Testimonials

Dr. Sharon Misasi & Sandra Decicco, Wallingford, CT

After losing our second Golden to cancer after just six years, we searched long and hard before finding Goldiva Goldens and Mary.

Sangiovese is an absolute joy! Her personality is warm and loving, a great addition to our family. Friends have told us that she is the most beautiful of all the four legged family members we have ever had. She loves to play ball, swim in the ocean and most importantly travel with us! She excelled at obedience school and now enjoys day care two days a week and has made lots of new friends!

We are so happy to have found a breeder that we can truly believe in and one that really cares about the Golden breed and the continued health of the line. We will never be without a Goldiva Golden (at least one)!

(Tilly x Gabe litter)

 

Denise, Kyle & Chloe - Durham, Maine

There just isn't enough space/time to truly sum it up all that Blossom means to me. To our pleasant surprise adding Blossom to our family was a seamless event. Our family situation is a bit unusual with Chloe's special needs. As a result of this, I knew that a puppy would not be the perfect choice, but I was nervous about adopting an adult dog from the local shelter. When I happened upon Mary (Goldiva Goldens) I just knew that when ready, we would adopt one of her puppies. The experience alone of walking up to her house and seeing a herd of Golden Retrievers run up to the gate to greet you- not a single dog barking, gives you a new standard by which to view dogs.

atience and gentleness know no boundary, even with a "not so gentle" 4 year old. We miss her terribly when she goes back to Mary's for breeding purposes, at least we live close and can visit the puppies frequently. I am so happy that through her puppies other people can experience having as wonderful a dog as we do. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Denise, Kyle & Chloe

(Lady x Boomer litter)

 

Photo by Nancy B Photography

Dana, Meadow, Judah (10), Gabriel (7), Lydia (3) and Ruth (3)- Bath, Maine
Our family spent a year looking for the perfect dog. With four young children, we weren't quite ready for a puppy, but we desperately wanted to add a four-legged companion to our clan -- especially for the benefit of our youngest daughter, Ruth, 3, who has cerebral palsy and is deaf. Mary suggested we come meet Sushi, one of her 2-year-olds for a boarding contract. After one visit with Sushi in Cumberland, Sushi came home to live with us the week before Valentine's Day. The kids were thrilled, and Sushi adjusted beautifully. She is well-behaved, eager to listen and lots of fun! Our two boys loving playing fetch with her and taking her for walks -- the hardest part is convincing them not to sleep on her dog bed! And Sushi is very gentle around our active 3-year-old daughter too. But I think Ruth loves Sushi best of all -- especially when Sushi licks her feet! I have never seen her so happy as the day I put her bare feet on Sushi's tummy! I am amazed at how perfectly Sushi fit into our family. She is exactly the dog we were looking for!
 
Laura Moore, Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Just a Thank You for the best dog I have ever owned! Logan is not only my Fur son, best friend and Co-Worker but he has become My son's best friend! A wonderful work/ stress relief boy for the office. He listens and is so well behaved at work everyone comes from all over just to steal a minute with him, as he contently lays at my feet chewing on his bone! Not to mention a very much requested visitors of my son's after school program and my parent's house.

Logan is funny and entertaining. Happy and well behaved all at once. He loves to work on his obedience and will absolutely be showing in September for the three day Cape Cod Show I love. Logan is also working on His Temperament Test and Therapy Dog titles and will have his testing in September as well.


Logan is also the most gorgeous dog I have ever owned. I can't wait to get another one of your dogs. I assume you can continue to breed for the next 50 years because I will never be without one of your Golden's.


Thanks again.
Laura, Anthony and Logan!

(Striker x Blossom)
Ben & Kate Lowry, Falmouth, Maine

Last year, our 6 month old golden was diagnosed with extreme kidney problems over the summer and was not expected to live to see her first birthday. Over the past two weeks, after continuing good health (at age 13 months) she has gone through a battery of tests and spaying surgery during which the surgeon got to actually see her kidneys, which everyone now agrees are perfectly formed and functioning. So, it now seems the impossible has happened and Tillie will have a normal, if not rambunctious, golden retriever life. Those of you who may wish to call this a miracle, please do so, although the solution can be found in the science, which has now taught our vet (and several other experts) something new about the development of the kidneys.

It seems Tillie had a fairly severe kidney or urinary tract infection when she was a puppy. This went undiagnosed for several, if not many, months, causing her kidneys to atrophy and not form at the proper rate. When the ultrasound was viewed by an experienced diagnostic physician, he saw tremendous damage, thus the dire prognosis. However, with antibiotics, an adjusted diet and routine growth, she beat the infection and her kidneys began to grow and re-form, leaving two healthy organs six months later. Our vet, who has been in the practice over 30 years, did not know that this could happen, and was thankful for the learning experience. Our breeder has been great and we look forward to getting Tillie a little brother from Lady x Striker.

We are overjoyed to have this news regarding our sweet, playful girl. I know our friends & family are glad to hear of this happy ending (beginning?) as well.

(Tillie is from Blossom x Higgins & Dash is from Sushi x Higgins)
Richard Rothlisberger & Bob McArdle - Falmouth Foreside, Maine

We knew we were in for something special when we first met Maggie's parents...Lady and Striker! Lady embodies her name, a gracious red-head with the irresistible combination of manners and intellect. Striker is all boxy young blonde with a penchant for play and a heart of gold. Our Maggie is the best of both...a real "pip". She is incredibly affectionate, and is most happy when touching and being touched. She favors her father in coloring and personality I believe...a vivacious and outgoing blonde who believes that everyone was put on this planet to play, and be her friend.

Maggie employs a full repertoire of "snorts" to communicate everything from anticipation to bliss, and at her current 10 months, is just sassy enough to keep things interesting. And she's beautiful! We have been so thrilled with our experience with Mary and Goldiva Goldens. Her careful breeding produces outstanding animals, and her warmth and inclusive manner during the whole process of adopting and raising a Golden Retriever puppy sets a standard that one should come to expect.


(Lady x Striker litter)

Beth Factor - Waltham, Massachusetts

Things are going great here with Caleb and Alec. Alec is 10 months, now his body is close to fully developed. Like Caleb, he already stands as a golden should. You will be proud to know that someone stopped me the other day, and said my two dogs stood "regally", like no other dogs they'd ever seen. She said they looked like they "knew they were special", which of course they do, because they are two spoiled little babies. That is because they are so wonderful though. It is so easy to spoil them!!!
Alec's training went well from the moment he arrived home. Having Caleb, who is relatively well-behaved, really helps. Caleb sits for everything, he knows he must, so Alec learned sit by the end of his 1st week home. He learned "down", laying down, "front", coming to my feet when called, and starting to get the ball and bring it back to me quickly. Now, he and Caleb are able to run off-leash together and chase each other around in circles, barking and wrestling!!! They absolutely adore each other. Alec does the same thing he has done since he was 7 weeks old. He barks as loudly as he can in Caleb's face, and Caleb ignores him until Alec goes over and pulls his tail. Then they run. We had some problems initially because Alec would pull on his leash, zigging and zagging under his brother when we'd walk together. I used to take Caleb for a special walk, swim, or ball playing session, where we could have special time and be alone together, but now that Alec and Caleb are bonded, they want the other to come wherever we go. On the rare occasion that the boys have been separated, Caleb runs right to Alec's crate to get him out with his tail wagging, and Alec kisses Caleb's face and whines at him until Caleb growls. Then the process begins again. I could not be happier with how my little family is progressing. These two dogs are the sweetest, most wonderful, and most handsome creatures on earth. Caleb has already been awarded his Canine Good Citizen, and Alec will be working towards his as soon as he turns 1 year old. Both boys will then become certified therapy dogs. They are so incredible, and will soon be able to share their beauty and sweetness with others besides me. I cannot find the words to truly convey how much having them with me has enriched my life.
(Caleb is from Blossom x Higgins & Alec is from Lady x Striker)
Jane Patterson & Sally Fitch- Bath, Maine

 

I just wanted to drop you a line to let you know what a wonderful experience it has been getting to know you and your Goldens. It was so clear to me from my first visit 2 1/2 years ago when we got Maive just what a special set up you have. Your genuine love for your dogs and knowledge of all that goes into breeding and showing is so impressive.

Maive has the best temperament and is completely adored (Katie Scarlett x Can CH Dr. Watson), so much so we came back for a playmate for her, and Gus, well he's just to die for (Molly x Gabe's 2 pup litter). He is almost 6 months and he is romping through advanced puppy training - so bright and eager it's astounding. Both are just beautiful specimens in looks and demeanor - we couldn't have wished for more perfect dogs and we're thrilled.

Thank you for all your patience and expertise. Undoubtedly we'll be back for more as the years go by. All the very best to you and your hounds.

 
David & Diana Tourtillott - Scituate, Massachusetts

Last year we experienced the loss of our first Golden Retriever who we thought would be with us until he was old and gray. However, that wasn’t the case. As we mourned the loss we knew we had to get another Golden right away. Our visit to Goldiva Goldens brought us “big” smiles and happiness.

Duggan came home with us a few weeks later and has been our biggest joy. He is the most gentle, loving and happy dog. He completes our life. Duggan lives with us by the harbor where he enjoys swimming after the ducks, playing with his friends on the beach, going for rides in the truck, visiting friends and “lots” of walks. We “all” couldn’t be happier. Thank you Mary for breeding such a wonderful dog!

(Lady/Boomer litter)




Dr. Jude & Kate Malican, East Greenwich, Rhode Island

Two years ago we were looking for a new dog for our family. That's when we discovered Goldiva Goldens. We found our new puppy, Starbuck (light golden), who turned out to be the best dog we have ever had. At least until ten months ago when we got our next puppy from Goldiva Goldens, Grady (med. golden).

Grady, is equally as wonderful as Starbuck and together they are fantastic. We have two daughters and both dogs are excellent with them. Our youngest daughter can be very challenging for the two of them, but they both love her (so much so that they both actually sleep cheek to cheek with her every night). Both Grady and Starbuck have been wonderful additions to our family.

When we are ready for our next "new addition" we will be sure to be back again!

(Starbuck– Dexter x Pheasant Ridge Kali litter & Grady – Lady x Boomer litter)

Left: Grady’s puppy picture.

Dr. William & Mary Hebert, Cape Elizabeth, Maine

Bayley, who turned two years old on Christmas Eve, is the epitome of "Man's Best Friend" (and woman's, and child's, and other dog's!) He wants to be where the people are. He may, in fact, not yet know that he is a dog rather than a person! We call him our toddler because there are times where he acts like one. His biggest frustration (and ours) is that he can't talk... He tries to... He uses his head, paws and other body parts to indicate there is something he wants or some place he wants to go. We think he is a genius. (Our neighbors don't but who cares?)

Bayley loves running on the beach, swimming in the ocean, riding in the car, lying on the sofa, sleeping on our bed as well as his bed, and eating. And, not just food. Over the past few years, he has eaten socks, sweaters, boots and clogs, rocks and plants, but we have forgiven him. When he looks at us with that wonderful "Golden only" look, we melt. When I brought him home on Valentine's Day in 2002, a third dog was the last thing we needed. None of us can imagine life without him. Our happy dog brings us happiness every single day!

(Scarlet x Higgins litter)
Dr. Mark & Chris Bouchard, Cumberland, Maine

When Genevieve joined our family in September 2002, neither my husband nor I had ever owned a dog. We had, however, watched our friends across the street raise one of Mary’s puppies and she had captured our hearts. We felt certain that a Golden Retriever would be the gentle family dog we desired.

Our young daughters enjoy Genny’s sweet personality, her desire to play ball, and her willingness to obey. She helps me garden and loves spending summers in the lake with our girls. As a puppy, she used her nose to instigate a game of “roll the tennis ball.” She still lies down to enjoy a roll with us when she doesn’t want to exert herself! Every day is laundry day at our house. Genny usually follows me around with a sock in her mouth. I also enjoy her company when I play the piano because she lies on my feet. When she’s had enough music, she muzzles my hands off the keyboard. I often find her in the front yard gazing across the street in hopes that “Aunt Molly” will come out and play. The two dogs love to romp!

Genny also has an intuitive quality and she helped me through a difficult time this fall. My father battled terminal illness so she became part of the family’s care team. Although just a year old and not yet a certified therapy dog, she accompanied me on several visits to a nursing home and dementia unit. She quickly put my mind at ease when she greeted Dad like an old friend. Her visits brought smiles and healing to many people. We can’t imagine life without her company. Genevieve is truly Magic! (Higgins x Mum’s Marvelous Molly)

Brian, Linda, Ben & Megan, Cumberland, Maine

We have two Goldens, Daisy & Charlotte that my preschool purchased from Goldiva Goldens. They have completely different personalities similar to our son & daughter. Ben is reserved and Daisy is too. Megan is outgoing and so is Charlotte. Daisy wades out to her belly but Charlotte swims. Daisy retrieves anything thrown (but not in the water), Charlotte won’t retrieve anything but a hockey puck. They’re mitten stealers and gentle with the kids. They are so much a part of our family. They’re the best, spoiled rotten, go everywhere with us and have unconditional love. They’re just Awesome!!

(Daisy - Amber x Dexter litter & Charlotte – Scarlett x Higgins litter)

Wendy Baird, Old Orchard Beach, Maine

Moses is great!! We just love him!! He's got more personality than our last two goldens put together and intelligent too!! He's well traveled and so good in the car!! He makes the 10 hour trek to our home in Canada at least once a month without any problems.

Moses loves the water and the cottage in Canada. He is my constant companion and loves our long walks on the beach in Maine. When greeted by others he immediately lies down and waits to be petted, which is great for the little ones which are attacted to him like a magnet. He swims in the ocean whether it's winter or summer. He adapts well to every activity we do from seadooing to ice skating. We just love him!


(Amber x Boomer litter)

Julie Butler & Higgins, Newport, Rhode Island

Higgins is one of the most carefree, animated, and happy-go-lucky dogs that I have ever known. He has a pretty good life for a dog…from September to June he lives on a 200-acre boarding school campus in Newport, RI surrounded by approximately 30 dogs, 60 families, and 340 students. His personality is sweet and at times he can be a bit of a show-off (recently seen at a basketball game wiggling along the sidelines with a Poland Sprin water bottle in his mouth as if to say “Have you met me yet?…Aren't I cute?”). His summer months are spent at “Golden Retreat”, a summer cottage on Watchic Lake in Standish, Maine. He swims, jumps off the dock, and was great, even at a young age, in the canoe. He, like most of his relatives, LOVES to play ball and also has an amazing ability to focus. His favorite thing to do is drop his lacrosse ball and then find a spot to hide behind (tree, field hockey goal…). Once he grew into his legs and tail he became quite a fast runner. Higgins completed two, six-week obedience classes. He loves, and is loved by children and adults, is great with other dogs and, when he smiles, his eyes really sparkle. (Scarlet x Keeper litter)

Nikki, Andrew & Drewkki, Wilmington, Massachusetts

Here is an update on our “girl”. First of all, Hazel has been renamed Drewkki.(anDREW and niKKI) makes Drewkki.We started her right out in Puppy Kindergarten the week she came home.She then went on to Puppy Agility and is now is Good Manners Class.Her classes are run by New England Veterinary Behavior Associates in Lexington MA aka Partners for Life Dog Training.The vet behavior practice is owned by the famous Dr.ppy and with that in mind she can be a handful.But we are responsible owners and go out of our way to understand her behavior and help her to succeed in maintaining acceptable behavior.We have used only positive reinforcement for our training approach.She has truly been a blessing beyond measure in our lives and we could not love her any more or we'd burst! With all this said, we would of course be happy to give your name to several people who admired Drewkki and want to know where we got her.We have taken pictures of her the wayparents do of their first born.

We even went out and purchased a camcorder specifically to record those special Kodak movie moments of Drewkki A few extra tidbits:she was spayed in December at 7 months.She currently weighs 51.7 lbs.The vets I work with say she is a petite Golden, small framed.She is in perfect health in everyway! (Lovey x Morrgan litter)



 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 

 
Susan & Peter Francesco, Holderness, New Hampshire

 

Ruthie is AWESOME! Our ride home was "eventful" in that she lost her breakfast!But once that was "up" and a sip of water settled she was great the rest of the ride. From there it has been great! Some highlights:

1.She has a Kennel which she loves...she can't get in it fast enough...so cute running around the corner skidding on the floor to get in - especially for meals.

2. KC our 11 year old is wonderful with Ruthie.Ruthie is KC's shadow.They go everywhere together.We hike together, take walks, "heal" together, eat together, go boating, swimming....Ruthie loves to "hang" off KC's ears and now that she is starting to loose her baby teeth...KC's ears are the perfect teething toy.KC of course occasionally tells Ruthie to cut it out…but that is not often.

3.Ruthie LOVES to ride in our 1948 wooden Chris Craft.Whenever we head to the lake she is first on the dock just waiting to get into the boat.Once everyone is in and "settled" Ruthie rides on the hatch just behind the front seat.She has been there since day one and loves it. She sits up and lets the wind blow her ears back or while we are just "bubbling" along, she sleeps! I took a great picture of her on the hatch and submitted in a photo contest… Ruthie will be the 2004 August Calendar Girl for the Meredith Village Savings Bank calendar.

4.Ruthie’s house broken, sits, downs, comes, heels, stays, and does not jump on cars or people!I took her yesterday, with an 85 year old friend and we must have gone to 50 yard sales.Ruthie rides on the floor in the front passenger seat…curled around my elderly (Golden Retriever lover) friend's feet.She was wonderful all day, in and out of the car, meeting people, other dogs, sniffing lots of stuff but very well behaved!

5. Ruthie (We tell folks she will be "Lady Ruth) when she grows up...is wonderful We love her! Pete is home with her all day and they have a great relationship.She goes to the local store with him, she is well known at the bank…after all she is the calendar girl, and the local lumber store has a special box of puppy treats for her (only one is the rule).She rides in the old family pickup (big, old black clunky truck) to the dump with KC and Pete… what a trio they make!

6.I took Friday off from work and hiked a small local popular hill with her. We were out maybe 2 hours. She shares my water bottle (she has a doggie bowl too) and she is a great companion.Then a friend came and we hiked another mountain about a 45 minute hike up. Ruthie was great - she stays with us, she checks out every brook (the muddier the better). She has to lay down in every one and she "snorts bubbles", then she gets excited about the bubbles and "digs" the stream for more bubbles…it is comical!

7. About a week ago we did have a run in with something...that bit Ruthie and both her eyes puffed up, her muzzle got swollen...she looked awful. We rushed her to the vet and after a shot of Benadryl and some steroids she was fine. Sure gave us a scare but our vet said ants, spiders and some wasps can do that and that 25mg of Benadryl (the little pink pills) can be given to dogs- even at Ruthie's age, 1 pill every 6 hours. She said if you can get the Benadryl into her "before the symptoms" then you can probably avoid the swelling.She cautioned us not to give the Benadryl with Sudafed...that is a bad combination for dogs.Anyway, about three days later she did get into a mess of yellow jackets and got stung again...so we gave her the Benadryl and all was just fine.

Ruthie is a beautiful dark color...she weighs 49 pounds and our vet said she was a "perfect" size for her age. Her coat is soft and glossy.She is wonderful in all aspects! (Amber x Boomer litter)