The Developers

The people behind the creation of IWDR

IWDR embodies the practical knowledge from a collective 78 years of managing large breeding colonies for working dogs, 75 years of computer programming expertise and creation of four databases for working dog programs, and cutting-edge sales and marketing software.  Data storage was engineered to provide users with consistently recorded data that provides meaningful summaries for making informed decisions.  Over 55 years of Animal Breeding experience in selecting genetically superior replacement breeders enables IWDR users to use Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) that previously were restricted to only the larger canine breeding programs with this expertise.

kevin_no_malco

Kevin Keymer, BS

eldin_leighton

Eldin Leighton, PhD

jane_russenberger

Jane Russenberger, BS

samuel_leighton

Samuel Leighton

Eldin Leighton

Founder
PHD

Jane Russenberger

Founder
BS

Samuel Leighton

Web Developer/Designer

Kevin Keymer

Genius, Hard Worker, Friend
Remembering kevin
BS

The DEVELOPERS

IWDR embodies the practical knowledge from a collective 78 years of managing large breeding colonies for working dogs, 75 years of computer programming expertise and creation of four databases for working dog programs, and cutting-edge sales and marketing software.  Data storage was engineered to provide users with consistently recorded data that provides meaningful summaries for making informed decisions.  Over 55 years of Animal Breeding experience in selecting genetically superior replacement breeders enables IWDR users to use Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) that previously were restricted to only the larger canine breeding programs with this expertise.

Eldin Leighton, PHD

Jane Russenberger, BS

Samuel Leighton

Kevin grew up in Minneapolis and Hopkins MN

He graduated from Control Data Institute, and the University of Minnesota Institute of Technology where he earned a B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering. Kevin had a lifelong career at Malco Products, starting in the Tool-and-Die Department and Manufacturing Engineering. In the mid-1970’s he wrote cutting-edge sales and marketing software, allowing the company to increase its leadership and dominance in its field. Kevin possessed a unique technical genius—there was virtually no mechanical, automotive, electrical, electronic, or digital device that he could not understand or troubleshoot. As a faithful Catholic, he combined his beliefs and his God-given talents in a life of generously and tirelessly helping others—often by repairing or building things. From 1993-2018, Kevin donated his time writing software, first Reldog for Guiding Eyes for the Blind in New York, then Reldog Lite for organizations globally followed by the International Working Dog Registry. This database for working dog organizations around the world enables breeding healthier and more confident dogs and is advancing the field of canine genetics, especially for working dogs. Sadly, Kevin died in August 2018, leaving behind a legacy of wonderfully crafted software.

Keving_keymer

Helping Hands

Denise M Barber in 2006 opened K-9 Connection LLC in Olean NY.  Being a GEB puppy raiser since 1994 she had an interest in broadening her knowledge and understanding of canine behaviors. She pursued many seminars, authors and training experiences to develop her skills. Ultimately, resulting in training people how to identify and solve dog behavioral issues within their homes, and out and about in the community. Her business includes a facility that was built on the idea of boarding dogs in a home setting with indoor recreation/class training, so that clients could train no matter what the weather. That became a reality in 2011 when she built her home around her business. She now live with the dogs too. Each day is a continuously changing environment (sitting dogs come and go, private lessons, group classes, friends, family) all intersect through these four walls. Understanding the behaviors, and guiding comfortable positive safe interactions between all dogs on site is possible because of guidance, and education from her many mentors along the way. She welcomes the opportunity to help continue the education process for those seeking to hone their skills to helping dogs, and people work/live better together.
denise_barber

Helping Hands

People and Organizations who have our greatest gratitude for their contributions to IWDR

BEHAVIOR CHECKLIST & BEHAVIOR TEST VIDEO PRODUCTION 2018 – CURRENT
Guiding Eyes for the Blind

Use of Reldog file structure and concepts 2014

Chikako Keymer

Japanese & French Translations 2015 – current

Paul Keymer & Minnesota Guide Dog Breeding Center

Funding support and coaching 1992 – current

Maintains IWDR’s Diagnosis List 2016 – current

Ginnie Pastor

Vision for IWDR and early design input 2007

Marina Hall Phillips

IWDR Beta testing and early user design input 2015

Helen West

GDBart Protocol Videos 2019