Sioux Empire Kennel Club
Valerie Nunes-Atkinson Handling Seminar
Join nationally recognized professional handler and breeder Valerie Nunes-Atkinson for an intensive two-day handling seminar designed for handlers and dogs of all experience levels.
Seminar Schedule
The Handling Seminar is a two-day program. Check-in will take place from 8:00–9:00 a.m. each day, with instruction beginning promptly at 9:00 a.m. Sessions will conclude approximately 4:00–5:00 p.m., with scheduled breaks and a one-hour lunch provided.
To ensure both handlers and dogs receive adequate rest and individual attention, participants will be divided into two groups. Please bring a crate and chair, as dogs and handlers will rotate in and out of the ring throughout the day while remaining actively engaged in the learning process.
What You'll Learn
This seminar covers a wide range of topics, from foundational handling skills to advanced presentation techniques. Instruction is tailored to the experience level and goals of each participant and their dog, making it valuable for newcomers and seasoned exhibitors alike.
Working Spots & Auditing
Working spots require attendance on both days with the same dog, as the training progresses throughout the seminar and builds on concepts introduced each day.
Auditors are welcome and may attend one day or both days.
Registration & Payment
Working spot fees may be paid in full at registration or in two installments. A nonrefundable deposit equal to half of the registration fee is required to reserve a working spot.
Full payment must be received by August 15.
Seminar Policy
Video recording of any kind, whether public or private, is not permitted.
Registration opens June 15th. Registration link: CLICK HERE.
About Valerie Nunes-Atkinson
Valerie Nunes-Atkinson has devoted her life to her passion for dogs and horses. Raised among German Shorthaired Pointers and cutting horses bred by her father, her dedication to animals began at an early age.
After earning a degree in Journalism from South Dakota State University, Valerie transformed her passion into a highly successful career as a breeder of German Shorthaired Pointers and Whippets, as well as an all-breed professional handler.
Through exceptional conditioning, training, and presentation, Valerie has guided countless dogs to top honors, including numerous #1 breed and group rankings, National Specialty victories, more than 150 Best in Show wins, and multiple victories at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.
Her Westminster accomplishments include winning the Sporting Group three times with CJ, Carlee, and Jade, as well as winning the Hound Group with Lucy. Valerie was an owner of Carlee, the 2005 Westminster Best in Show winner, and was the breeder, owner, and handler of her beloved CJ, the 2016 Westminster Best in Show winner.
Valerie's achievements have earned recognition throughout the sport. She was voted Handler of the Year by her peers in 2013 and was honored as Breeder of the Year by both the American Kennel Club and the Santa Barbara Kennel Club for her accomplishments breeding German Shorthaired Pointers under the VJK-MYST prefix alongside co-breeder Yvonne Hassler-Deterding.