Breeding champions. (Keeping Your Edge).

WHO? Patricia Hull

WHAT? Executive Director

WHERE? National Association of Professional Mortgage Women, Edmonds, Washington 

WHEN? Since 1991

Q: How did your interest in breeding and showing dogs begin?

A: My mother would probably say that it's in my genes. For as long as I can remember, I've loved animals, especially dogs. When I was a little girl, I brought home neighborhood dogs on a string, claiming that they were mine.

A number of years ago, my husband encouraged me to find a hobby to prevent my work from consuming me. I thought that showing dogs would be a good distraction--and a great excuse to get a dog.

Q: Why the borzoi breed?

A: After studying various types of dogs, I chose the borzoi, which is also known as the Russian wolfhound. Borzoi is the Russian word for swift and, therefore, appropriate for a dog bred by the Russian aristocracy for hunting. It's a noble breed with a gentle nature and an unmistakable elegance and beauty.

I rescued my first borzoi from our local humane society. I fell in love with him and after a few years got my first show dog.

I soon found that breeding is key to success in showing dogs. Breeders are quite competitive and when we have a litter of puppies, we naturally keep the best ones for ourselves. Judges examine the dogs for how well they meet that breed's specific standards in terms of body shape and movement. I did breed my first litter in August 2001.

Q: What does all this activity do for you?

A: My dogs bring a lot of joy and peace into my life. The care that I provide them--from keeping them groomed and exercised to even the scooping of the yard--is therapeutic, especially after a long, mentally exhausting workday. Dogs also have a way of bringing people together, and I've made friendships with terrific people from all over the world.

Q: How is this avocation compatible with your job?

A: Since showing dogs is a weekend activity for me, I can work the shows into my calendar. And when I do travel for my association work, my husband, David, cares for the dogs.

I've also joined specialty and all-breed dog clubs, volunteering in various capacities for both. The volunteer work has helped me gain a greater appreciation for my members and how they juggle the demands of today's fast-paced world. Now, when I'm working with members and they haven't met a newsletter deadline because of a personal crisis, I have a better understanding of what they are going through.