IRISH RED SETTERS have been part of our family for years. They are beautiful creatures. We love their free-spirited independence and enthusiasm, their humour and joyfulness. First there was faithful Sam who was always at our side and lived until he was 15 , then litter-mates Max and Harley who adored each other and went everywhere together. Harley lived happily until 10 when he succumbed to a tumour, as did his sibling Max 18 months later. All lived in Setter Paradise with acres of fields to play in and magical woodlands to explore in deepest rural Cornwall. They were always such a joy to behold. We moved to Cornwall's coast in June 2008, where Max enjoyed his last few months strolling the coastal paths and beaches. Thomas was born on 11th August 2008 and joined us 8 weeks later on 6th October. This was within days of Max's sad passing, but Irish Setter puppies are a rarity in these parts, and we felt we had to seize the opportunity. We cannot imagine a life without at least one Red Setter companion. They are a constant reminder that life should be enjoyed to the full!

UPDATE: Out of the blue, when Thomas was 8 months old, we were asked to adopt one of his litter-mates, Rudhi, as his owner was no-longer able to care for him. Thomas loves canine company even more than we do so we were delighted to welcome his handsome (but rather slight) brother to our family. Rudhi was 8 months old when he joined us on 8th April 2009, and we have created a seperate Rudhi gallery to follow his development and the life he enjoys.

Your comments and votes are much appreciated