Island Time Goldens English Creams on Vancouver Island
CKC registered. DNA verified. OFA certified.
Ethically bred. Holistically nurtured. Raised with science and soul.
OUR STORY
Dogs have been part of my life for as long as I can remember.
Growing up in Saskatchewan, our home was always filled with paws — puppies, rescues and loyal companions who quietly shaped my childhood. From my earliest years, dogs were teachers of comfort, patience and unconditional love. They were family long before I understood the word.
Golden Retrievers captured my heart early and never let go.
There is something unmistakable about them — the soulful eyes, gentle intelligence and wholehearted devotion. Goldens love with their entire being. They swim with joy, fetch with pride, greet strangers like old friends and will proudly deliver your slippers each morning simply because it makes you smile.
I have watched people soften in their presence — children, seniors, stressed students, even strangers we pass on our walks. Goldens have a way of dissolving walls with a single wag of a tail.
Their presence brings calm. Their presence heals.
And with that depth of love comes loss.
Anyone who has loved a Golden knows that when they leave, they take a piece of your heart with them. We have felt that ache ourselves. And in that grief came clarity: the love they give is
life-changing — and it deserves to be honoured, protected
and carried forward.
Island Time Goldens was born from that place of gratitude.
Our girls live with us as cherished companions, woven into the rhythm of daily life. They move with us through quiet mornings and long days, rest in sunlit beams, splash in rivers and oceans and curl at our feet each evening.
They are not kennel dogs — they are family.
Every puppy begins life wrapped in calm and affection, guided by gentle routines and intentional care. They are held, spoken to and introduced to the world with patience and respect, growing into secure, joyful souls ready to meet their forever families.
To us, breeding Golden Retrievers is not a business.
It is a calling.
A privilege.
And a way of honouring the dogs who shaped
our lives and our hearts.
— Shelley Clerx
Island Time Goldens
OUR VISION
Our vision at Island Time Goldens is to raise English Cream Golden Retrievers who reflect the very best of the breed — sound in health and structure, steady in temperament, and emotionally
grounded in family life.
True beauty, to us, lies in balance.
Confidence without dominance.
Gentleness with stability.
Intelligence expressed through curiosity, connection, and calm presence.
We believe every Golden deserves a loving home, and every family deserves a dog whose temperament, health, and spirit are as gentle and resilient as the Island they are raised on.
Our puppies are family-raised — never kennel-kept and never placed into guardian arrangements. They grow up between our peaceful country property and our cherished Columbia Beach waterfront retreat, experiencing natural light, fresh air, ocean breezes, and the steady rhythm of Island living. These early environments shape nervous systems, emotional regulation, and confidence long before training ever begins.
Our girls live with us full-time as beloved companions. Their emotional steadiness, physical wellbeing, and secure attachment form the foundation for puppies who enter the world feeling safe, curious, and ready to bond.
Our mission is not simply to raise beautiful dogs — it is to raise dogs who thrive in real family life. Each Golden leaves us with a strong, thoughtful foundation shaped by health, heart,
and sincere intention.
OUR HALO — THE HEART OF ISLAND TIME GOLDENS
Every Golden at Island Time Goldens carries their own quiet brilliance — gentle, joyful, and deeply intuitive in the way they connect with people.
Through years of hands-on experience living alongside Golden Retrievers across all life stages, we have developed a deep understanding of canine temperament, emotional regulation, and wellness. This lived knowledge shapes how our dogs are raised, supported, and understood — not just as breeding animals,
but as whole beings.
Our puppies reflect the very best of the
English Cream Golden Retriever:
calm without passivity, affectionate without demand,
and steady in both body and spirit.
The Halo of Our Program
At the centre of Island Time Goldens are our girls —
the quiet strength and living heart of our program.
Each female is thoughtfully chosen for her health, temperament, structure, and lineage, representing generations of careful, ethical breeding rooted in balance and soundness. Just as importantly, they are chosen for who they are — their softness, their confidence, their ability to move through life with calm presence.
These dogs are not defined by breeding alone.
They are cherished companions.
Our girls live with us, fully integrated into daily life, nurtured through holistic care, balanced nutrition, meaningful connection, and appropriate conventional veterinary support when needed. Their emotional steadiness, physical wellbeing, and secure attachment create the conditions for puppies who arrive in the world feeling safe, grounded, and ready to bond.
We honour each dog’s individuality — the intelligence in her gaze, the gentleness in her interactions, and the quiet confidence that defines the English Cream Golden Retriever.
We invite you to meet our girls, explore their pedigrees, and feel the continuity that flows through every puppy they
bring into the world.
They are the foundation.
They are the constant.
They are the heart of Island Time Goldens.
OUR PHILOSOPHY
At Island Time Goldens, our philosophy is grounded in respect — for the Golden Retriever, for the wellbeing of our dogs, and for the families who place their trust in us. We believe breeding is a responsibility, not a right, and that every choice should be guided by care, integrity, and long-term impact.
Our approach to health and wellness is balanced and evidence-informed. We integrate conventional veterinary care with supportive holistic practices, ensuring each dog receives thoughtful, whole-body support throughout every stage of life. Nutrition is carefully selected to support growth, immune resilience, and longevity, while emotional regulation is fostered through calm routines, gentle structure, and meaningful daily connection.
We believe sound temperament begins with emotional safety. Our dogs are raised in an environment that supports steadiness, confidence, and secure attachment — not overstimulation or pressure. This foundation allows our puppies to transition into family life with greater ease, resilience, and trust.
Education and accountability are essential to ethical breeding. We remain actively engaged in ongoing learning, maintain transparency in our practices, and uphold the standards expected within the Golden Retriever community.
Continual refinement, honest communication, and thoughtful
stewardship guide our program.
Equally important are the relationships we build with families. From first conversation through every stage of your puppy’s life, we offer guidance rooted in experience,
observation, and genuine care.
At the heart of our philosophy is a simple commitment:
to honour the Golden Retriever through responsible choices, balanced care, and wholehearted dedication to
every life entrusted to us.
OUR COMMITMENT TO CARE
Blending traditional veterinary excellence with holistic wellness
Every puppy at Island Time Goldens receives an individual wellness plan that begins before birth and continues through to placement.
We collaborate with respected Canadian veterinary clinics from Courtenay to Victoria, each known for advanced diagnostic care and compassionate service. Our professional team includes veterinarians, cardiologists, ophthalmologists, and certified genetic specialists, ensuring that every breeding dog meets the highest standards for health and screening.
Puppies receive age-appropriate vaccinations and deworming, along with attentive monitoring to support steady growth and overall wellbeing. Each puppy is microchipped and completes a full veterinary health examination before leaving for their new home.
In addition to traditional veterinary medicine, we integrate holistic wellness practices that support natural balance and emotional grounding. Puppies experience gentle BioCharger frequency sessions, Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS), and a calm, enriched environment designed to build confidence and reduce stress.
We also incorporate soothing massage and Reiki-inspired touch techniques, which encourage relaxation, deepen trust, and support healthy circulation and energy flow.
Our integrated approach—combining scientific precision with thoughtful holistic care—ensures that every Island Time Golden begins life with strength, serenity, and soundness.
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EARLY DEVELOPMENT & ENRICHMENT
Early development at Island Time Goldens is guided by intention, observation, and respect for how puppies naturally grow. From birth onward, our puppies are raised within a calm home environment shaped by predictable routines, gentle handling,
and steady human presence.
This early sense of safety supports emotional regulation, confidence, and resilience — qualities that cannot be rushed or recreated later.
Early Neurological & Early Scent Stimulations
(ENS & ESS)
During the neonatal stage, puppies participate in Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) between days 3 and 16 — a brief, time-sensitive window when the nervous system is rapidly developing. Each puppy receives a short series of gentle exercises once per day, performed individually and with calm, minimal stimulation.
ENS at Island Time Goldens includes:
- Gentle tactile stimulation
- Brief positional changes
- Short exposure to a cool surface
Alongside ENS, we incorporate Early Scent Stimulation (ESS) using soft, carefully selected natural scents. These early scent introductions support neurological development and sensory awareness without overwhelming the puppy.
Together, ENS and ESS help foster:
- Improved stress recovery
- Greater adaptability to new environments
- Stronger neurological and immune responses
- A steadier emotional baseline
All early work is done quietly, with calm hands and unhurried pacing, allowing each puppy to process and integrate safely.
Developmental Enrichment
(Puppy Culture–Inspired Experiences)
As puppies mature and their senses open, enrichment expands gradually through a thoughtfully curated rotation of experiences inspired by Puppy Culture principles.
These experiences include:
- Gentle household sounds introduced at low volume
- Varied textures underfoot
- Soft visual contrasts, shapes, and movement
- Novel but non-threatening objects
- Short, positive problem-solving moments
Each experience is introduced slowly and only when puppies are developmentally ready. Curiosity is encouraged, never forced. The goal is confident exploration — not desensitisation through overwhelm.
Meaningful Human Connection
(Handling, Trust & Emotional Regulation)
Human handling is woven naturally into daily life. Puppies experience calm, respectful interaction with people of different ages and energy levels, always guided by observation and consent.
Handling focuses on:
- Comfort with touch
- Emotional flexibility
- Gentle restraint tolerance
- Trust in human presence
This approach reflects the compassionate training philosophy taught by Carrie Lumsden and the K9 Kind Training team, supporting puppies in developing steady social confidence and emotional resilience.
Temperament Observation & Volhard Assessment
(Insight, Not Labels)
As personalities begin to emerge, we observe each puppy closely across a variety of situations — during rest, play, problem-solving, social interaction, and recovery from stimulation.
Around this time, puppies participate in a Volhard-based temperament assessment, used as one of several tools to better understand:
- Sensitivity and confidence
- Social engagement
- Recovery speed
- Curiosity and resilience
These assessments are never used to rank or label puppies. Instead, they provide additional insight that supports thoughtful puppy matching and placement, helping us advocate for long-term success.
A Balanced, Confident Start
This integrated approach — neurological support, sensory enrichment, human connection, and temperament observation — shapes the qualities Golden Retrievers are cherished for: steadiness, intuition, and an open, gentle spirit.
By the time our puppies join their families, they carry with them a calm heart, a curious mind, and a beautifully balanced foundation for life.
WHAT EVERY PUPPY PARENT RECEIVES
SOCIALIZATON
OUR BREEDING PROGRAM
OUR BREEDING PROGRAM
Socialization is one of the most important foundations in raising a well-adjusted Golden Retriever. At Island Time Goldens, we take a gentle, intentional approach that helps each puppy grow into a confident, emotionally secure, and adaptable companion.
A Calm Introduction to Home Life
Puppies begin their social journey within a serene home
Socialization is one of the most important foundations in raising a well-adjusted Golden Retriever. At Island Time Goldens, we take a gentle, intentional approach that helps each puppy grow into a confident, emotionally secure, and adaptable companion.
A Calm Introduction to Home Life
Puppies begin their social journey within a serene home environment shaped by warm human presence, soothing household rhythms, and predictable routines. These early experiences help them develop trust, stability, and comfort within a family setting.
Meaningful Human Interaction
Human connection is central to our socialization program. Puppies meet individuals of different ages and personalities and experience a range of calm, respectful handling styles. Inspired by the emotional-awareness methods taught by Carrie Lumsden and the K9 Kind Training team, every interaction reinforces safety, kindness, and confident engagement with people.
Thoughtfully Curated Experiences
As they mature, puppies are introduced to gentle, age-appropriate sensory and environmental exposures that expand their understanding of the world. These experiences may include:
• varied textures, shapes, and natural surfaces
• soft environmental sounds and gentle movement
• calm transitions into new indoor and outdoor spaces
• early grooming introductions and enriched play
Each exposure is brief, positive, and guided with care, supporting curiosity without overstimulation.
Building the Qualities Goldens Are Loved For
Through this thoughtful blend of environment, interaction, and age-appropriate enrichment, our puppies develop the hallmarks of the English Cream Golden Retriever — steadiness, emotional sensitivity, sociability, and an open, trusting spirit.
By the time they join their forever families, they carry with them a strong foundation of calm confidence, adaptability, and the gentle, intuitive nature that defines a well-socialized Golden Retriever.
OUR BREEDING PROGRAM
OUR BREEDING PROGRAM
OUR BREEDING PROGRAM
Planned with purpose, guided by love, and grounded in respect for the Golden Retriever lineage.
Our breeding program is founded on intention and a deep commitment to honouring the Golden Retriever breed. Every pairing is thoughtfully chosen to ensure that each puppy begins life with health, steadiness, and the gentle temperament that Golde
Planned with purpose, guided by love, and grounded in respect for the Golden Retriever lineage.
Our breeding program is founded on intention and a deep commitment to honouring the Golden Retriever breed. Every pairing is thoughtfully chosen to ensure that each puppy begins life with health, steadiness, and the gentle temperament that Goldens are so cherished for.
Cherished Dams & Carefully Chosen Sires
Our CKC-registered dams come from strong, healthy, well-screened bloodlines. They complete full health clearances for heart, eyes, hips, and elbows, and are loved members of our family.
We select sires who complement them beautifully — in temperament, structure, genetics, and lineage — with the goal of producing puppies who are sound, balanced, and emotionally attuned.
Raised in a Calm, Loving Home Environment
Puppies grow up in the heart of our home, surrounded by warmth, gentle routines, and the soft rhythm of family life. They experience loving touch, soothing voices, natural household sounds, and age-appropriate encouragement that helps them feel safe, understood, and connected.
A Thoughtful Blend of Science & Heart
Guided by the practices in our ITG Handbook, we incorporate:
• Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS)
• Puppy Culture–inspired foundations
• Age-appropriate sensory experiences
These methods support confidence, curiosity, healthy development, and emotional grounding from the very beginning.
A Purposeful Beginning for Every Puppy
Every litter is planned with care and raised with genuine tenderness. We never rush the process. From the first heartbeat to the day they join their forever families, our puppies are nurtured with attention, respect, and intention.
Our hope is always the same: to honour the legacy of the Golden Retriever and to give each puppy the loving, thoughtful beginning they truly deserve.
OUR FACILITIES
OUR BREEDING PROGRAM
PUPPY MATCHING & PLACEMENT
Our puppies are raised across two beautiful Vancouver Island settings, each offering its own unique blend of calm, natural beauty, and gentle sensory experiences. Together, these environments give every Island Time Golden a balanced, enriching beginning filled with warmth, discovery, and a sense of place.
San Pareil Country Home
Our quiet h
Our puppies are raised across two beautiful Vancouver Island settings, each offering its own unique blend of calm, natural beauty, and gentle sensory experiences. Together, these environments give every Island Time Golden a balanced, enriching beginning filled with warmth, discovery, and a sense of place.
San Pareil Country Home
Our quiet half-acre San Pareil property features a welcoming verandah, open grassy spaces, and shaded resting areas that provide a calm, nurturing base for early development. Just down the street lies Rathtrevor Provincial Park, with its soft forest trails and towering trees, while the Englishman River is only a short walk away — a peaceful spot for slow, sensory-rich nature outings.
The property also includes our custom-designed studio “dog home,” a cozy, purpose-built space where puppies experience comfort, routine, and gentle introductions to the world around them.
Columbia Beach Coastal Home
Our Columbia Beach property brings a tranquil coastal element to their upbringing. Here, puppies take in the soft rhythm of ocean waves, the brush of salty breezes, and the changing textures of beachfront pathways that naturally broaden their sensory awareness.
An on-site dog spa offers soothing, positive introductions to grooming, while our outdoor visiting areas create a serene, inviting space for families to meet their future puppy.
A Balanced Beginning for Every Puppy
By experiencing both a warm home environment and the peaceful beauty of the coast, our puppies grow up surrounded by gentle variety and natural harmony. This dual-setting approach supports confident exploration, emotional grounding, and the steady temperament that helps them transition into their new families with ease.
PUPPY MATCHING & PLACEMENT
The Island Time Goldens Community
PUPPY MATCHING & PLACEMENT
At Island Time Goldens, puppy placement is a thoughtful, relational process — not a selection event and never a first-come decision.
From birth through early development, we spend weeks observing each puppy’s temperament, sensitivity, confidence, energy, and social responses. At the same time, we come to know our families — their lifestyle
At Island Time Goldens, puppy placement is a thoughtful, relational process — not a selection event and never a first-come decision.
From birth through early development, we spend weeks observing each puppy’s temperament, sensitivity, confidence, energy, and social responses. At the same time, we come to know our families — their lifestyle, experience, expectations, and capacity for long-term commitment.
Matching is mutual.
Our responsibility is not only to help families find the right puppy, but to ensure each puppy is placed into an environment where they can thrive emotionally, physically, and relationally.
Observation Comes Before Placement
As puppies mature, their personalities begin to emerge in subtle but meaningful ways. Some are naturally bold, others deeply thoughtful. Some thrive in busy households, others in quieter rhythms. There is no hierarchy — only compatibility.
Puppy matching is guided by:
- Ongoing daily observation
- Temperament, confidence, and sensitivity
- Energy levels and recovery after stimulation
- Social responses to people and environments
- Family lifestyle, experience, and expectations
This process is informed by experience, not guesswork — and always prioritises the puppy’s long-term wellbeing.
Visiting Week
(Week 5)
Week 5 is Visiting Week at Island Time Goldens.
This visit is not about choosing a puppy.
It is about connection, observation, and alignment.
By week five, puppies are developmentally ready for gentle, positive interaction beyond their immediate caregivers. Families are invited into a calm, guided environment where puppies can engage naturally — without pressure, competition, or over-handling.
Visiting Week allows:
- Families to observe puppies in a neutral, low-stimulation setting
- Puppies to experience new people safely and at their own pace
- Us to observe how families interact, listen, and respond
- Mutual understanding to deepen on both sides
This time is just as valuable for us as it is for you.
How families move, speak, listen, and respect boundaries offers important insight into whether a placement will be supportive and appropriate for a particular puppy.
Placement Is Guided — Always
In many cases, families may be invited to choose between two carefully identified puppies whose temperaments align well with their home and lifestyle.
In some cases, we may encourage families to trust the puppy’s natural inclination — allowing the puppy to gravitate toward the environment where they feel safest and most curious.
This approach is not symbolic.
It is practical, protective, and rooted in experience.
There is no “best” puppy.
There is only the right match.
OUR RESPONSIBILITY TO PUPPY
The Island Time Goldens Community
The Island Time Goldens Community
At Island Time Goldens, the puppy’s wellbeing is always the guiding priority — before timelines, preferences, or expectations.
We are not an actively marketed breeding program. Island Time Goldens has grown slowly and intentionally through community, shared values, and trusted word-of-mouth connection. Many of our families arrive through r
At Island Time Goldens, the puppy’s wellbeing is always the guiding priority — before timelines, preferences, or expectations.
We are not an actively marketed breeding program. Island Time Goldens has grown slowly and intentionally through community, shared values, and trusted word-of-mouth connection. Many of our families arrive through referrals from past ITG homes, friends, veterinarians, trainers, or individuals who understand our approach and believe in it. This organic growth allows us to remain present, selective, and deeply invested in every life we raise.
Because of this, puppy placement is never rushed, competitive, or transactional.
Each placement is the result of weeks of observation — watching how a puppy responds to novelty, how they recover from stress, how they engage with people, how they settle, and how their temperament continues to unfold. We consider the puppy’s emotional needs alongside a family’s lifestyle, experience, environment, timing, and readiness.
For this reason, we reserve the right to pause, delay, or decline a placement at any point if we believe a match is not in a puppy’s best interest.
This may be due to environmental concerns, timing, energy mismatch, readiness, or alignment — and it is never a judgement of a family’s worth, intentions, or love for dogs.
It is an act of advocacy.
Our responsibility is to protect each puppy’s emotional safety, long-term stability, and quality of life. That responsibility does not end when a puppy goes home — it begins there. Ethical breeding means making decisions that serve the puppy not just for the first weeks of life, but for the many years that follow.
Families who align with our philosophy understand that thoughtful placement is not about control. It is about stewardship, trust, and doing what is right for the life entrusted to us — even when that requires patience, conversation, or difficult decisions.
We are grateful for our community and welcome thoughtful referrals from families who understand our values. If someone has shared our name with you, we love knowing how our community continues to grow through connection rather than promotion.
Island Time Goldens Philosophy
Puppy placement is not a transaction.
It is a commitment.
When observation guides decisions, when patience replaces pressure, and when a puppy’s needs lead every choice, families and dogs begin their lives together with confidence, security, and mutual trust.
Island Time Goldens grows quietly, intentionally, and through relationship — not marketing. We choose depth over scale, care over convenience, and advocacy over expectation.
That foundation matters.
And it is the standard we are committed to protecting.
The Island Time Goldens Community
The Island Time Goldens Community
The Island Time Goldens Community
At Island Time Goldens lifelong support, shared values, and a lasting connection is the cornerstone of everything we do.
Choosing an Island Time Goldens puppy is not a single decision — it is an invitation into a community built on care, trust, and shared responsibility.
At Island Time Goldens, our families are not customers, and our puppi
At Island Time Goldens lifelong support, shared values, and a lasting connection is the cornerstone of everything we do.
Choosing an Island Time Goldens puppy is not a single decision — it is an invitation into a community built on care, trust, and shared responsibility.
At Island Time Goldens, our families are not customers, and our puppies are not transactions. Every placement is the beginning of a long-term relationship — between breeder, family, and dog — grounded in respect for the breed and a commitment to doing right by the lives we are entrusted with.
The ITG community exists to support dogs and the people who love them, long after the first weeks at home.
What Every Island Time Goldens Family Receives
Each family enters the ITG community with a carefully curated educational foundation designed to support confident guardianship and long-term wellbeing:
- A custom Island Time Goldens Puppy Manual
Providing structure, guidance, and clarity through the early weeks and transitions. - A custom Island Time Goldens Health & Wellness Guide
Reflecting our integrated approach — blending holistic support with conventional veterinary care, informed by lived experience. - A curated Island Time Goldens training manual developed with professional guidance by Carrie Lumsden of K9 Kind Training, supporting calm, relationship-based learning.
- Recommended readings and trusted resources
Selected to support emotional development, confidence, and resilience. - An Island Time Goldens Pairing Brochure of Dam and Sire. Outlining health clearances, structure, temperament, and the intentional reasoning behind each pairing. Along with visuals.
- Ongoing guidance and shared knowledge
Rooted in observation, experience, and the collective wisdom of the ITG community.
Education is not an add-on to our program — it is a shared responsibility and a cornerstone of ethical breeding.
Community Means Connection — Not Just Contact
Being part of the Island Time Goldens community means you are never navigating questions, transitions, or uncertainty alone.
We stay connected with our families — celebrating milestones, offering perspective during challenges, and sharing insights that come from raising generations of Goldens. Questions are welcomed. Updates are encouraged. Relationships are valued.
This is a space where:
- Experience is shared, not guarded
- Support is offered without judgment
- The wellbeing of the dog always comes first
A Place They Can Always Come Back To
Every Island Time Goldens dog is always welcome here.
When space and timing allow, we are happy to welcome our puppies back for boarding or daycare, offering a familiar environment, calm routines, and caregivers they already know.
- Boarding services are available (standard boarding rates apply)
- Each ITG dog receives up to one-half day of complimentary daycare
- Availability is intentionally limited to ensure quality care and emotional steadiness
This is not a kennel.
It is a return to a place that feels like home.
Our Role Within the Community
We do not position ourselves as trainers or veterinarians, nor do we replace professional care. Our role is something different — and equally important.
We are the people who knew your Golden from their first breath.
We understand their early experiences, their lineage, and their temperament foundations.
That perspective allows us to offer meaningful, grounded support — especially during transitions, questions of development, or moments of uncertainty.
Island Time Goldens Philosophy
A strong community protects dogs for life.
When families feel supported, they make calmer decisions.
When dogs feel secure, they thrive.
When responsibility is shared, wellbeing follows.
The Island Time Goldens community is built on presence, integrity, and care — not just in the early weeks, but for the lifetime of every Golden we raise.
OUR ADOPTION PROCESS
CHOOSING AN ETHICAL BREEDER
CHOOSING AN ETHICAL BREEDER
Understanding Our Adult Dogs
Our dams are the heart of our breeding program. Each one is CKC-registered, DNA-tested, and fully OFA-cleared for hips, elbows, heart, and eyes. We work exclusively with select, trusted sires who complement each dam’s genetics, temperament, and lineage — ensuring every litter reflects the highest standards of health, structure, and emotional soundness.
Learning about our girls and their chosen sires helps families understand the depth of care and intention behind each puppy we raise.
Why Parent Health Testing Matters
Responsible breeding begins long before puppies arrive.
That is why we ensure:
• CKC registration for all dams
• Full OFA screening (hips, elbows, cardiac, ophthalmic)
• DNA certification for breed-specific genetic conditions
• Thoughtful sire selection based on health, temperament, and pedigree
These safeguards help ensure your puppy comes from strong, healthy lines with predictable temperament and structure.
Your Part in the Journey
Welcoming a Golden Retriever is a meaningful decision, and we encourage families to move through the process with care, curiosity, and confidence.
We recommend families:
• Research the breed to ensure it aligns with their lifestyle
• Ask to see OFA and DNA certifications
• Learn about both breeding parents
• Prepare their home environment thoughtfully
• Consider long-term care, training, and wellness support
Where your puppy comes from should matter as much as where your puppy is going — and we value families who share this philosophy.
Mutual Connection Matters Most
We believe the relationship between breeder and family should feel natural, calm, and grounded in trust. As part of our thoughtful placement process, we ask each prospective family to provide a personal reference. This simple step helps us ensure our puppies join homes that reflect the same values of love, commitment, and life-long care.
When values align, the experience feels warm, supportive, and right — for you, for us, and most importantly, for your puppy.
CHOOSING AN ETHICAL BREEDER
CHOOSING AN ETHICAL BREEDER
CHOOSING AN ETHICAL BREEDER
What Ethical Breeding Looks Like
Ethical breeding is rooted in responsibility, transparency, and genuine respect for the wellbeing of both parent dogs and their puppies. A reputable breeder demonstrates:
• Comprehensive health testing — OFA certifications for hips, elbows, heart, and eyes, plus DNA panels for genetic conditions
• Thoughtful pairing of dams and sires for health, temperament, and lineage
• A home-based upbringing that nurtures calm, confident puppies
• Structured early development, including ENS and Puppy Culture foundations
• Clear communication about health, lineage, and care practices
• Lifelong responsibility to every dog they produce
These practices reflect integrity and long-term commitment to the breed.
Shared Values & Trust
The right breeder will help you feel informed, supported, and never pressured. Ethical breeders:
• Welcome questions and offer clear, honest answers
• Encourage a natural, mutual sense of trust
• Share their philosophy openly so families understand how puppies are raised
A relationship built on shared values creates confidence from the start.
Alignment & Peace of Mind
You should feel that your breeder’s priorities mirror your own. Look for:
• Genuine investment in where each puppy goes
• A calm, steady process that feels thoughtful, not rushed
• A philosophy that aligns with your expectations for health, care, and early development
When values match, the entire journey feels right — for you and your future dog.
Island Time Goldens Placement Approach
To ensure the best possible placement, we:
• Request a personal reference from each prospective family
• Offer full transparency about our practices and parent dogs
• Prioritise thoughtful matches over quick placements
This helps ensure our puppies join homes that reflect love, responsibility, and long-term commitment.
Our Promise to Families
We are always happy to answer questions and support you through the decision-making process.
Our goal is simple:
To help you choose the breeder who feels right for you — whether that is Island Time Goldens or another ethical, reputable breeder who shares your values.
QUESTIONS TO ASK A BREEDER
CHOOSING AN ETHICAL BREEDER
QUESTIONS TO ASK A BREEDER
Health & Genetic Standards
A reputable breeder is fully open about screening and certifications. Consider asking:
• Are both breeding parents CKC/AKC registered and fully OFA certified?
• Are DNA panels completed for breed-specific genetic conditions?
• Can you review the parents’ clearances and veterinary records?
Health testing reflects commitment — not convenience.
Where & How Puppies Are Raised
A puppy’s environment sets the emotional tone for life. Ask:
• Are the puppies raised in the breeder’s home, not in a kennel or guardianship?
• What daily experiences help them adjust to household life?
• How does the breeder support confidence, calmness, and early trust?
Early surroundings shape long-term wellbeing.
Socialization & Early Development
Structured early learning is essential. Ask:
• Do you use ENS and Puppy Culture foundations?
• How are puppies introduced to people, handling, textures, and sound?
• Is the process gentle, progressive, and age-appropriate?
Thoughtful early exposure builds emotional resilience.
Nutrition, Wellness & Daily Care
A breeder should have a clear wellness philosophy. Ask:
• What food do the puppies eat and why?
• What natural wellness practices or supplements are used?
• How is overall growth and stress reduction supported?
Consistency and clarity indicate a mindful approach.
Support, Ethics & Lifelong Responsibility
Your relationship with a breeder should not end on pick-up day. Ask:
• What support is available once the puppy goes home?
• Will the breeder take the dog back if circumstances change?
• Are they members of recognized breed clubs?
Ethical breeders stand behind every dog — for life.
NATURAL CARE: CLEAN LIVING FOR GOLDENS
Natural care is one of the guiding principles at Island Time Goldens. We believe that a dog’s environment, daily routine, and emotional landscape all contribute to lifelong vitality. Clean living is our commitment to creating spaces and practices that support balance, comfort, and wellness — naturally and intentionally.
What Clean Living Includes:
• Pure, high-quality nutrition without artificial dyes, fillers, or preservatives
• Non-toxic cleaning products to minimise chemical exposure in all dog areas
• Filtered water and clean bowls to support internal balance
• Natural grooming products that protect skin and coat gently
• Comfortable, well-ventilated spaces filled with natural light and fresh airflow
• Energy-balancing practices such as BioCharger sessions, gentle massage, or grounding walks in nature
• Emotional cleanliness through calm handling, steady routines, and positive reinforcement
A Philosophy Rooted in Intention
Clean living means raising dogs in an environment shaped by care, clarity, and respect — where every choice, from daily routines to wellness practices, nurtures calmness, balance, and a long, vibrant life. At Island Time Goldens, wellness and lifestyle matters.
Island Time Goldens – Health & Purchase Guarantee
Veterinary Health & Initial Care
Every Island Time Golden begins life with attentive, full-time care and the highest standard of veterinary oversight.
Before going home, each puppy receives:
• A complete wellness examination by a licensed veterinarian
• Age-appropriate vaccinations
• A deworming schedule suited to their development
• A registered microchip for permanent identification
• A detailed Health Record including all dates, treatments, and microchip information
For puppies travelling to their new families, all veterinary documents and microchip registration details are included in the puppy’s travel file.
First-Week Veterinary Examination
We require that your puppy be examined by a licensed veterinarian within seven (7) days of arriving home.
If a congenital or hereditary condition is identified that impacts long-term quality of life:
• Contact us immediately
• Provide a written veterinary report confirming the diagnosis
Upon review and confirmation, and if the puppy is returned within one week of the exam in the same physical and emotional condition, we will offer either:
• A replacement puppy of equal value from the next available litter, or
• A full refund of the purchase price
This guarantee does not include minor or treatable conditions such as parasites or illnesses acquired after leaving our care.
Veterinary and shipping expenses are the responsibility of the buyer.
Two-Year Genetic Health Guarantee
We are committed to raising puppies with sound structure, resilient health, and long-term vitality.
Island Time Goldens provides a 24-month genetic health guarantee covering:
• Moderate to severe hip dysplasia
• Moderate to severe elbow dysplasia
• Grade 5/6 or higher congenital heart murmurs
• Hereditary eye disorders
To maintain this guarantee, families must:
• Provide a premium, balanced diet (TLC Whole Life or equivalent)
• Maintain a healthy weight and regular veterinary care
• Avoid excessive exercise, repetitive stair climbing, or strenuous activity during growth
Diagnostic Requirements
• OFA preliminary results for hips and elbows, or
• A cardiologist’s echocardiogram, or
• A certified ophthalmologist report
Upon confirmation, we will:
• Offer a replacement puppy of equal value, or
• Reimburse up to 50% of the purchase price toward medical care
A second opinion or DNA verification may be requested.
General Conditions
• This guarantee applies only to the original buyer and is non-transferable.
• We do not guarantee size, coat colour, or breeding suitability.
• Injury, accidents, neglect, infectious disease, over-exercise, obesity, or poor nutrition void all guarantees.
• If breeding operations cease, all replacement obligations are considered fulfilled.
• Except where stated, no monetary refunds are offered.
Right to Cancel Prior to Transfer
Island Time Goldens reserves the right to cancel a placement before a puppy reaches eight (8) weeks of age if circumstances or suitability concerns arise.
In such cases, deposits will be refunded in full within seven (7) days.
Our Promise
Every puppy we raise leaves our care with love, intention, and a meaningful foundation for life.
Our guarantees exist to honour the integrity of the breed and to support the families who welcome our puppies.
We stand beside you with guidance, education, and lifelong support — because once an Island Time Golden joins your home, you join our family as well.
What do I do if I can't keep my puppy?
Returns or Rehoming
The lifelong wellbeing of every Island Time Golden is at the heart of our program.
If a family can no longer keep their dog — at any age — we ask that they contact us immediately.
We will always welcome one of our dogs back, no questions asked, to ensure they are placed safely and responsibly.
If a return or rehoming arrangement is required, the buyer is responsible for all associated transportation expenses, including veterinary clearances, travel crates, airline freight, or ground transport to Vancouver Island or the designated destination.
Our promise is simple: no Island Time Golden will ever be left without a safe and loving home.
Buyer Responsibilities & Ongoing Care
Welcoming a puppy comes with long-term commitments that help safeguard their health and uphold our guarantees. Families agree to:
Veterinary Examination
Have their puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian within seven (7) days of pickup or delivery.
This activates the Health Guarantee. Any concerns must be reported to Island Time Goldens with a written veterinary report.
Purpose of Sale
All puppies are placed as companion animals.
Dogs sold under Limited Registration must not be bred or resold to pet shops, brokers, or kennels.
Nutrition & Supplements
Provide a balanced, premium diet that supports growth, joint health, and proper weight management.
Our two-year health guarantee is valid only when appropriate nutrition and healthy weight are maintained.
Veterinary Care & Vaccinations
Continue routine veterinary care, annual wellness exams, vaccinations, and parasite prevention.
Failure to maintain proper medical care or documentation may void applicable guarantees.
(Unless an alternative plan has been mutually agreed upon with ITG.)
Lifestyle & Exercise
Provide a safe, enriched home with appropriate exercise, supervision, and daily companionship.
Puppies must not be left chained, unattended, or in unsafe conditions.
Early training, grooming, and obedience classes are strongly encouraged.
Spay/Neuter/Hormone Sparing Policy
Spay or neuter no earlier than 12 months of age (or per veterinary recommendation).
Dogs sold under Limited Registration must never be used for breeding.
Valuation
The value of the dog for all contractual purposes is limited to the original purchase price and does not include secondary costs such as shipping, veterinary care, training, or emotional value.
Return-to-Breeder Clause
If a family can no longer care for their dog, he or she must be returned to Island Time Goldens.
The dog may not be surrendered to a shelter, rescue, or third party.
Shipping & Transportation
For families outside Vancouver Island, puppies may travel by air once they reach eight (8) weeks of age and have completed their first vaccinations, deworming, microchip registration, and wellness exam.
Shipping arrangements are discussed individually, and all associated costs — airfare, travel crate, and handling fees — are the buyer’s responsibility.
While every precaution is taken to ensure safe travel, Island Time Goldens cannot be held liable for airline delays, injury, or loss once the puppy has departed our care.
All shipped puppies are guaranteed healthy at the time of departure and covered for 72 hours under the standard Health Guarantee.
Our Shared Promise
Owning a Golden Retriever is a lifelong partnership.
By purchasing an Island Time Golden, families agree to uphold the same standards of care, compassion, and responsibility with which each puppy has been raised.
Together, we ensure that every Island Time Golden lives a life filled with balance, wellness, safety, and unconditional love.
Limitation Guarantee
Health Maintenance & Nutrition Policy
Conditions That Void Health Guarantees
To uphold the longevity, soundness, and wellbeing of every Island Time Golden, certain conditions will void all health guarantees. These guidelines ensure that each puppy receives the quality of care required to support joint development, growth, and long-term vitality.
Improper Weight Management
Maintaining a healthy weight is essential.
Guarantees are void if a dog is allowed to become obese or undernourished at any time.
• Underfed: ribs and spine visibly pronounced; poor muscle tone
• Ideal: ribs easily felt under a light layer of muscle; visible waistline
• Overfed: rounded abdomen; no visible waist from above
Neglect or Abuse
Any evidence of neglect, inadequate exercise, poor shelter, emotional mistreatment, or unsafe living conditions voids all guarantees immediately.
Prior Trauma or Injury
Injuries caused by accidents, falls, fractures, or any trauma unrelated to genetics are not covered under the guarantee.
Breeding Without Authorization
Dogs sold on Limited Registration must never be bred.
Any breeding voids all guarantees in full.
Strenuous or Unsafe Activity
Excessive or inappropriate exercise — including treadmill use, repetitive jumping, jogging before maturity, excessive stair climbing, or fetch on slippery surfaces — may damage developing joints and void the guarantee.
Accidents, Poisoning, or Negligence
Island Time Goldens cannot be held responsible for injuries, poisoning, or accidents occurring after the puppy leaves our care.
Transfer of Ownership
All guarantees apply only to the original buyer listed on the purchase agreement and are non-transferable.
Nutrition & Lifelong Wellness
We believe that prevention creates the foundation for lifelong health. Quality nutrition and appropriate supplements support strong immunity, balanced growth, and joint protection during every stage of development.
Our puppies begin life on TLC Whole Life Puppy Food and NuVet natural supplements, chosen for their premium quality and whole-body support.
This combination helps promote:
• Optimal skeletal development
• Healthy skin and a glossy coat
• Strong immune and digestive systems
• Reduced inflammation and allergy sensitivity
• Improved joint health, vitality, and longevity
The antioxidant profile and balanced formulation help defend against oxidative stress linked to chronic conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, cataracts, and certain cancers.
While we respect each family’s feeding philosophy, we strongly recommend continuing the TLC Whole Life Puppy & Dog Food program and NuVet supplement regime (or equivalent premium holistic diet) throughout your Golden’s lifetime.
Consistent, high-quality nutrition ensures that your English Cream Golden thrives with the health, temperament, and resilience the breed is celebrated for.
Our Closing Wish
It is our heartfelt hope that your Island Time Golden brings balance, joy, and companionship to your home for many years to come.
Your puppy’s strong beginning is the result of intentional breeding, enriched early development, holistic care, and thoughtful nutrition.
Thank you for continuing the circle of care we began — and for giving this special soul a home where love and wellbeing truly matter.
Contact Us
Reserve Your New Family Member!
At Island Time Goldens, every decision begins with the wellbeing of our dogs. Finding the right match matters far more than any sale.
Island Time Goldens
Parksville, British Columbia, Canada
Shelley Clerx 604 837 0289 shelley@islandtimegoldens.com
Our Memberships & Product Partners
Commitment to Ethical Breeding Practices
At Island Time Goldens, ethical breeding is not simply a responsibility — it is a heartfelt promise. We are honoured to play a small part in the beginning of each puppy’s story, and we approach that role with tenderness, intention, and deep respect for the Golden Retriever breed.
Guided by the values of the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), we believe every purebred dog should reflect the very best of its heritage. For us, this means raising puppies who are healthy, emotionally balanced, and true to the gentle, loving spirit that defines the Golden Retriever. The CKC Code of Practice for Member Breeders is woven into our everyday work, grounding our choices and ensuring that integrity guides every decision.
Responsible breeding, to us, is a blend of knowledge and devotion. It means studying lineage, genetics, and temperament with care — and trusting our hearts to choose sires that complement our cherished dams. Each pairing is made with intention, with the goal of strengthening future generations while honouring the timeless beauty of the breed.
Our dams live with us as loved members of our family. They receive attentive veterinary care, full genetic and structural screenings, nourishing nutrition, and the emotional support that comes from a safe and loving home. The sires we choose are sourced from equally reputable CKC breeders who share our values of health, temperament, and ethical stewardship. Together, these thoughtful pairings help us raise puppies who embody confidence, kindness, and soundness of body and mind.
We also believe transparency and honesty are essential when guiding families through the adoption process. Under the Animal Pedigree Act, all purebred puppies must be registered with the CKC, and families must receive their certificate within six (6) months of purchase. We embrace this not merely as a regulation, but as a reflection of our own commitment to clarity, responsibility, and respect for the breed.
At Island Time Goldens, our promise is simple:
To protect the integrity of the Golden Retriever, to nurture each puppy with love and intention, and to walk beside our families with kindness, guidance, and lifelong support.