Zone 1 Nominee

I have proudly represented Zone 1 members at the CKC Board table since 2023, ensuring our region has a meaningful voice in national discussions. I have worked hard to strengthen Atlantic representation while proving myself to be a confident, knowledgeable and effective voice at the table.

During my term, I have:
-Served as a liaison between members and government agencies.
-Demonstrated leadership in areas such as emergency preparedness.
-Been instrumental in bringing the new Fetch program to CKC.
-Assisted members in establishing new clubs and having titles from other organizations recognized by CKC.
-Hosted educational Zoom sessions on heat stroke, fresh and saltwater toxicity, and fire preparedness.
-Helped finalize a kennel inspection checklist designed to showcase excellence in animal husbandry.
-Provided regular updates through my Facebook group to keep members informed about CKC initiatives, agendas and issues.

I am a strong advocate for purebred dogs, responsible breeding, and canine health and welfare. For more than eight years, I have helped bring cardiac clinics to Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Newfoundland, while also organizing educational seminars to support breeders and promote responsible breeding practices.

My involvement in the dog community extends beyond CKC. I am a past Nova Scotia Provincial Evaluator for the SJA Therapy Dog Program and was honoured to be called to The Order of St. John in recognition of my service. Today, I am a member of Therapeutic Dogs of Canada, and my Labrador, Swayze, and I participate in the Read Program, helping children build confidence while learning to read.

My passion for our dogs, our sport and our community is genuine. I am asking for your support for re-election so I can keep the momentum going and continue building on what we have accomplished together.

Zone 2 Nominee

With more than 34 years of involvement in the purebred dog community, I bring hands-on experience to my role as a Canadian Kennel Club Director. I am a longtime successful breeder and exhibitor of Manchester, Wire Fox, Lakeland and Russell Terriers. As a retired military member with a background in human resources and finance, I also bring valuable leadership, organizational and financial experience to the Board table.

Over the years, I have served in local and national clubs, held every executive role, and helped organize events. These experiences have given me a strong appreciation for the dedication and volunteerism required to keep clubs and events successful.

During my 2023–2026 term on the CKC Board, I serve as Chair of the Conformation Council, Chair of the Beagle and Basset Hound Trial Council, Chair of the Board Orientation and Education Committee, and a member of the Legislation Committee. These roles have allowed me to contribute to decisions affecting CKC members, clubs, and events across Canada, while ensuring Zone 2 members in Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick are heard at the Board table.

One of my main priorities has been keeping Zone 2 members informed. I believe good representation means engaging with members, providing timely, relevant, and accurate information, listening to their questions and concerns, and bringing their perspectives forward.

I am asking for your support for re-election so I can build on the work of the past three years and provide committed, informed and accessible representation.
 

Zone 2 Nominee

I have been a CKC member for 46 years, successfully breeding and exhibiting Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (CKCS) since 1978 in conformation and obedience – producing BIS, BISS, OTCH and numerous Champions/Grand Champions. I am a licensed Obedience and Rally judge and have judged across North America and the current President of the CKCS Club of Atlantic Canada.

I proudly served on the CKC Board for eight years – representing Zone 2 for six years, and Zone 6 for two years. During this time, I was involved in Councils and Committees, including: Obedience, Hunt, WC, Beagles and CGN. While serving Zone 2, I was involved in representing the membership concerns to the Government of NB, concerning provincial by-laws discussions. I bring a thorough understanding of CKC policy and procedures, which helps with Board decisions.

I believe in actively engaging the membership regarding issues affecting the CKC, ensuring their voices are represented. To gather feedback, through multiple channels, including in-person and virtual townhalls, emails, social media and will attend events across the Zone. I will endeavour to ensure opportunities for ongoing judges’ education and provide support for our Junior Handlers in the Zone.

Zone 3 Nominee

A Life Member of the Canadian Kennel Club, which I joined in 1985, I have been actively involved in purebred dogs for more than 40 years as a breeder, owner, exhibitor and volunteer. I have contributed to numerous clubs in the Montreal area and currently serve on the CKC Breeder Relations Committee.
 
My involvement also extends internationally. I have bred, owned and exhibited champion dogs in Canada, the United States and Europe. I am a member of the Portuguese Water Dog clubs of Canada, the United States and Great Britain and serve on the Breeder Support and Education Committee of the Portuguese Water Dog Club of America.
 
Professionally, I bring more than 20 years of experience as a senior leader within complex international organizations, including the United Nations. My experience encompasses governance, strategic planning, policy development, financial and budget management, and stakeholder engagement. I have been responsible for budgets of USD 40-60 million within operations valued at up to USD 330 million.
 
Deeply committed to the CKC and to the future of purebred dogs, I would welcome the opportunity to bring my experience, integrity, judgement, enthusiasm and community-based approach to the service of Quebec members and the CKC.

Zone 3 Nominee

A lawyer by training, I am a grievance arbitrator and labour relations mediator. Having practiced law for more than twenty years, I have acquired extensive experience in governance, regulatory interpretation, decision-making and finding fair solutions.

I entered the dog fancy almost by chance and immediately became passionate about it. I have been breeding French Bulldogs under the MASINO kennel name for eight years and actively participate, as an exhibitor and owner, in conformation and performance events.

My commitment is also grounded in practical experience in organizational governance. I co-founded the Justine and Florence Foundation, served for more than ten years as a director of the CRDITED de la Montérégie-Est and am a co-founder of the Union des éleveurs canins du Québec. From 2022 to 2025, I also served on the Canadian Kennel Club’s Registration Committee.

I want to actively represent Quebec members, be a strong voice for francophones and ensure that the concerns of Zone 3 members are better heard. At a time when responsible breeders face growing challenges, I want to champion their contribution, promote the value of purebred dogs, preserve their genetic heritage and, above all, ensure they receive the recognition they deserve from the general public.

Zone 4 Nominee

A lifelong owner, breeder, and exhibitor of purebred dogs, I have been a proud member of the Canadian Kennel Club for my entire adult life. Over the years, I have successfully earned titles in both Conformation and Performance competitions and have had the privilege of breeding Belgian Shepherds and Shetland Sheepdogs.

From 1975–1999, I bred Belgian Shepherds under the Gemfire kennel name. Today, I continue my passion for breeding Shetland Sheepdogs under the MacLaren name. As an all-breed Conformation Judge, I have gained a broad perspective and deep appreciation for the diversity and excellence within our sport.

My commitment to the dog community extends well beyond the ring. I am the past President of both the Belgian Shepherd Club of Canadaand the Canadian Shetland Sheepdog Associationand have held numerous other club positions within both organizations. I currently serve as President and Show Chairman of the Kawartha Kennel Club.

I am seeking a position on the CKC Board (Zone 4) because I believe our organization benefits from directors who bring practical experience, informed perspective, sound business judgment, and a genuine understanding of the membership they serve. I want to contribute to ensuring that the CKC remains relevant, responsive, financially responsible, and focused on supporting the future of purebred dogs and the people dedicated to them.

Professionally, I am a consultant in the automotive aftermarket and OEM parts industry, with extensive experience in business strategy, marketing, consulting, and project development. My work has involved collaborating with diverse and key stakeholders across Canada, as well as leading the design and construction of OEM vehicle dealerships and collision centres. These experiences have strengthened my skills in leadership, negotiation, financial decision-making, strategic planning, and project execution.

Zone 4 Nominee

I have a post secondary education in physical fitness from Fanshawe College, which included course study in anatomy, kinesiology, psychology and biomechanics.

I worked in several gyms in the London Ontario as a personal trainer.  I moved out of the city and onto a farm and bred Arabian horses and started a 30-year career as a farrier.

In 2005 we purchased our 1st show dog, a miniature poodle.  Following a few years of trial and error we found our beloved whippets.  We have been showing and breeding under the Shetara prefix for over 20 years. 

I have now entered the ring as a confirmation judge, starting with the hound group.  I have been the show chair for Nipissing Kennel Club for the past 3 years and currently serve as their secretary.

My professional career has been as a dedicated Federal Public servant for 26 years with Statistics Canada.  Throughout my tenure there I have held 3 different positions from a basic clerk, supervisor and a manager.  I have been a very active member of our local union holding positions as a shop steward, co-chair of Occupational Health and Safety, sat at the table with our contract negotiating team and most recently a 4-year term as their President.

I have a very good understanding of Health and Safety, the Canada Labour code and basic contract law from the countless grievances that I have represented over the years.

I believe that my diverse background outside of the fancy can bring a much-needed dissimilar point of view to the table.

Zone 4 Nominee

Professional Career- elementary teacher with the Simcoe
County District School Board, since 1995, retired from full time
teaching, currently on the Occasional teachers list.

Dog club related
CKC member since 2004- 6 years as Zone 4A Junior handling
rep, hosted the 2012 Junior Nationals. Currently in 9ª year on
the Conformation Council.

Member of the Doberman Pinscher Club of Canada since 2004,
hosted the national specialty with obedience & rally trials in
2017 and 2022

Member of the Barrie Kennel & Obedience Club since 2004,
have held several executive positions, including secretary, show
chair, president and vice president. Have participated in
organizing health clearance clinics, handling classes, and
obedience classes.

Member of the Greater MidOntario Doberman Fanciers,
currently hold the position of President.
Volunteer at the Red Barn Event Centre, working as a team
member for hosting Sprinter trials, as well has helping at agility,
scent detention, obedience and rally trials.

Zone 5 Nominee

I have decided to let my name stand for re-election to the position of Director of the Canadian Kennel Club for Zone 5 – Ontario East. I believe I have the experience and knowledge to represent the CKC members in Eastern Ontario. My family and I have now lived for 28 years in the Northumberland Hills. Over those years I have had the pleasure of interacting with many of the CKC members and Clubs in Eastern Ontario.

I have served for the last 3 years as your CKC Zone Director. Half way through the term the Board of Directors appointed me to the role of Chair of the Board. In the past I have served 9 years as a CKC Board member with 6 years as Chairman of the Board.

Presently I’m Treasurer of 4 Clubs and a member of 2 Breed Clubs.  

My work experience includes 13 years working with teachers at various schools in the Toronto School Board, 13 years in accounting for a National Pharmaceutical company and for many years with my wife, Elaine, as a Professional Dog Handler and owner of a large boarding kennel.

I`m an All-Breed Conformation Judge, having judged internationally around the world.

I have the time, energy, knowledge & experience to serve the members of Eastern Ontario.

Zone 6 Nominee

My name is Peter Scott.

I was an all-breed Professional Handler for almost 40 years before retiring.
I have now begun the judging process, and am CKC licensed for 4 groups, on permit for a 5th.  I am also a UKC licensed judge.

I bred Maltese in the 1970s and 1980s.  Later, I bred Lakeland Terriers and Standard Poodles, and now, along with my wife, breed Dandie Dinmont Terriers and Brussels Griffon.

I was a founding member of the Toy Dog Club of Ontario in the mid 1980s.  I am currently a member and former Directore of the Non-Sporting Club of Ontario (Club VI).  I am also a life member of the CKC.

Among my clients are a number who are involved in running clubs, so I am familiar with the issues there.

I am also the current CKC Director for Zone 6.

Zone 6 Nominee

I have been a member of the Canadian Kennel Club for 51 years, breeding and exhibiting Dobermans and Cavaliers under the Ruler prefix. During that time, I have experienced our sport as a breeder, owner-handler, club executive, show organizer and All-Breed judge.
 
I serve on the executive of two successful all-breed clubs and the Judges Observation Committee. I have helped host more than 300 shows and, for over 30 years, have represented our sport and the CKC internationally as a judge.
 
Professionally, I spent my career in management, where customer service, budgets, goals and accountability were part of doing business.
 
Our sport faces real challenges. Membership and participation are declining, clubs are struggling with lower entries, breeders face a changing world, members are concerned about fees and lengthy processes. We cannot simply ask fewer people to pay more.
 
CKC needs to get moving again. We need to promote purebred dogs beyond our existing events, listen to our members, support our clubs and raise the profile of the Canadian Kennel Club.
 
I bring both business and dog experience to the table, along with a common-sense approach to problem solving.
 
I believe in purebred Dogs, I want to help this sport thrive again.

Zone 7 Nominee

Gordon is a respected executive, dedicated purebred dog enthusiast, and experienced breed club leader whose career reflects a commitment to excellence and integrity. As a Vice President in the food industry, he has extensive experience in governance, compliance, strategic planning, and team leadership, providing the skills and perspective necessary for effective board service.

Since joining CKC in 2014, Gordon is an active advocate for responsible dog ownership, breed preservation, and canine welfare. His commitment extends beyond the show ring through leadership and volunteer roles within breed clubs, where he has helped strengthen club operations, organize specialty events, promote education, and support membership growth.

Gordon understands the challenges facing clubs and exhibitors, including volunteer engagement, event sustainability, and attracting new participants to the sport. He believes strongly in the partnership between the CKC and its member clubs and recognizes their critical role in preserving all our wonderful dog breeds.

Known as a principled, approachable, and collaborative leader, Gordon is respected for his ability to build consensus, foster transparency, and promote thoughtful decision-making. His combination of executive leadership experience and involvement in the purebred dog community makes him a strong advocate for CKC members and the future of purebred dogs in Canada.

Zone 8 Nominee

I have bred German Shorthaired Pointers, Dachshunds and Labrador Retrievers under the Thomashenry Kennel name since 1980. Our kennel has produced the number one GSP, Labrador and Dachshund ML and has had many others place in the top five and in the top ten in group. We have had the Top Sporting dog & number three all breeds in South America as well as the first GSP to win the group at the World show in 1992.Our dogs have won BISS, BIS, as well as Earthdog, and WC titles. I also bred English Springer Spaniels and grew up with Irish Water Spaniels. I have judged National and Regional Specialties as well as all breeds in Canada, USA, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Iceland, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Chile, Colombia, Manila, China and Korea. I am licensed to judge all breeds in Canada.

Zone 9 Nominee

I am thrilled to be running and considered for Zone 9, Saskatchewan’s CKC Board of Directors.

I’ve lived every day of my life with a dog. I grew up with our family pets & foster pets alike. Through my junior years I competed in agility with our family dog. More recently my Doberman and I have been involved in a broad aspect of sports offered by the CKC: Scent, Rally, Sprinters & Chase, Agility and Conformation. I have gallivanted all across our vast country doing so and have met many wonderful dog fanciers alike. I enjoy volunteering and helping out from ring stewarding, to show superintendent and everywhere in between. I am a member of the Alberta Doberman Pinscher Club, and the Saskatoon Working and Herding Dog Association and currently hold a position on the Board of the Hub City Kennel and Obedience club. I thoroughly enjoy the variety of opportunities CKC offers its members.

I want to represent Saskatchewan on the Board of Directors as I feel I am Young, Fresh and bring a wide range of experience and skill to do so effectively. My focus is to be an approachable, positive representative for the members of Zone 9. I would love to have a part in continuing to help the CKC and its members develop and grow in a positive and inclusive direction.

My professional experience is well suited towards being a competent Zone Director. I have a genuine interest in law, bylaws, rules and regulations. I like to read the fine print to know the ins and outs of governing documents and legislation. I currently hold the position of Secretary on the Warman Housing Authority Board of Directors. I am a Detective Constable in the Homicide Unit of Saskatoon Police; a Commerce Student at the U of S and I am a multi business owner including my new fledgling Private off-leash Park & Dog Sports Facility.

Most importantly I feel all members of the CKC should be heard and have appropriate, competent, meaningful representation and I aim to provide exactly that.

Zone 10 Nominee

Dedicated canine community leader with more than 31
years of volunteer service and 45 years of customer
service experience. Accomplished breeder, owner-handler,
CKC representative, and breed club officer with proven
leadership, governance, and event management
experience. Committed to supporting CKC members, clubs,
and the future of purebred dogs in Canada.

Zone 11 Nominee

For the past six years, I have had the privilege of serving as your CKC Board member. I currently serve as Vice-Chair of the Board and sit on the Breed Standards Committee, ROE Committee and Obedience/Rally Council.

Dogs have been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I truly come from a “dog” family, my parents bred Afghans and Poodles, and today I continue to breed and exhibit Standard Poodles.

My late husband, Sandy Fletcher and I shared our love of dogs and the sport for more than 30 years. Sandy proudly served eight years on the CKC Board as Director for Zone 12.

Over 50 years as a breeder, owner and handler, I have bred multiple Best in Show, Specialty and Group winners in Canada and the US. I have also competed in Obedience, Rally, Sprinters, Nosework and Lure Coursing.

I have been actively involved with many clubs, helping organize shows and trials, teaching Conformation and Obedience classes, and promoting purebred dogs in our communities.

I am retired after 30 years in software development and training. I want to continue giving back to the sport that has given me so much.

I would be honoured to have your vote and to continue working for our clubs, members, exhibitors and, most importantly, our dogs.

My CKC and Dog Community Involvement
● Life Member, Tyee Kennel Club
● Past President, Kamloops Kennel Club
● Member, Poodle Club of Canada
● Librarian, Canadian Dog Judges Association
● Education Coordinator, Mid Island Judges Study Group for the Canadian Dog Judges Association 
● CKC Licensed All-Breed Judge

Zone 11 Nominee

Shawn Nichols has spent 44 years in purebred dogs as a breeder, professional handler, club executive, publisher, and international all-breed judge. He has bred several breeds, primarily Toy and Miniature Poodles under the Typecast prefix, and currently serves as President of the Canadian Dog Judges Association. Since becoming an all-breed judge in 2022, Shawn has judged in fifteen countries, including Westminster, Sydney Royal, and the Poodle Club of America National Specialty.

I believe that if you criticize the process, you must also be willing to become part of the solution. For me, that time is now.

I care deeply about this sport and the community that has kept so many of us here for decades. But its future cannot be taken for granted. Declining membership cannot be answered by asking fewer members to pay more. We need sustainable clubs and events, new revenue, stronger engagement, and new generations discovering why this community matters.

CKC must also build stronger relationships at home and internationally and be a powerful advocate for dogs.

We cannot keep putting difficult decisions off. Our challenges will not solve themselves. We must work together, challenge old assumptions, and make the decisions today that will keep our sport strong for generations to come.

Zone 12 Nominee

I became a member in 1974 and have served in Breed clubs and currently two All Breed Clubs. Furthermore, since 1990 I taught and organized at over 45 handling classes each year.

I have competed in Conformation, Obedience, Rally, and Tracking. My past experience and serving on the current term of the board has prepared me for another term of fast moving changes and remedies.

Since joining the board in January of 2024 I have been onsite for a variety of events, not just conformation. I represented the CKC members at Championship shows, Obedience Trials, Rally Trials, CGN, Tracking Tests, Retriever Trials, Scent Detection Trials, Herding Trials, and Agility Trials. I have traveled to events over most of the Zone: From Chilliwack to Prince George to Cranbrook and in between. I am the chair of the Tracking and Scent Detection Councils and the BC representative of the C.N.O.H.S. council as well as the Canadian National Dog Show council.

Many changes have been implemented this term, from New Titles in Companion events to the launching, January 1, 2027, of the C.N.O.H.S. which provides eligible owner-handlers with the opportunity to compete for national owner-handled rankings that are recognized as part of the C.K.C. Awards program. There is no cost to the exhibitor.

For those of you that know me I work hard for clubs, for members and for all dogs. I have demonstrated I work for positive change and am willing to discipline bad actors. I am in no ones or no clique’s “pocket,” as I am transparent in my dealings with members.

I have not been just a member, but a supporter of the C.K.C. over the past 5 decades. I am not the candidate who introduced and promoted another registry to hold events in Canada from the United States (2015 to 2019). I am dedicated to doing what is best for responsible Canadian Dog Breeders and owners in Canada via the Canadian Kennel Club. Please vote for experience and dedication!