Hi folks,
I've been a "closeted" mouse fancier for many, many years ... first learning of them from a library book in the early 70s. My animal "escapades" have largely consisted of dog showing and breeding (Afghan Hounds briefly and then Bassets for about 25 years). I am an AKC judge, but no longer breed dogs. I also have a small herd of Nubian Dairy Goats. I briefly had fancy mice in the early 90s. There was a small club in Harrisburg and I actually was able to purchase a few agoutis from a couple who had brought the line back from England. As a breeder and lover of genetics, you cannot beat the mice. First of all, they are beautiful to look at, lovely to own and hold (so friendly and inquisitive) and as far as genetics, it seems the sky is the limit and the generations follow along so quickly! The problem here: No shows, no local mouse folk who are serious about breeding to quality mice (no disrespect to loving pet owners, I just love good genetic discussions). I have often visited the FMC web page, "drooling" all the beautiful colors, and those ears.
Well, I've "sobbed on" long enough. I will continue to enjoy lurking. I have been to England once (in 2002) and had a grand time. My "dream" is to retire there and raise and show fancy mice ... a bit hard with immigration, family here, etc. If I plan another trip, it will have to include a mouse show. Best to you all over the holidays and keep up the wonderful work with the mice.
Joe Smith (yes, my real name)
I've been a "closeted" mouse fancier for many, many years ... first learning of them from a library book in the early 70s. My animal "escapades" have largely consisted of dog showing and breeding (Afghan Hounds briefly and then Bassets for about 25 years). I am an AKC judge, but no longer breed dogs. I also have a small herd of Nubian Dairy Goats. I briefly had fancy mice in the early 90s. There was a small club in Harrisburg and I actually was able to purchase a few agoutis from a couple who had brought the line back from England. As a breeder and lover of genetics, you cannot beat the mice. First of all, they are beautiful to look at, lovely to own and hold (so friendly and inquisitive) and as far as genetics, it seems the sky is the limit and the generations follow along so quickly! The problem here: No shows, no local mouse folk who are serious about breeding to quality mice (no disrespect to loving pet owners, I just love good genetic discussions). I have often visited the FMC web page, "drooling" all the beautiful colors, and those ears.
Well, I've "sobbed on" long enough. I will continue to enjoy lurking. I have been to England once (in 2002) and had a grand time. My "dream" is to retire there and raise and show fancy mice ... a bit hard with immigration, family here, etc. If I plan another trip, it will have to include a mouse show. Best to you all over the holidays and keep up the wonderful work with the mice.
Joe Smith (yes, my real name)
If you ever do manage to get over again, the Bradford championship at the end of January is well worth a visit, there are many species of small animal exhibited there and it is held in the lovely town of Harrogate which is well worth a visit anyway 
