Today we’d like to introduce you to Kaylani Judkins.
Hi Kaylani, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I love animal science and genetics, and I find the history of dogs so interesting. Humans have played a part in creating all these different breeds with unique traits, and characteristics that allow them to help their human companions in so many diverse ways. Dogs have walked alongside us through the evolution of time, and our lives would not be the same without them. The idea that I wanted to be part of that history came while I was working as a Vet Assistant at a local Animal Hospital.
Over the time that I worked there, I began to see the huge impact genetics and breeding made on the animal’s quality of life. The hospital I worked at did health care for a local foster program, and we saw some dogs in pretty bad shape that came from puppy mills or backyard breeders. It was incredible the list of physical and mental health issues that they would have, most of them being genetic diseases that could have been prevented. I saw people pouring THOUSANDS of dollars into their dogs that were dealing with structural diseases like hip dysplasia, or dealing with skin allergies to tummy sensitivities, and temperament issues like hyperactivity. It all stemmed from their breeding and genetics. That hit the heart knowing that these animals’ lives could have been entirely different had there been care put into their creation.
I just became passionate about it, I wanted to be part of improving and preserving a breed and my opportunity arose when I had kids of my own. I knew I wanted to be a mother and stay at home to raise my children, but still, continue a career in animal care that wouldn’t take away from my family life. so we started the NK Ranch Australian Shepherd breeding program.
We love the versatility of the Australian Shepherd and the amazing qualities they have to offer as a dog. Our goal as a breeder is to work towards producing genetically healthy, sound dogs as well as preserving this beautiful and unique breed. We also work on educating about the breed and quality of life pet care. We have been blessed to be part of a community and mentored by reputable breeders who’ve helped us figure out genetics, health testing, raising healthy dogs and puppies, and everything else that comes with it, and we’ve incorporated what we’ve learned from them into our program.
We’ve had the opportunity to give back to our community through volunteer work with our dogs, and donating a percentage of the adoption fee of our puppies to charities such as Operation Underground Railroad, which is a foundation that helps rescue trafficked children and adults from all over the world. We’ve also raised puppies who grow up to become certified service dogs, one of which currently helps an amazing woman dealing with MS by picking up fallen items like pill bottles and retrieving her cane for her. These amazing dogs get to spend their life in a unique and fulfilling role that enriches the lives of those around them.
My children have also benefited greatly, as they’ve been involved in the process of raising these puppies. They’re learning the importance of life and the life cycles, compassion for creatures, that animal husbandry isn’t just about cuddles and cuteness (though we fully embrace that part), but all the un-glamorous jobs, and making sure they’re fed and looked after coming rain or shine. I love who my children are becoming through the experience of raising animals.
I’m now 6 years into raising dogs as my job. I’ve been able to continue being a stay-at-home mom and we’ve recently moved to a farming community where we are building our little farm to raise our livestock and produce. I’m currently going to school for my Agribusiness certificate and hope to join the Horticulture program at Utah State University.
I plan to continue raising dogs and improve our breeding program as we progress. It’s a continual learning process, which I love. There’s never a dull moment in this profession!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I think whatever big thing you do in your life, it’s not going to be an easy road. Raising dogs is no different. There’s a stigma around being a dog breeder, and there are some pretty big opinions on the subject, so navigating through that can be pretty tough. However, I believe in using that negativity as motivation to become better at what I do and using my platform to share my experiences and educate about the importance of reputable breeding. I’ve also learned that doing anything the right way creates integrity in your business that others see and respect. I love being open about why I breed, and what I’m doing in my program to be a reputable breeder.
It also takes humility sometimes to realize your goals take time. Being a mom is my number one job and that’s how I want it. Managing time for dogs, passions, school, family life, you name it, can be extremely demanding. I’ll admit it’s one of my biggest hurdles being able to allow myself grace when I’m not where I want to be, or that I’m not doing enough in that time frame. It can be more of a mental battle with yourself than anything.
However, I’ve been able to prove to myself through perseverance that it’s working through problems and processes with patience (and A LOT of support from my husband to keep going) that I’m able to improve and do better than the year before. Progress is in the perspective and I’ve learned to appreciate how far I’ve come and just to enjoy the road I’m chugging along on.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about NK Ranch Australian Shepherds?
We are preservation breeders, meaning we only breed purebred Australian Shepherds. As preservation breeders, we are breeding for specific traits unique to the breed that preserve those fantastic qualities. We choose our dogs from genetically healthy lines and we health test all of our dogs.
We are a small breeding program and we are selective about who our puppies go home to. We will ALWAYS, always, always take our puppies back if a family can no longer care for them. We have a responsibility for the life we bring into this world and we take that responsibility seriously. We’re here for our dogs for life!
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I think communication is key. Taking an interest in our puppy families, asking questions, and finding out what they are looking for in a companion pet. Being open and honest about our program.
We focus on making connections and creating bonds, and finding the right match both for the puppy and the family. We retain great relationships with our puppy families and care deeply about the well-being of our puppies throughout their lives. I believe our success and reputation are based heavily on that.
Contact Info:
- Website: nkranchaussies.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nkranchaussies/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nkranchaustralianshepherds
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@nkranchaussies
Image Credits
Kaylani Judkins and Ashley Hillam Young
