My name is Erin Eichler, and I have loved dogs for as long as I can remember. My family has always had dogs, but they haven't always been "Dog People". I was raised around Golden Retrievers because that is my mom's breed of choice. When I was about 4 years old my parents adopted a german shepherd mix from the local vet. I fell in love with him immediately, and after my parents divorce I started training him. I read every dog training book available from then on. I was hooked. In 1995, after much nagging, my mom and I decided that I was old enough for a dog of my own. I already knew I wanted an Australian Cattle Dog. Of course, my mom, being a single parent wasn't exactly willing to spend much on a dog so I settled for a cattle dog mix, who I named Terra.

She, of course helped my love for the breed develop. Later on down the road, I found out about dog shows and of course, wanted to try it out. I started in junior showmanship with my family's 12 year old Golden Retriever, Cruiser.

We did well, and for the next two years I showed in juniors and in the breed ring with a basenji. After much thought, I decided it was time to get the breed I originally wanted in the first place. I went looking for a cattle dog. I met Kris Bumsted of Woodag Cattle dogs at the Tulsa, OK show in November 2001 and the rest is history.

I have been showing dogs now for about 6 years. I travel with some really great people and often get asked to handle dogs for others.

This is me showing a friend's collie, Ch. Nightwood's Schaladon Dreamer, "Sophie" in the group ring at the Hot Springs Kennel Club dog show 2005.

I started out in conformation, but now I compete in everything I can. Of course, finding the time to do it all is hard. Since training was my first love, I spend a lot of time working with the dogs. I can usually be found at any random field in town pulling out a set of weaves or a couple of jumps just to get in a little extra practice.

Although, I am working on building a breeding program, breeding is not my first priority. All dogs must be sound and healthy before breeding. I OFA hips and elbows, BAER test ears, CERF eyes yearly, and use Optigen's PRCD test for PRA. I really do strive to produce an "all-around" dog. The dog who can compete in all venues and have the drive to last all day. A dog who does not have the health, or temperament to do this does not belong in a breeding program.

My dogs are all members of the family. They all live in the house, and go with me wherever possible.

Carrie on Vacation summer 2005.

Carrie retrieving her toy out of the Gulf of Mexico, Vacation 2005