This website is dedicated to the men and women who created, fought for, protected and now preserve the great breed we know as "Karjalankarhukoira" - the Carelian Bear Dog of Finland. In particular, I'd like to extend my humble thanks to the following individuals.

To my friend Dr. Tiina Laukkanen, for her endless and enthusiastic support. Her strength of character and determination to 'get to the bottom of things' has, on more than one occasion, been the sole reason I have stayed in the 'thick of it'.

To her father, Pentti Laukkanen, who, through Tiina's interpreting, has patiently and thoroughly answered countless "WHY's"?? and, by example, continues to demonstrate the honesty and integrity of the true Finnish dogman.

To my friends in the FSC - Suomen Pystykorvajarjesto - and the Finnish Kennel Club, for giving a 'newcomer' such a warm welcome...over and over again!!

Lastly, to my late mentor -Matti Joenpolvi. Matti took the chance that a 'foreigner' - who didn' t speak his language, lived on the other side of the world, and came to him with nothing in the way of knowledge or background - would guard and serve the breed that he loved above all else.

His guidance and counsel, along with the great dogs he 'found' for me, have shaped this kennel into what it is today...and will continue to do so for many, many years to come. Paljon kiittoksia, Matti...may your rest in Tuonela be a good one.

For those of you who care, and are, at this point, wondering about the 'typo' in the name Carelian - it is spelled correctly. Throughout this site, Carelian is spelled with either a C or a K, depending on whether or not the information is a direct quote from a source that used the 'K' spelling.

Thank you for visiting my site, and I hope that in some small way I can assist in increasing your knowledge and appreciation for this wonderful breed.

Yours In Dogs,
Dawne Deeley, Tsar Shadow
CKC Perm. Reg'd/FKC/UCK

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