Lynn grew up in the Midwest and was raised in an animal-oriented family -- horses, dogs and cats. When her children were in their teens she acquired her first Afghan Hound (in 1971). She joined the Fox Run Kennel (established by Colin Stees in the 1960's) and decided to start showing in 1978.

Fox Run has 40-plus Champions, with three generations of SBIS/BIS Afghans. Her dogs have received Awards of Merit at the Afghan Hound Club of America National Specialty, were at the prestigious AKC Centennial and were invited to the Purina Invitational.

Ms. Mercer started judging Afghans in 1993 and is now a provisional judge for Salukis. She has also judged sweepstakes for Dachshunds, Curly-Coated Retriever and all-breed matches