My name is Dodie Johnson, and I am a breeder of Persian and Exotic Shorthairs. My love of Persians began when I was a little girl. In 2011, I began working with shelters and rescues to rehabilitate and care for Persians and Zots who were improperly bred and full of health concerns. I hated seeing those beautiful babies suffer through illness and injury that can be avoided through specificity in breeding. Thus, the MyWish Cattery was born in 2016. My dream is to bring the love I have for Persians and Exotics to every family I meet. All of my breeding females and males are genetically tested for common health issues in Persians, such as PKD, and I emphasize large, open nostrils for easy breathing. I will continue to work hard for healthy and happy cats.

Qualifications:
- MyWish is proud to hold titles Lifetime Achievement Winner, Breed Winner, International Winner, Regional Winner, and Supreme Grand Champion through TICA
- Voted into TICA’s Persian/Exotic/Himalayan Breed group committee in 2024
- TICA MidPacific Region’s Member of the Year 3 years in a row: 2022, 2023, 2024

Amanda is a dedicated and passionate breeder who specializes in breeding Gorgeous European Maine Coon Cats, known for their striking appearance and friendly demeanor. She embarked on her breeding journey in 2018, driven by her love for this majestic breed and a desire to share their beauty with others. Over the years, Amanda has cultivated numerous meaningful connections within the cat breeding community, establishing a solid network of fellow breeders, enthusiasts, and pet owners who appreciate the unique qualities of Maine Coons.

In addition to her breeding efforts, Amanda has devoted herself to supporting and guiding several new breeders entering the field. As a Teacher, Friend, and Mentor, she shares her extensive knowledge and experience, helping others navigate the complexities of responsible breeding practices. Amanda takes great pride in fostering a sense of community among breeders, encouraging collaboration and the exchange of ideas. Through her dedication, she not only enhances the quality of breeding practices but also nurtures friendships that last a lifetime. Her commitment to the Maine Coon breed and her mentorship roles contribute significantly to the growth and enrichment of the breeding community.

My name is Calla Horn, and I’m a proud Canadian Sphynx breeder currently residing in Mobile, AL. My journey into the world of breeding has been shaped by a diverse background and a strong passion for animals that has guided my life choices.

After graduating high school, I pursued a Bachelor of Science in Human Services, during which I engaged in a variety of roles that allowed me to support and uplift others. My experience included working with individuals affected by Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse (AODA), serving as a counselor, taking on management responsibilities, and participating in crisis intervention efforts. While I found fulfillment in these roles, I realized that my true passion lay in the company of animals.

The turning point came when I became the owner of my first Sphynx cat. The moment I laid eyes on this unique and affectionate breed, I was captivated. The Sphynx’s playful nature and loving personality stole my heart completely, igniting a desire not only to share the joy that these remarkable cats bring but also to contribute to the preservation of the breed. The Sphynx is more than just a pet; they are a source of companionship and joy that I want to share with others.

As a stay-at-home mom, I have the privilege of spending my days surrounded by my two wonderful children, ages three and seven, as well as my beloved cats. Balancing motherhood and breeding has been a rewarding experience, and I cherish the moments when my children interact with our furry family members. It’s a joy to teach them about responsibility, empathy, and the special bond we share with animals.

I am committed to being an active member of this board and working collaboratively to achieve the goals and visions of the Veterinary Breeders' Association (VBD). It’s an honor to be part of a community that prioritizes the health and welfare of our animals while promoting responsible breeding practices. I am genuinely thankful for this opportunity and look forward to contributing to our shared mission, fostering a love for the Sphynx breed, and connecting with fellow breeders and enthusiasts alike. 🐱♥️

Hello! My name is Annie, and I couldn't be more thrilled to share a little about myself and my journey. I have had the incredible fortune of knowing Valerie for my entire life; she’s not just a friend, but my built-in best friend and big sister. I have watched her navigate her college career with unwavering determination, all while embracing the challenges of motherhood. I remember how she began her studies as a single mother, juggling responsibilities with an infant in her arms. A few years later, she accomplished the remarkable feat of finishing her degree while managing life with a two-year-old.

My passion for animals ignited when I landed my first job at a veterinary clinic at the age of 15. That experience solidified my love for all things related to animals. I quickly earned the nickname “cat whisperer” due to my knack for handling even the most difficult stray cats. I reveled in the opportunity to take home and care for bottle-fed puppies and kittens, relishing the chance to nurture those vulnerable creatures.

Since my first position, my career in veterinary medicine has blossomed. I’ve had the privilege of working in three different clinics, collaborating with eight talented veterinarians who range from seasoned professionals with 40 years of experience to recent graduates fresh out of vet school. Each experience has helped to deepen my understanding of animal care and veterinary practices, and I cherish the skills I've gained along the way.

Currently, I am a stay-at-home mom to my adorable four-month-old son, Robbie. As I embrace motherhood, I am also eagerly awaiting my husband’s return from deployment. Our plan is to move back to California, where I will resume my career in a veterinary clinic once we’re settled.

As of now, I don’t have a cat at home (I know, it’s practically blasphemy for a cat lover like me!), but I do have a year-and-a-half-old German Shepherd mix who keeps me on my toes and fills our home with joy. However, after seeing all the delightful cats and kittens around, I’m starting to think it might be time to bring a new feline friend into our family!

Despite the challenges, I am absolutely thrilled to be a part of this amazing adventure and can’t wait to see what the future holds for this platform! It’s going to be an exciting journey, and I can't wait!

I’m Carol Jaquez.
Right out of college I started my career at IBM. My entire career was in Human Resources. I loved my time at IBM. I retired early after 25 years, and decided I’m not a sit on the couch and watch tv person. So I volunteered at the local animal shelter to be a foster mom. I would take all the small kittens and pregnant mommies they didn’t have room for. I enjoyed doing that , but always had to return the kittens at 7 weeks old so they could be spayed/neutered and adopted out at 8 weeks. It broke my heart many times, to return them so young and know they were taken away from mommy. I also had no part in picking their adopters. So my Husband suggested I become a breeder, so I could make those decisions. So here I am, a Ragdoll Breeder for the last 23 years. I absolutely love what I do.
Dodie and I know each other very well from filming the show Going Fur Gold. That was a lot of fun!! Dodie recommended me to Valerie. And after a wonderful conversation with Valerie, I am all in. Happy to help, bring the VBD, to be very successful!!! Looking forward to working with you all!!!

Hi! I’m Kassandra, and I’m excited to share a bit about myself! I joined the Army when I was just 18 years old. During my time on active duty, I had the opportunity to travel to many different parts of the world, experiencing both the good and challenging aspects of life in various places. One of the best things that came out of my military service was meeting my amazing husband, Kevin, who serves in the Air Force.

I recently transitioned out of the military due to an injury, and I find myself navigating this new civilian life. To help with the adjustment, I've welcomed two adorable emotional support cats into my home—they truly bring me joy.

In addition to my family life, I run a super small cattery right in my house. I currently have one male and four females, and they are just incredible companions. They bring me so much happiness and entertainment!

Fitness is another huge passion of mine, as I am a competitive bodybuilder. I also enjoy building race cars, and I often find myself diving into various activities that are typically male-dominated. I like to think I can hold my own and even excel in these areas—just a little friendly competition! 😂😂

Kidding aside, I’m still figuring out what I want to be when I grow up. However, my cattery is proving to be quite successful, and I feel like I’m on the right path. I’m thrilled to be part of this community, learning and growing alongside all of you. Here’s to finding our way together! ❤️

Hello! My name is Amanda, and I have a deep passion for animals, particularly horses. My educational background includes specialized training in Equine Podiatry and Equine Science, allowing me to develop a strong understanding of horse care and management from the ground up.

For two years, I worked at an emergency equine veterinary clinic, where I gained invaluable experience handling urgent situations and providing critical care to horses in need. This role not only honed my skills but also deepened my appreciation for the veterinary field and the importance of animal health.

As a farrier, I get to work closely with horses to ensure their hoof health, which is crucial for their overall well-being and performance. It’s a profession that requires not only skills in hoof care but also a deep understanding of equine anatomy and behavior.

In my personal life, I’m a proud owner of an amazing horse, a loving kitty, and an adorable corgi. Each of my pets brings a unique joy into my life, and I cherish the special moments we share together. My horse provides me with the thrill of riding and companionship, my kitty offers a playful and comforting presence, and my corgi is a constant source of laughter and affection.

One of the highlights of my journey has been forming a close bond with Valerie. From the moment we met, it felt as though we were long-lost sisters. Our connection is incredibly strong, and we quickly found that our personalities and interests mesh beautifully. It’s wonderful to have someone who shares a similar passion for animals and understands the unique challenges and joys that come with the equine world. 😊

I look forward to continuing my journey in the animal care field, building further connections, and sharing my experiences with like-minded individuals. Whether it's through my work, my love for my pets, or my friendships, I am excited about the future and all the adventures it holds! I play a neutral part in this adventure. I hope to bring a balance for the cat world as a fact driven neutral party.

My name is Valerie, and I am excited to introduce myself as the CEO and a member of the vibrant world of Maine Coon cats. Having recently stepped into this industry, I have experienced firsthand the challenges and triumphs that come with being an emerging breeder. My primary aim is to help fellow breeders get off to the best start possible, addressing the common issues we face in the industry and fostering an environment that promotes ethical and responsible breeding practices.

As a Maine Coon breeder, my love for these magnificent cats is profound. Their striking appearance, playful personalities, and affectionate nature have captivated me from the very beginning. I believe it is vital to showcase my cats to the world, not just for their beauty but to celebrate the incredible bond we share with them. I am passionate about sharing this love and appreciation for all cats, regardless of their breed, and I hope to create a welcoming community where all cat lovers can connect and thrive together.

In addition to my breeding endeavors, I bring a valuable background in the veterinary field to my work. I have had the privilege of working under several veterinarians and have gained experience at three different animal hospitals. This experience has equipped me with a solid understanding of feline health and wellness, allowing me to provide the best care for my cats and help guide other breeders with locating sources to help educate us all. Education is important. We never stop learning!

With a commitment to education, collaboration, and the well-being of all our beloved pets, I am eager to contribute to the cat breeding community. I hope to inspire others and create a supportive network where breeders can share their experiences, challenges, and successes, ultimately enhancing the lives of our feline companions and the joy they bring us.