Jessica Allen: Advocate for New Dog Fanciers

Born and raised in Southeastern Massachusetts, Jessica Allen was the little girl who took in stray animals and nursed them back to health.  She worked at a local stable in exchange for riding lessons and was active in 4-H and Future Farmers of America (FFA).  Jessica’s activities revolved around showing horses, cows, sheep and rabbits, and serving as a judge on FFA’s meat and cattle Judging Team.  She was a student member of her high school’s Animal Science Advisory Committee and a long-time volunteer at the local animal shelter, where she helped care for abandoned pets and farm animals, as well as occasional wildlife. 

Professionally, she works in military strategic and tactical analysis and has done so for 11 years.  On her own time, however, she goes to the dogs.  Jessica has shown dogs in the conformation, rally and obedience rings since 2004.

When asked, Jessica describes herself as “just a country girl” who loves working outdoors, feeling the warm sun on her face and a gentle breeze cooling the air.  She and her husband, Daniel, share their lives and Kansas home with several animals—some furry and some feathered.  Her plans for the future are simple:  Continue to learn, continue to travel and continue to grow. 

In this spirit, she begins a journey, setting out to learn more about every aspect of the sport of the purebred dogs and the importance of raising and training the companion dog.  Through her articles, she invites us to learn and grow along with her.