Return to the Airedale Terrier Club of Canada (ATCC) home page.
About the Airedale Terrier Club of Canada (ATCC) About the Airedale Terrier ATCC News and Events Support the ATCC Photo Gallery Learn More About ... Contact the ATCC
Overview of the Airedale Terrier Club of Canada (ATCC)
ATCC Executive Council
ATCC Constitution and Bylaws
ATCC Policies and Procedures
ATCC Awards and Trophies
ATCC Membership
ATCC Committees
ATCC Jobs
ATCC Resources
Contact Us

Airedale Terrier Club of Canada (ATCC)
Executive Council

Debbie Klemp
Treasurer

Return to ATCC Executive Council page.

Debbie Klemp, photo by John Ross

Debbie Klemp
Photo by John Ross

It seems like only yesterday that I brought my first Airedale puppy home, 25 years ago. He was my first dog, and I often wonder whether I would have sold me a puppy, if I was the breeder, but happily she did and they have been a big part of my life ever since. I had no thoughts of conformation or breeding until about 14 years ago, even though I had always been attracted to the “show” Airedale look. We put a CD title on our next Airedale, Storm. He was even on TV as part of a series on dog training. Storm lived to the ripe old age of 15, and it was through him that I met Elaine and Saul, who encouraged us to exhibit in conformation, and so we added a CH title to the front of Storm’s name.

In 2002, I married a very special guy, Bill, whose first introduction to my dogs included having the puppy eat the inside out of his brand new running shoes! In spite of that, he stuck around, and is now a true Airedaler, who takes an active role in everything from fielding phone calls, interviewing puppy people, and raising the puppies.

We currently have four girls that share their house with us: Porsche, my foundation bitch, is 11½ and still rules the roost around here. My Porsche gave birth to a Beemer (she’s the one that ate the running shoe) and a Carrera, who gave us our youngest girl, Tessa.

I enjoy working with my dogs and have exhibited in conformation and obedience in both Canada and the U.S. While breeding dogs certainly has its challenges, the big reward for me is the puppies themselves. I love the little puppies and could sit for hours watching them grow and change so quickly. In no time they’re walking and playing with each other, exploring the world around them …and always learning. With each litter, I find something new to marvel at, and then before I know it, they’re ready to go to their new homes, even though I’m hardly ever ready to let them go!

I continue to be an active member of the local kennel club here in Burlington, as well as the Airedale Terrier Club of America, and the Terrier Breeders Association of Canada. My life as treasurer began shortly after I joined the ATCC. At the time, they were looking for a new treasurer and I was asked if I would be interested in filling the two-year term of office. Well, two years didn’t seem like too long, so I said sure … it would be a good way to get involved with the club and meet new people … so … several 2 year terms later … I’m still doing the treasurer thing … but I was right on about a couple of things! I certainly have been involved – in all kinds of club activities and events, but the best part is that I’ve met so many fun and interesting people through Airedales, in several countries, and have made some very good and lasting friendships along the way!

I really encourage all our members to get involved with the club, to volunteer. The rewards are many, and the friendships can last a lifetime!

Return to ATCC Executive Council page.

 

What's New | About the ATCC | About the Airedale Terrier | News and Events
Support the ATCC | Gallery | Learn More About … | Contact Us | Home
Photo Credits | Legal/Disclaimers | Privacy | Site Map

Questions? E-mail info@airedaleterrier.ca
Copyright ©2010 Airedale Terrier Club of Canada