Thank you for visiting my hobby site. I’ve had Borzoi since 1984, along with many other creatures furred and feathered. My home is 3 miles from the mighty Mississippi River, an hour upriver of New Orleans, 50’ above sea level, and 150 miles from the Gulf of Mexico—deep in the heart of historic South Louisiana. 

 

HOW IT BEGAN: Animals of all kinds have fascinated and taught me about the world in which we live. I’ve kept and illustrated everything from chickens and horses to orphaned squirrels and blue jays. I was especially drawn to dogs. Growing up, our family had a few purebreds (Poodles, Labrador Retrievers, Great Danes) and numerous “multi-cultural” pets. As a teen, I spied a Borzoi in Mom’s big dog book. Their beauty, grace, and noble appearance captured my imagination. 

 

In February of 1984, I acquired my first Borzoi—a black pup with rusty points—from the Vermont kennel of Kostenov. Because of Isadora, I became forever smitten. Over time I added more Borzoi, met others who were equally smitten, and began an earnest study and enjoyment of the breed. 

 

ACTIVITIES: My dogs are first and foremost beloved companions and muses. I show in conformation, lure course, and have dabbled in Barn Hunt, obedience, and agility. A few of my hounds worked in the theater, and others modeled for artists, photographers, and ad agencies. Several have served as Canine Ambassadors, therapy dogs, and contributed to research/teaching via the LSU School of Veterinary Science and various other canine research programs. 

 

CLUB AFFILIATION: I'm a life member of BCOA (Borzoi Club of America), an official BCOA breed mentor, a founding member of Lone Star Borzoi Club, and created graphics and websites for Baton Rouge KC and the International Borzoi Club.

 

JUDGING: I have judged multiple Specialty Sweepstakes and two BCOA Futurities. Most years I chair a BCOA trophy-supported entry in Gonzales, Louisiana.

 

STEWARDSHIP: I’ve long advocated for responsible dog ownership and, to this end, am an AKC Public Education representative and have worked with NBRF (National Borzoi Rescue Foundation), as well as multiple purebred and mixed-breed organizations. (Visit Welfare for more information.)

 

READY BORZOI: The disasters of Hurricane Katrina and the Macondo oil spill drew me into domestic and wildlife rehab/rescue/foster activities in unprecedented ways. As a result of these experiences, I sought a deeper understanding of environmental issues and disaster preparedness. I created Ready Borzoi, an initiative of the Borzoi Club of America, which was developed based on these experiences. The site was recognized with a National AKC Community Achievement Award and inspired other breed clubs to establish similar resources. 

 

BREEDING: After some 30 years in the breed and several failed attempts, I whelped two litters. The 2012 Louisiana Red litter included Specialty, conformation, and performance titled dogs. The 2016 Louisiana Wild litter included a Specialty WB, conformation and lure coursing titled dogs, and a Best in Sweeps winner. I took breeding very seriously, and unfortunately, chose to devote my energies elsewhere.

 

MEDIA: I’ve enjoyed designing for multiple canine and equine organizations and photographing all creatures. This interest evolved into the Facebook group, BorzoiRule! Its primary goal is the celebration of the breed and Borzoi community. The group boasts over 12,000+ members from around the world. 

 

PROFESSION: Professionally, I’m a multi-disciplinary creative. See what that means here: veniharlan.com.

 

veni 

 

 

 

Top: Baby Luna (Specialty RWB CH Nonsuch Lac du Lune v Far Field, CGC). 

Middle left: Far Field Kisatchie after willing WB/BBE/AOM at the 2021 LSBC Specialty. 

Middle right: One of my first dogs, a black poodle named Fifi.

Bottom right: Three generations at Far Field–Beau, Rouge, Kiss.