Remembering Heidi Stucki, DVM: A Kangal Dog Ambassador and Advocate

We were greatly saddened to learn of the passing of one of the Kangal Dog’s greatest advocates: Heidi Stucki, DVM.

Much of Heidi’s most significant, in-the-trenches work on behalf of the Kangal Dog took place before my own direct involvement with the club. To better honor the depth of her contributions, I reached out to longtime KDCA President and current member Jan Dohner, who offered insight into Heidi’s historic role in supporting and protecting the breed.

From Jan:

“Heidi was a very resilient person who enjoyed her practice as a veterinarian and her farm where she worked to conserve the genetics of Spanish goats, wild mustangs, and Kangal Dogs. She became President of the KDCA at the time when we needed to repair our relationship with the UKC, which she did through personal visits and discussions with the UKC leadership. Her work led to our recognition as the national parent club for the breed and the important control we retained over single registration. Heidi’s interest in health issues, genetics, and rescue always motivated her efforts on behalf of the club.”

Heidi’s legacy is woven into the history of the Kangal Dog Club of America and into the continued preservation of the breed she cared for so deeply. Her work as a veterinarian, conservationist, breeder, rescuer, and club leader reflected a lifelong commitment to animals, sound stewardship, and the future of the Kangal Dog.

I have a number of friends who knew Heidi personally and called her a friend. To those who knew and loved her most, we offer our deepest condolences.

The KDCA remembers Heidi with deep gratitude for her leadership, dedication, and lasting contributions to the Kangal Dog.

Lisa Ingram Secretary/Treasurer of the KDCA