Od Kanade do Konavala — i priča između.

As many of you know, I am working hard to bring my vision to life—a webshop grooming salon, and kennel that will serve both the local community and traveling pet owners. A huge milestone in this journey has already been reached: I have officially been approved for my Czechoslovakian Wolfdog kennel! To celebrate this achievement, I wanted to see my vision come to life in a tangible way—the logo I designed, beautifully crafted into reality. 

A Logo Full of Meaning

To bring my design to life, I turned to Stapart Dizajn and the talented Nikolina, who exceeded every expectation. The final result is nothing short of breathtaking. Made entirely out of wood, each delicate piece was painstakingly cut and hand-painted, ensuring that every color and detail matched my original vision. The accuracy and craftsmanship she put into painting the small details, especially the background bridge, truly amazed me.

The Historical Bridge That Ties It All Together

The bridge in my logo is more than just a design element—it represents an important piece of history. It is a tribute to the old Ćiro train bridge, a landmark deeply embedded in the landscape of Konavle. Once part of the historic narrow-gauge railway system, this bridge was a key link in the journey between Dubrovnik and the rest of the region, allowing both locals and travellers to cross the rugged terrain of Konavle’s countryside.

Though the train that once crossed this bridge no longer runs, the memory of its importance remains. Today, this bridge has been transformed into a scenic hiking trail, known as Ćiro II, which offers walkers a chance to experience the region’s stunning beauty, history, and tranquillity. The path follows in the footsteps of the old railway, bringing the past to life for modern-day explorers.

For me, this bridge holds a personal significance. It’s not just a historical landmark—it’s a part of my everyday life. Twice a day, without fail, my dogs and I walk this bridge as part of our routine. With each step, I am reminded of the deep connection this place has to both my past and my present. The bridge stands as a symbol of transition, of continuity, and of the stories that shape us over time. Just as it once connected distant places, it now connects me to my home, my heritage, and my dreams for the future.

The Souls Behind the Logo

Beyond the bridge, the heart of my logo is my dogs, each with a special place in my journey. Jura and Heze, my Czechoslovakian Wolfdogs, proudly stand as symbols of the kennel I am building. But in the very center, sitting tall and proud, is Nikita, our little rescue dog. She may be small, but her presence is immense—her resilience and happiness inspire me every day.

Jura, my first Czechoslovakian Wolfdog, came to me in 2020 from a breeder in Zagreb. Though he does not have pedigree papers, his arrival sparked something in me—it set me on a path I never expected. Four years later, that journey took me all the way to Slovakia (with the love of my life, I might add!), where I met Heze Dream Sonata Carpathica and their lovely breeder Erika Trombitasova Krštieňová. Even though I am all the way in Croatia, since I had another wolfdog, she thought I had a good foundation to keep another. I am so glad she trusted me, because Heze Dream became the foundation of my kennel and the reason I stepped into the world of dog shows.

Our very first dog show 

was not just any event—it was the World Dog Show in Zagreb 2024, one of the most prestigious canine events in the world. Held annually under the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), the World Dog Show brings together top breeders, handlers, and dog lovers from across the globe to compete at the highest level.

For us, it was a nerve-wracking but unforgettable experience, marking the beginning of my dedication to showcasing and preserving the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog breed. Heze Dream Sonata Carpathica made an incredible debut, winning Minor Puppy World Winner at just 4 months old! Seeing her in the ring, standing proudly among future champions, was a moment of pure joy and validation for the path we are on. This victory was more than just a title—it was the first step toward our future in the show world and the start of something much bigger. The World Dog Show may have been our first, but it certainly won’t be our last.  

Since the World Dog Show in Zagreb, we’ve had the privilege of attending many more shows, and each one has been a new chapter in our journey. Heze has already earned titles such as Puppy Bosnian Champion, Junior Bosnian Champion, and Future Hope of Croatia. She’s even won a Best in Show Minor Puppy in Umag Croatia—an achievement that fills my heart with pride. But what’s even more meaningful to me is how these shows are helping me grow beyond the rings.

Overcoming Personal Growth Through Dog Shows 

As someone who has always struggled with shyness and nervousness around people, being in such a competitive environment can be daunting. However, these experiences are pushing me to face my fears, one show at a time. With each event, I’m learning to step out of my comfort zone, and even though it’s not always easy, it’s a challenge I embrace.

It’s not just about the titles or the wins—it’s about the personal growth that comes with it. Heze and I are not only becoming champions in the ring, but we’re also growing stronger as a team, overcoming our own hurdles together. And with every new title, I’m reminded that the journey is just as important as the destination. 

 And through it all, I’m incredibly grateful for Ivan, my partner, who has been my unwavering support. His belief in me and our dreams has been a constant source of strength. Whether it’s walking the Ćiro trail together, sharing moments of success, or navigating the challenges that come with this journey, having him by my side makes all the difference. This journey isn’t just mine—it’s ours. 

A Train Station Destination, in Style and Color

The inspiration behind my logo goes beyond the imagery—it extends to its color theme and overall style, both carefully chosen to reflect an old train station’s destination sign. The colors were directly inspired by the Ćiro train, evoking a sense of nostalgia and deep connection to history.

The Ćiro narrow-gauge railway was an essential part of life in this region, connecting Dubrovnik to inland Bosnia and Herzegovina. Originally constructed during the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the railway was completed in 1901, creating a crucial transportation link that allowed for the movement of people, goods, and culture across borders. The train’s characteristic black steam engine and yellow-beige wagons became a familiar sight, deeply embedded in the memories of those who lived alongside its tracks.

However, as modernization took hold, narrow-gauge railways were gradually phased out in favor of highways and larger rail systems. The Ćiro railway was officially discontinued in 1976, marking the end of an era. Over time, the tracks were removed, and the once-busy stations stood silent.

But history is never truly lost. Today, the former railway line has been transformed into the Ćiro cycling and hiking trail, preserving its legacy while giving people a new way to experience its path. The Ćiro II trail, which my home and kennel are connected to, follows this historic route, allowing us to walk in the footsteps of the past—quite literally.

The entire design of my logo is meant to capture this feeling: arriving at a place that holds meaning—a final stop that represents home, heritage, and a new beginning. Just like the old railway once brought people together, my journey with my dogs, my kennel, and my business is about building something meaningful and lasting.

A Home with a Story

Nestled in the heart of Konavle, a stunning region just south of Dubrovnik, this area is known for its rich landscapes, vibrant culture, and beautiful Adriatic coastline. Konavle is made up of several picturesque villages, such as Cavtat, a charming coastal town, Mikulici, Pločice, and Karasovići, each offering a glimpse into the region’s diverse history. The area is also home to Konavle’s agricultural lands, where olive groves and vineyards dot the hillsides, creating an idyllic backdrop for our life here.

This region, with its Mediterranean climate and breath-taking views, has always felt like home. The old Pločice train station is not just a building—it is a testament to the history of this place, and it is now part of my story.

The inspiration behind the logo is not only the breathtaking Dalmatian cypress trees of Konavle but also something even more personal—my home. This house, which once served as the Pločice train station, holds deep family roots. It is where my father, Miho Perak, grew up, and now, fate has brought me back to the same place, sharing this home with the love of my life.

But the journey that led me here is equally important. I’m originally from Canada, and at the age of 30, I moved to Croatia in 2019 under a scholarship to study Croatian. In June 2021, I returned to the south of Croatia to my grandmother’s house, and that is when I found my way to this very place in Konavle. It’s not just about the house—it’s about coming full circle, building my future, and living the dream I always envisioned.

And while the Ćiro train no longer runs, its spirit lives on in new ways. Every day, as we walk the old railway path with our dogs, we are reminded that history is not just something behind us—it moves forward with us. Our home, once a station for travellers, is now a place of new beginnings. With my love Ivan, and our dogs Jura, Heze, and Nikita by my side, this journey continues—one step, one paw print, and one dream at a time.

This is our train station, our final destination—but also the start of something even greater.