Kathleen Hamaker has been breeding Brittany's for 34 years. In 1987, she became involved in
showing Brittany's and her kennel name, "KaLa", evolved. In 2000, the focus shifted to a newly
recognized breed in AKC, the Spinone Italiano.  Her first Spinone, Ch. Naplands Isabella Di KaLa,
quickly finished her show championship, and has produced 11 show Champions, with more poised to
finish. Two of her progeny were Winners Bitch at the National Shows in consecutive years,
2003,2004.  In 2006, Ch. KaLa's Rubeus Hagrid, CD, JH won an Award of Merit at the Nationals and
was also High in Obedience Trial. Also, in 2006, Ch. KaLa's Caramel Carmella, bred, co-owned and
handled by Kathy, won Best of Breed at Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.  

With the help of her friends, Tom and Nancy Gallant, Kathy began training dogs in obedience in the
late 1980's. Adopting their technique of voice control, with no pinch,  prong or shock collars,  she
took over the local class with Community Education at Marshall Public Schools upon the death of
Tom. This led to teaching at her daughters training center, Happy Tails, when the school was
opened.  Kathy is also an assistant leader for the Calhoun County 4H Dog group, the Companion
Club. This club, under the guidance of her daughter Kassie, has grown from 5 members to over 70,
with 5 leaders.

Kathy relishes her work with children and adults, teaching them what she has learned over the years
and what she has learned from her mentors. She reads extensively, and constantly strives to improve
her teaching techniques. Combining her love of family, people, and dogs in her efforts, brings her
much joy.