping the litter together longer, breeders could foster an environment where all puppies thrive, allowing them to gain confidence and learn appropriate behaviours from their mother and siblings. If the prevailing attitude among breeders is that spending time on puppies that do not qualify is a waste of their precious time, then this perspective should be reflected in the pricing of these animals. The cost of a puppy should not solely hinge on their potential to win titles or accolades but should also consider the time, care, and socialization they receive during their formative weeks.

By adjusting their pricing structure to reflect the time invested in nurturing all puppies, breeders could promote a more humane approach to breeding practices. This shift could lead to healthier, happier dogs, ultimately benefiting both the animals and their future owners. Investing in the early stages of a puppy's life not only enhances their quality of life but can also lead to more responsible and informed pet ownership in the long run and less dogs in shelters and rescue centres.

I understand that this is a sensitive issue, but from my perspective, when you see these dogs arrive at daycare or for training, completely lost and their owners overwhelmed with fear and uncertainty, what is being done is practically criminal. The sight of these innocent animals, bewildered and disoriented in unfamiliar environments, tugs at the heartstrings and raises profound ethical questions about our responsibilities as caretakers of the creatures we bring into our lives. It is unjustifiable to bring a litter into the world simply to find that one champion dog, a practice that prioritizes profit and prestige over the well-being of both the animals and the families involved.

The breeding of dogs, particularly those intended for competition or show, often places an immense burden on the animals themselves. The reality is that many puppies are born into situations where their lives are dictated by the whims of human desires and ambitions. The effort required to raise these puppies into well-adjusted, healthy adult dogs is often underestimated or dismissed altogether. When breeders decide to part with these puppies after a mere 49 days, a time frame that many experts argue is far too short for proper socialization and bonding, it raises serious concerns about the motivations behind such decisions.

This practice is not only detrimental to the puppies, who are still in critical developmental stages, but it also poses significant challenges for the families seeking a puppy. Families often approach the adoption or purchase of a puppy with excitement and hope, envisioning a loyal companion who will grow alongside them. However, when these puppies are taken from their mothers and litter mates too soon, they may struggle with behavioural issues, anxiety, and difficulty in forming healthy attachments. The consequences can be devastating, leading to a cycle of abandonment and return to shelters when the reality of pet ownership becomes too overwhelming for new owners.

Furthermore, we must ask ourselves: acceptable for whom? Is it acceptable for the puppy, who is deprived of essential early life experiences and stability? Is it acceptable for the families who may not be fully prepared to handle the challenges that come with a poorly socialized dog? The answer is a resounding no. The emotional toll on both the animals and the families involved cannot be overstated. Each puppy deserves a chance to thrive in a nurturing environment, where they can learn and grow in a healthy manner, rather than being viewed as mere commodities in a transaction.

The practice of breeding dogs with the sole intent of producing a champion, while disregarding the welfare of the animals and the responsibilities of pet ownership, is a troubling trend that needs to be addressed. We must advocate for more humane practices that prioritize the health and happiness of both dogs and their future families. Only then can we begin to rectify the injustices that currently plague the world of dog breeding and ownership.

We need to hold these breeders accountable in some way. Insist that they keep the puppies for at least 8 or 9 weeks, begin potty training, and feed them individually to prevent gorging and aggressive behaviour over food. Labs are naturally food-driven, so those early lessons are crucial in addressing this issue. Producing quality dogs requires time and effort, focusing not just on their coat, head shape, tail, and stance, but also on developing a solid, calm, and friendly temperament. These dogs should be ready to join a household with children and other dogs, attend daycare, and participate in training classes.

As an obedience trainer, I don't anticipate the pup to be fully trained, but as a behaviourist, I do expect it to be a confident, happy, and eager pup, free from anxiety, stress, and fear that could hinder its success. We have an excessive number of dogs in shelters and many being abandoned too early in their lives. Why? If the imprinting of a pup is crucial to a dog's success, then there must be some accountability for the issues we face with dogs today. I know backyard breeders are also responsible, but they don't profit in the same way, yet in some ways might be producing more confident and well adjusted puppies.

Drawing from my personal experiences, I would like to share the heartfelt story of my beloved Labrador, Sandy. He was purchased from a reputable breeder, known for producing exceptional American Labradors. Unlike show Labs, Sandy was specifically bred as a working Lab, which meant he was taller, leaner, had a longer tail full of swag and was full of energy, intelligence, and an eagerness to please. His arrival at their home at 8 weeks old coincided perfectly with the festive spirit of Christmas six years ago, bringing joy and excitement to their household. However, what began as a joyous occasion quickly turned into a distressing situation for Sandy, who would only spend a mere two weeks in his new environment.

Upon his arrival, it became evident that Sandy was a lively and spirited puppy, embodying all the characteristics typical of his breed. However, instead of being welcomed into the warmth and comfort of the house, he was relegated to the backyard, where he was provided with just a simple blanket and a bowl of water. From this isolated spot, he could see through the low windows of their home, observing his new family engaging in various activities, and he was left puzzled and confused about why he had been excluded from their warmth and companionship.

The household comprised of two young girls under 3 years of age, who were initially thrilled to have a puppy to play with. However, as Sandy entered his nipping stage, his playful nature turned into a source of concern for the parents. He would often jump up in excitement, inadvertently startling the girls with his exuberance. This behaviour, while typical for a puppy, alarmed the parents enough that they decided to confine him outside, believing it was the best course of action to protect their children.

As Sandy spent his days alone in the cold winter air, the neighbourhood began to take notice of his plight. The winter that year was particularly harsh, with heavy snowfall blanketing the ground, making it even more concerning that a young puppy was left outside. Neighbours expressed their outrage and disbelief at the situation, questioning how anyone could neglect a 10-week-old Labrador puppy in such frigid conditions. It was a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with pet ownership, especially for a breed known for its sociable and friendly nature.

Amidst this turmoil, a nearby client of mine, who owned two Labs that attended the daycare I own and operate, took it upon himself to advocate for Sandy. They attempted several times to purchase him from the family, recognizing his potential as a loving companion and the unfortunate circumstances he was enduring. However, their efforts were met with resistance, and Sandy remained in his isolated state.

As complaints continued to pour in from concerned neighbours, the situation escalated to a point where the city authorities intervened. One early morning, Mike received a call from the family, who informed him that he needed to come and collect Sandy immediately. The city had contacted them and had deemed the living conditions unacceptable, and it was clear that action needed to be taken to ensure the puppy's well-being.

That is how Sandy transitioned from a neglected backyard puppy to my loyal companion and best friend at the age of almost 5 month old. Mike knew my girl Alfina had passed away a year prior to this, and that I was ready for a new dog, but I had my heart set on a small lap dog. When Mike arrived with 3 Labs, one white, one brown and a new yellow Lab, I was curious. He told me the situation and thought I should take him on. I told him I'd think about it, and within the hour, I decided to do just that. I had a new dog!

As I brought him into my home, I could see the spark of joy return to his eyes. He quickly adapted to his new surroundings, revelling in the warmth of a loving new human friend that embraced him wholeheartedly. And a pack of dog willing to play with him! Our bond grew stronger each day, and Sandy became an integral part of my life and the daycare pack. His playful antics and unwavering loyalty filled our home with laughter and love, and he is the token ball nut in daycare, often bringing up the energy to play and run. I often reflect on how fortunate I am to have rescued him from a life of neglect. Sandy not only changed my life but also taught me invaluable lessons about compassion, responsibility, and the true meaning of companionship.

When choosing your next puppy, consider the benefits your pup will receive from your investment and the amount of effort you're ready to invest in its upbringing. At Doggy Doolil daycare, we provide a safe environment with regular member dogs that are screened for health, training, and socialization. In a safe, clean, and controlled setting, it is wise to expose your young pup to as much socialization as possible. Many places offer socialization groups to join. Introduce your pup to various sounds, falling objects, loud noises, plastic bags, the vacuum—anything you can think of. It's recommended to expose them to 100 different things a day, which means about 10 things an hour. This is not difficult to achieve and is very beneficial. Also, be mindful of your actions around the dog. They observe you, and it's easier to train good behaviour than to correct bad habits you may have unintentionally taught them.

In conclusion, the practice of allowing puppies to leave the litter should be guided by a comprehensive understanding of their developmental needs. By prioritizing the overall well-being of the pups, breeders can foster healthier, more balanced dogs that are better prepared for the challenges of their new environments. This approach not only benefits the individual dogs but also enhances the reputation of the breeding community as a whole, promoting responsible practices that prioritize the welfare of these remarkable animals.

I understand that some of you may be upset by my remarks, and I'm open to discussing them. Please feel free to leave your comments below.

Warmly,

Mimi

I used AI to assist in editing this