Welcome

Thank you for visiting my hobby site. I’ve had Borzoi since 1984, along with many other creatures furred, hooved, 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. 

 

Why Borzoi? 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 horses and dogs. Growing up, our family had a few purebreds (Poodles, Labrador Retrievers, Great Danes), numerous “multi-cultural” pets, and a hobby farm with cattle, goats, chickens, ponies, and rabbits. As a teen, I spied a Borzoi in Mom’s big dog book. Their beauty, grace, and noble appearance captured my imagination. 

 

Prior to my 25th birthday, my folks asked what I wanted. “A Borzoi“ I replied naively, without the slightest idea of how to obtain one. It should be noted, I'd never even seen one in person. I discovered a listing for Borzoi puppies in the classified section of Dog Fancy magazine. I knew the breed came in all colors but loved black. I'd grown up with black Poodles, black Labs, and black Great Danes. The Vermont kennel of Kostenov advertised a litter of black pups, so that is how I acquired my first Borzoi. She was a black pup with rusty points I called Isadora. What a wonderful creature. I was forever smitten. Over time, I added more Borzoi, met others who were equally smitten, and began an earnest study and enjoyment of the breed. 

 

Professionally, I’m a multi-disciplinary creative. If you're curious about what that means, please visit veniharlan.com. 

 

This site is just a fun way to share my hounds, imagery, and adventures.​ I hope you enjoy wandering through its pages.

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veni