What Others Are Saying

Hello Dr. Joe, Today our beautiful daughter Charlie turned 8 years young. She is doing wonderful and aging with such sweetness. Charlie is everyone’s best friend and a superior pet true to the nature of Bainbridge and her extended family. Cindy and I can still remember the day she arrived in June of 2000 from Kentucky with her velvet soft long ears and curious belly rolls on our thick lawn. We both took turns taking vacation from work to make sure she was comfortable and safe in her new home. In 2002 when we got married Charlie was our ring bearer and she was so proud to walk down the isle with the rings. The love she gives us is so enormous and kind we believe she is a gift from God. Our whole family thanks you and all the Bainbridge Labradors for making our house a home with the best girl in our world. With warm regards, Stan and Cindy and Charlie (IL)

Hi Joe, As much as we look forward to our new puppy and your help in picking just the right one for us, we are even more appreciative of the kindness you have shown us following Whidbey’s death in January.  He was born in 1995.  Sugarfoot was his father and the beloved Bainbridge was his mother.  We named him Whidbey to carry-on your tradition of naming your dogs after places in the Pacific Northwest.  Although we live in Los Angeles, we spent a month every summer on Whidbey Island, Washington while our children were growing up.  We thought it only fitting to name him after the next island over from Bainbridge Island, his mother’s namesake.  Not to mention a place where you practiced veterinary medicine (a year or two ago…).  The first summer following Whidbey’s arrival in our home, he flew back to Lexington to spend time with you, Bainbridge, and his sisters while we visited Whidbey Island for our annual vacation.  At the time, you told us that Whidbey was the only dog to come ‘home’ for a visit.  He was the kindest, sweetest dog we have ever owned.  Or, more accurately, he owned us.  Until he fell ill last year, he was the healthiest and happiest dog we have ever seen.  His only medical problem arose from wagging his tail so hard when we came home once, that he split the end of it!  When his time came to an end, we were all there with him.  As we cried, he picked-up his head one last time and looked at each of us as if to assure that everything was ok, then closed his eyes and was gone.  We still cry when we think of it.  We loved him. After much family debate, we have decided to name our new boy Cooper, after Coupeville, a town around the bay from Oak Harbor, your former home on Whidbey Island.  We can’t wait until Cooper comes home to us next month. Many thanks for the friendship and kindness you have shown us over the years, Mark and Patty - California

It is very hard to put into words how much Mercury meant to us. From the moment we picked her up from the airport she became the center of our lives. Mercury was the sweetest, gentlest and most wonderful dog. We always said that she carried all the special spirits of our past pets, all rolled up into one incredible dog. The memories she leaves us with… of learning to swim, carrying around her toy hedgehog, morning kisses when we woke up, helping me make lunch every morning, to the gentle sound of her breathing while she slept, or her face in the window as she watched us leave for work, will never really replace the feel, sound and smell of her. But they will have to do…for last Saturday Mercury was taken from us. Our oldest son put it best when our German Shepard, Man-Dee, died many years ago. He told me he knew Man-Dee was asleep in God’s lap. I know that Mercury is there as well. Mercury can never be replaced in our hearts, but has simply joined the other pets from our past…and we look forward to making room in our hearts for a new puppy… never to replace, simply to join. Good-bye, Mercury, we miss you very much! Love, mommy, daddy, Brandon and Danny…3/2008

Dear Dr. Demichael, I just wanted to drop you a note to let you know how much Winston means to our family. He is absolutely the most precious dog we could possibly have! He has grown into quite an adolescent as a 9-month-old puppy, and his cute personality makes us laugh every day. He's so friendly and loving, and we feel so lucky to have him. In January, Winston and I are starting Domesti-PUPS training with the Humane Society. Hopefully by June he'll be a certified therapy dog! I plan to have him at my school as our Edu-PUP, and Jeremy and I plan to continue the visits with the elderly at nursing homes that will be part of his training. I've attached a picture of us with Winston on our wedding day so you can see how much he's grown. Thank you for giving us the gift of Winston! Beth in NE

We purchased Chaos from you December 2002. I was just visiting your site and thought you may want to see a picture of Chaos. I have to say, Chaos is the best dog I have ever owned. We know people you are not dog fans and they fall in love with this guy. He is just a sweet boy who gets more love from our 4 & 5 year old girls than he can handle. He has been a pure pleasure for our family and he is the only dog allowed in our friends beautiful cabin. He spends most of his summers swimming in our pool and and running with my wife. Thanks for such a great boy. Kurt in Minnesota

Joe, It was a year ago right around this time that we loaded up the car to drive from Connecticut to Lexington to pick out our new dog, Owen. The trip was long but exciting and meeting you and seeing your offspring's was something I will never forget. How do you pick out a puppy from the group we had to select from, they were all gorgeous. We did the best we could and over the next few months, you are never sure if the decision was correct. A year later, we have a perfect dog and we love him way too much. He has grown into a beautiful young boy and has a personality like no other dog I have ever met. The affection can get out of hand at times. His daily walks have to be started shortly after he has his breakfast or he will let you know how disappointed he is. He meets the girls at the bus everyday, when he hears the bus coming up the road he gets so excited. He loves the pool but needs to be assisted around because he thinks he is still a little puppy, not an 80 pound dog. He reminds me so much of my last dog that sometimes it is spooky and I never thought I would hit the jackpot twice. I cannot believe we found you and thank you for giving Owen to us. Mike in CT

“Beau”, Bainbridge’s Beausoleil,
July 4, 1995 – January 12, 2007
Our beautiful boy Beau left us yesterday gently and sweetly.  As you may know Beau was diagnosed with  cancer just before Peter's 60th birthday. Talk about mixed blessings!  Beau had a great time in his last days. He has always thoroughly enjoyed Christmas and ripping his presents open.  He also sang Happy Birthday to Bella last week (his favourite song).  Just this Wednesday Beau enjoyed walks in the park with both Peter and Beau's good friend Elizabeth from Paws in High Park.  Both of them remarked on how much fun he had on the walks and he didn't seem to know or want to let on he was sick.  He even went so far as to "hump" the lovely Bella in our hallway.  Sadly, on Thursday things took a very sudden turn and he let Patti know it was his time to go.  He died in his own home yesterday, with Bella nearby and Patti and Dahla giving him lots of hugs and kisses from everyone.  We shall miss him madly probably as long as we live, but are so so grateful for the joy and lessons he brought us daily.  He was just an incredibly sweet (and did we mention handsome?) guy and we take solace in how great a life he had. Patti, Peter and Bella, Canada

Hailey was my heart. She was loving, sweet, smart, funny, gentle and a tender hearted girl. She was my best friend (next to my hubby). She would spoon me at night and then go down to the bottom of the bed to sleep. Your beautiful labs are not run of the mill, everyone she every met, loved her. I really never considered her a dog, but a little person. She new my every feeling. She just passed away, 13 years of a great life. I will always miss her, but will see her again at Rainbow Bridge. I am heart broken, but looking forward to a new incredible pup. Your labs are the best there are, there is just something special about them. Thank you for your special dogs. Michelle in Granada Hills, CA

I have always loved labs (and horses) but Spirit is the most beautiful dog I have even seen and what a gift she is for me.  Her name fits her and she is a playful, loving, mellow, gentle, tender girl, full of curiosity and intelligence.  I have never been around a lab like her and her personality is both delightful and funny although she hasn't a clue how hilarious she can be.  Dr. Joe thank you for breeding these dogs and keeping Bainbridge alive for all of us to savor and relish.

Joe, I can't read that story of Bridge so beautifully written and from your heart and not cry as I know how much I love animals who have touched my life in depth.  They have much to teach us. All the best and thank you for all your help. I will never hesitate to call. Lucy in CA

6 years ago you informed me our new puppy would be arriving into Phoenix on Delta Airlines. I told my son we were driving to the airport to pick up his new best friend, I did not mention it was a puppy. When we got there and saw this beautiful white pup it was me who became overwhelmed with happiness and I knew this little guy would change our family forever. We named him Sonny and he very quickly became everyone's best friend. We have four kids and he takes turns putting each one to bed. He never says no to them and we all love him unconditionally. We can't thank you enough!! - Shelley in Phoenix

Just wanted to tell you about DERBY. He is friendly, lovable, calm and just beautiful. He follows me all over the house like my shadow. He is so sweet and so good and when I put him in his crate at night I give him a treat and he sleeps quietly until the morning. My son Michael insisted on me getting a dog but I hesitated since the great loss of my husband. After much thought I agreed with Michael and now I'm so happy I did! DERBY brings me great comfort, makes me laugh and it's such a nice feeling coming home from work to a happy face that greets you instead of an empty house. He is such a joy to have with me and I love him dearly. Evelyn, NY

"Dear Dr. Demichael, My uncle and I wanted to send you a picture of our beautiful boys. (Romeo) on my right and (Dash) on my left. Once again, we can't thank-you enough! We get so much joy out of these guys". Kane and Gigi in Florida

"Here are a couple photos of Riley and her sister Cane. they love hiking and rolling around in the snow. they are beautiful companions and friends. They love riding in the truck with me and never fail to get stares and comments from others who see these 2 white dogs watching the road pass by. Cane has just recently come to live with us and has had no trouble integrating into the family. They are great together and while it is still difficult to say goodbye to those dark eyes in the morning, knowing they have each other makes it a little better. Thank you again and keep spreading this special joy to the world! Don, CT"

"I cannot tell you how many times I get stopped and asked where I got such a beautiful dog. Of course, I tell them all about Kentucky and what a wonderful time I had with all those beautiful puppies. I am pretty sure I picked the best of the lot!!! He is 3 years old now and has turned into my best friend. He has the most wonderful disposition and is just so smart and loving. It doesn't matter what kind of a day I've had, when I walk in the door to Tucker, he is all that matters. We would be honored to be included in the new website. I have already made several greeting card purchases. They are wonderful". Lori from New York

"This is a great example of how much George means to us and how much of a part of the family he is. George is the best. He has the most gentle and fun loving personality. We have two boys under the age of 5 and George is their best friend. They climb all over him, pass their peas to him when we are not looking and like to dress George up as the picture shows. We are so grateful to have George as a part of our lives. We could not imagine life without him. George also thinks he is a lap dog, even though he is close to 90 pounds, he loves to sit in my lap. We usually start our day having our youngest son Conner on our laps with his milk, when Conner gets off our lap George thinks it is his turn. Thank you so much for George". Don from San Francisco, CA

"Hey Dr. Joe, Three years ago, I flew to Lexington, KY from Orlando, FL and met you at the airport. You handed me a twelve pound puppy that looked a bit like a polar bear cub ... little did I know the impact the fuzzy little guy would have on my life. Since that day, Cabo and I have been inseparable. Cabo and I live in Phoenix, AZ now and he's all grown up at just over one hundred pounds. Whether it's a swim in the pool, chasing a ball, chewing a bone, playing with other dogs, or taking a well deserved nap ... Cabo knows how to live life. We often say that Cabo doesn't have a bad bone in his body and that he has a heart of gold. Nothing could be more true - he brings a smile to people's faces and makes everyone laugh. He's the best companion a person could ask for and I cherish all the time I spend with him. He's a constant reminder that there is goodness in the world and I've learned a lot from him. Thanks a million for my buddy and keep up the great work". Take care, Sean & Cabo (Bainbridge's Cabo Wabo) Phoenix, AZ

"As you can see ---- we have an absolutely gorgeous White Lab named Molly! We bought her from you three years ago this coming March. That has been the best thing we've ever done, we dearly love her and we have 3 grown children with spouses and 6 grandchildren who range in age from 18 months to 17 years old who also fell in love with Molly from the first day they saw her. Molly is a very sweet, happy,loving, healthy girl!! We have a home in Marblehead, MA and a home in Wolfeboro N.H. and she has the run of the property in New Hampshire. We had a company come to the Wolfeboro property almost as soon as we received Molly and they installed an electric fence, which is buried under the ground on the entire circumference of our property. She is a VERY smart dog --- it took her only one mistake when she was too close to the underground wire and from then on she doesn't need her collar, however, when she is in the yard by herself, we keep a very close eye on her. Bill is going you phone you someday soon regarding our purchase of another Bainbridge Lab so that Molly with have a companion". - Bill and Merri from Marblehead, Ma

"We purchased Frisco from you 2 years ago and he is absolutely wonderful.  He is astonishingly intelligent, faithful and loving.  Over the 2 years that we have had Frisco, he has inspired 4 friends to acquire “white labs” from other sources and all have been very disappointed to discover that not all labs are equal.  Your recent Christmas card inspired me to inquire if you are still breeding these amazing animals for adoption.  Frisco is great but I find that he is happiest when he has a canine companion and it saddens us to see him upset when we are forced to leave him at home alone.  If there are puppies available or becoming available let me know the timing and I will discuss it with my wife.  I am including a recent photo for your collection.  Happy Holidays and a healthy New year to you and yours. Thanks for providing us with such an amazing friend". - from Orlando FL

"Hello Joseph, It has been several years since we have been in contact. I was browsing your revised (and very attractive) website, saw the photo of B & B still included and thought you would be happy to know that we are all doing well. We still live in Toronto and while the dogs are a bit arthritic, they remain very healthy. I have a fold-up ramp to help them get in and out of the van. They are quite active, but are slowing down quite a bit. Bella will be 10 years old next week. We find it hard to believe that so many years have passed since you sent us those beautiful pups, via Delta air cargo. They are incredible friends and absolutely charming. Even non dog lovers are impressed with these guys. I have attached a shot taken two summers ago. Please feel free to use it if you like it. Best wishes for a wonderful 2006". - Peter and Patti from Toronto, ON

"Joe, It has been exactly one year this week that Tono arrived at our home. You cannot possibly imagine how much joy and happiness he has brought to our family. We love him more than any other dog we have ever had. We cannot believe his temperment. He is so gentle with not only young children, but also with the very elderly. Our grandchildren love him as do the folks at the Assisted Living facility where my Mother resides. What is so hard to believe is how easy he was to train. Believe it or not, he has never chewed on a shoe or created any damage to our furniture or other precious belongings. When we go for a walk, we do not have to worry about a leash as he stays close to us and never wanders. He plays well with other dogs and everyone who comes in contact with him marvels at how well behaved he is and his gentle disposition. Sorry to boast so much, but we felt on this first anniversary that you would be interested in just how much Tono has meant to us". John & Takeyo from Virginia Beach, VA

"Joe I don't know if I sent you these of Lucy I saw your new website it looks great. I was hoping you would put Lucy on it anyway she is great I couldn't have gotten a better dog. Thanks". Brian from New York.