Meet the owner and breeder

About Me

I completed my Bachelor of Science degree at The University of Western Australia, where I graduated with a double major in Botany and Zoology. My studies included very relevant units such as functional morphology, population genetics, behavioural ecology and animal ecology. I was invited to undertake Honours in both majors.

Later, my career shifted from the scientific into town planning. I have worked in local government for 15 years as a Town Planner, holding a Graduate Certificate in Development Planning from Curtin University. I concurrently serve as a Branch Executive Councillor (Local Government Division) for the Western Australian Services Union.

In 2022 I was accredited by the Australian Carriage Driving Society as a Cones Course Judge and Cones Course Designer. This rounded out my 30+ years experience with horses and horse ownership across a variety of disciplines including halter shows, endurance, carriage driving and pony club, where I demonstrated C* proficiency.

In 2024 I became a member of the Committee and Chief Steward for WA Earthdog and Bale Hunt under the auspices of the Dachshund Club of Western Australia. I am a member of the Working Party which is establishing the foundations of Earthdog in WA and paving the pathway for Barn Hunt gaining recognition with ANKC.

The Path to Showing and Breeding Dogs

I have owned larger dogs, including Labradors and a retired greyhound from Greyhounds as Pets. I now wanted a dog with:

Smaller stature
High trainability
Very few genetic health issues
Low maintenance coat

My research across many breeds resulted in me finding the Little Viking Dog: the Swedish Vallhund, which exceeded all my specific criteria.

I maintain close communication with fellow breeders Ausled, Akka, Lokynnda and Asger as we work together to preserve Swedish Vallhunds. Additionally, I presented a lecture on the Swedish Vallhunds to the trainee judges in 2024 and organised 3 vallhunds to provide hands-on experience, furthering the education and experience of new judges on the preferred qualities of the breed.

The Conformation Show Ring

In 2022 I was fortunate that ROYALDRAGON Kennels mentored me in person in the art of conformation showing. I assisted in preparing and handling Miniature Dachshund (Smooth) Annaric Royal Sea Dragon on her journey to Australian Champion.

I assisted KARLYERMAI Kennels with holding, grooming and organising their Australian Silky Terriers for their classes, with the CIB and Australian Supreme Champion Karlyermai Gotta Bea Rokstar as the primary recipient of my attention.

Both breeders gave me the honour of assisting them in Perth Royal Show 2022, ensuring I had the full showing experience prior to showcasing my own dogs.

Canine Studies and Credentials

I continue to build upon my contemporary knowledge of breeding practices and issues by completing various courses and attending lectures.

I completed the Canine Association of WA Conformation Stewarding Course in 2022. The All Breeds Championship Show hosted by Fremantle Dog Club on 30 October 2022 was the first event I stewarded, assisting Mr. M. Raidy from Indonesia in judging Group 4.

I have attended the Good Dog Second Annual Health Symposium and breeding lectures held at DogsWest to learn of breeding issues and how to care for the bitch and neonates.

I apply the scientifically supported principles of Puppy Culture to raising puppies, incorporating 'Super Dog Program' practices and bio sensor stimulation exercises.

I have completed American Kennel Club's Canine College courses on genetics, anatomy and genetics to further understand and appreciate canine anatomy, movement and breeding.

I have completed several years and hundreds of hours volunteering and supervising at Kanyana Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, where I performed triaging, husbandry and ongoing care of native wildlife.

Memberships

I am a member of Dogs West, the governing body for all registered breeders in Western Australia. I am a current or previous member of:

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse