Breeding Host Resources

Dr. McRae is a theriogenologist — a veterinarian who specializes in reproductive health — passionate about giving every Future Leader Dog the best possible start in life. After completing her training at the University of Sydney and The Ohio State University, Gail joined Leader Dog, where she loves working with such a unique and purpose-driven population of dogs. At home, she enjoys hiking, reading, and spending time with her husband, dog and two cats.

Alex has been part of the Leader Dog family since 2018 and moved into the breeding department in 2022. As a licensed veterinary technician, she focuses on the care of our breeding moms and dads, performs ultrasounds and radiographs, and supports our amazing host homes. Alex has a soft spot for her own four-legged crew—Rogue, Riley, Leia, and Ghost—and in her free time she enjoys adventures with her fiancé.

Sam joined Leader Dog in 2017 and brings a strong background in animal science and veterinary medicine. She oversees the health and well-being of our breeding colony, supports hosts, and performs everything from ultrasounds to whelping care. What she loves most is seeing the powerful bond that forms between people and their Leader Dogs. Away from work, Sam can often be found training her three German shepherds in canine sports or spending time with her husband.

Christina came to Leader Dog in 2021 after a career as a college professor—and a passion for helping dogs led her to the breeding team. She provides vital support to hosts, from sending health reminders to celebrating the arrival of new puppies. Christina especially enjoys the variety her role brings and the connections she makes with host families. At home, she shares life’s adventures with retired Leader Dog Zelda, career change dog Henry, and plenty of swimming and hiking.

Monica joined Leader Dog in 2019 and transitioned to the breeding department in 2023. With a background as a Guide Dog Mobility Instructor and certification in behavior assessments, she brings expertise in evaluating dogs and managing critical data for more than 450 dogs each year. Monica ensures we have the insights needed to make the strongest breeding decisions possible. Outside of work, she enjoys dance classes, high-performance driving events with her husband, and time with her German shepherd, Addie.

Bri has been with Leader Dogs for the Blind since 2016 but made the transition to breeding and puppy development in 2024. In her role, she supports our Leader Dog Mom and Dad host homes to provide the best beginnings for our neonatal Future Leader Dogs. She works closely to monitor and support the early development and socialization of our puppies. Additionally, she supports first-time whelping moms and host families, to ensure a smooth delivery process.

Bri studied dog body language in Animal Assisted Interventions at Oakland University and is a Certified Assessor of the Behavioral Checklist. She is also a Karen Pyror Academy – Certified Training Partner and Fear Free Certified Professional.

At home, Bri and her husband stay busy with their many children, animals and houseplants.