Barbka Novak

Slovenia

It often happens that people ask me – why Border Collie? Why don’t you breed more Cirneco dell’Etna, which has brought the name of my kennel “Seta del Oro” into the world? The answer is simple – because border collies simply enchanted me with their rustic beauty, friendliness, gentleness, loyalty, determination, playfulness, and loyalty.
I often wonder if the members of The Police had Border Collies in mind when they wrote the song “Every Breath You Take.”

Every breath you take
And every move you make
Every bond you break
Every step you take
I’ll be watching you
Every single day
And every word you say
Every game you play
Every night you stay
I’ll be watching you
Every breath you take, The Police, 1983
 
Dogs have been a part of my life since childhood. However, it wasn’t until the 1980s that I entered the world of cynology. The first Border Collie, Shep, came into my life in 1997, and today, I can’t imagine life without them. My kennel, “Seta del Oro” – golden silk, has a history spanning over thirty years. While I don’t see myself as a large-scale breeder, I am happy and proud that my dogs have been used as foundation dogs in other kennels in Slovenia, Europe, Finland, Norway and the US. Dogs from my kennel have achieved numerous champion titles, including world and European champions, lure coursing champions, and agility champions. They have also demonstrated their working abilities in herding trials, earning HWT certificates, and many continue to perform their primary duties on farms to this day. I am particularly proud that many dogs from my kennel have lived to be 15 years and older. I have been an international judge since 1993, presiding over FCI groups I, IV, V, IX, and X. Additionally, I have served as a junior handling judge for over 20 years. In the past, I have been active in various cynological fields, from leading clubs and professional committees to organizing various events, including the World Agility Championships. Currently, I serve as the Chair of the Education Committee at the Slovenian Kennel Club. As a passionate writer, I have penned numerous articles about dogs and their people, dog shows, agility competitions, and the Cirneco dell’Etna breed. My articles have been published in many countries, including the USA, and in several books. As a judge, I have presided over shows across Europe, including national and international all-breed shows, specialty shows, and European and World Dog Shows.  I reside in Kranj with my senior Border Collie, Daisy, and my adopted cat, Amber. I am grateful to be a part of such a prestigious event and look forward to meeting fellow judges and exhibitors.