I started out in 1984 with my first Pharaoh Hound, where is how I met my husband and dog partner, Phil, who was also involved in Pharaoh Hounds. We joined forces in the late 1990's, and successfully guided many Pharaohs to multiple titles in the show ring, lure coursing field and racing venues. With many in top ranked positions.

In 1996, I had the opportunity to meet a Cirneco dell'Etna for the first time, through an old friend. It was love at first sight. With a referral from this friend, I was introduced to Janis Butler, and it wasn't long until we brought home our first girl, Flora.

We delved into the world of rare breed shows, and Flora earned titles through multiple organizations. She also gained quite a following of admirers while accompanying us to activities with the Pharaoh Hounds.

In 2003, a partnership was formed with Janis for our future with the Cirneco, and d'Lea Cirnechi was born. In the same year, we introduced our first two imports, Boxing Helena's Caliente (Cali) and Speugippo (Pippo).

Unfortunately, in 2007, Janis lost her battle with cancer, and I lost a treasured friend and mentor. We picked up and moved to Texas, and vowed to keep d'Lea going the path as planned with Janis.

The Cirneco was accepted to the AKC Miscellaneous class in 2012, and allowed to join the Hound Group on 2015. d'Lea was thrilled to participate, and quickly gained ground and achieved many of the "Firsts" for the breed.

     * First Champion (Ranger)

     * First Grand Champion (Ranger)

     * First Group Placement (Promise)

     * First AKC Field Champion (Baron)

     * First (and only, to date) to win Best of Breed at the AKC National Lure Coursing Championship and      the AKC Conformation National Championship, both in the same year (Kia).

We are anxious to see what the future holds for us at d'Lea as we continue to stay active in the show ring and lure coursing venues.  I'm sure Janis would be proud.

At d'Lea, our dogs all live in the house with us, and are a part of our daily lives, and our puppies are raised right along side of us and the dogs. We feel that these are our pets, first and foremost, and the activities we do are just a perk. It allows us to be with our dogs, doing something we both enjoy, and to be with friends that enjoy them as well.

In 2021, I lost my husband and dog partner, Phil, to COVID-19. The dogs and I have moved back to Florida, and have teamed up with our long time friend and Cirneco owner, Linda Lysher. Together we co-bred one litter, that have been very successful. Once we get settled, we will see what we plan on for future litters.

About Us

Purebred Preservation Breeder

Jerri Gates