Back in early May, I had the privilege of visiting Ann “Cambray” Coppage of Vulcan Kennels — a moment that felt nothing short of a dream come true. Walking into her home was a little like stepping into history, as though I were being welcomed by royalty.
Ann Coppage was an extraordinary breeder whose thoughtful, strategic approach shaped generations of exceptional dogs. Her kennels produced numerous champions, a testament not only to her skill but also to her unwavering dedication to the breed. She was a respected judge, a forward-thinking voice in the dog world, and one of the early, courageous advocates for parti-coloured poodles long before they were widely accepted. Her influence will echo for decades to come.
I brought Margo with me that day, and Ann was utterly delighted by her. She admired her beautiful face, her striking colour, and the correctness of her feet and tail. Ann told me, with warm certainty, that silvers and blues are the most devoted of the standard poodles. She patted the sofa and made a place for Margo beside her, gently stroking her face and whispering little secrets into her ear. Margo sat there as though she were a loyal royal companion, completely entranced. Watching them together is a memory I will always cherish.
We spent the afternoon chatting, poring over old pedigrees, and losing ourselves in the vast archive of her past dogs. I felt as though I’d found a kindred spirit — someone who shared my love of poodle genetics and the stories woven into each lineage. I could easily have stayed for weeks and still only scratched the surface of her knowledge.
Even then, Ann spoke of moving from the kennels to a bungalow as her health declined, yet she remained characteristically gracious, generous, and endlessly curious. Before I left, she asked me to bring my own pedigrees next time so she could look them over. I was honoured, and I looked forward to learning even more from her.
It saddens me to say that there will be no next time.
Ann Coppage has now passed away, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy — not only in her dogs, but in everyone she inspired, encouraged, and welcomed into her world. In the days after hearing of her passing, I found myself writing a poem in her honour — a small tribute to a woman whose influence reached far beyond her kennels and into the hearts of so many, including mine.
I will forever be grateful to have met her, to have shared that quiet afternoon, and to have sat in the presence of one of my heroes.
Rest in peace, Ann. The poodle world shines brighter because you were in it.
Echoes in the Ring
From quiet rings to busy halls,
Where champions rose to take their place,
She started small; a kennel maid,
And soon became Vulcan Champagne.
She made up champions, one by one,
And as her Kennel rose to fame,
She mentored and trained others,
So that they could do the same.
From black to silver, red to white,
And all colours in between,
no matter what, she loved them all;
Scruffy pets or coats pristine.
She knew each and every pedigree,
Or at least thats how it seemed -
Because if you asked her she would know,
the stories behind her cherished breed.
She rescued dogs in need of care,
And shared her knowledge wise and kind,
And when age slowed her stride,
She never left her passion behind.
At Crufts each year, she'd sit ringside,
With catalogue in hand,
Watching poodles take their place - the finest in the land.
So let us walk through quiet rings,
Where champions rise and echoes call,
Her voice remains in all it brings,
An inspiration to us all.
