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Behind every breeding program, there is a story, a passion, and a dedicated person. Here, it's Marie-Andrée who brings her experience and love for Nordic dogs to her kennel. With over 15 years of learning, she has faced numerous challenges with patience and compassion, creating an environment where animal well-being is at the heart of everything. But her journey goes beyond breeding: a profound encounter with a real wolf deeply influenced her vision and connection with these fascinating animals. Discover what makes her kennel a unique place, full of respect, commitment, and passion.
The Story of
Mahìkan Atùm Tamaskan
My Encounter with the Wolf
I was in Nova Scotia, on August 15, 2007, near the small town of Amherst.
I just set up my camp for the night and the sunset painted the sky pink. Some tall grasses were dancing in the light breeze. The moon was getting higher, so beautiful, and reflected in the purple sea.
That was when he appeared before me, only 5 meters away. He was fixed in an elegant posture, his eyes right on mine. We communicated, silently. I felt sincerity and humility in our exchange.
We looked at each other, time had stopped for tis unforgettable moment. I was able to appreciate his beautiful grey fur, his tallness and his impressive stature, his head turned toward me with those stunning eyes of an indescribable color (mix of grey/green and yellow). He had some curiosity about me.
On a slight jump, he left. He followed his way on the trail of a prey, that he quickly caught.
From this moment, I wanted to keep this wolf alive in my heart. He came back in many dreams, to show me which way to go.
Without knowing him, I love and trust him.
A few years later, I adopted my first «little wolfy dog» from the regional shelter, Louna. The love story that I lived only in my memories began to become my new life.
Behind the breeding,
there is the breeder...
With over 15 years of experience with Nordic dogs, including rescues, I, Marie-Andrée, have always known how to navigate even the most challenging situations. I manage a family-style dog boarding service at my home, alongside my two precious companions. My core principles are observation, listening, and understanding.
When I first started in the canine world, my journey began with nothing less than a beaten and abandoned rescue dog, left alone outside at the end of her chain. Her only contact abilities were with cats! Rehabilitation of various traumas, building trust to communicate, and encouraging her to stay with me before I could educate her.
A similar, yet worse scenario came with my second rescue: famine, signs of abuse, multiple pregnancies, severe anxiety issues, extreme protectiveness... and pregnant. All this while I was just beginning the education phase with the first dog!
In the end, I concluded that it takes too much time and personal investment for beings that don’t have good enough genes to stay physically and/or mentally healthy, and be able to share a simple life with us for long (yes, she had her puppies—9, 8 of whom survived, but all of them died before 2 years old from severe hip dysplasia).
I proudly embrace my role as the "Auntie to Dogs." The one who takes her nephews and nieces for sled rides and teaches them to drive the little sled team. The one who shows them the language of the leash. The one who gets them into cani-cross or cani-hiking and educates them on proper care after an outing.
I am also the one who, upon meeting a curious young child with their parent, stops for a joyful moment filled with dog cuddles, treats, and shared happiness.
Older people greet us, asking us to come closer: it’s with immense pleasure that we sing them a little song or show them the small tricks that always bring laughter.
In my daily life, my dogs are my family, the children I was never able to have. I’m never alone in accomplishing my tasks, whether they are easy, like vacuuming, or difficult and long, like building a two-story doghouse with a special sun patio for Saya. Cooking becomes an activity. Mopping the floor is a "Stay" challenge. Making the bed is a cuddle challenge. In short, I give my best, I love laughing and living with them. Cuddles are a must as soon as I wake up. The respect for each other's space takes on a whole new meaning.
To help me grow and continually perfect my knowledge of canine behavior, I am guided by internationally renowned trainer Jean-Christian Champagne (see photo below) from the Canine Center of Mauricie!
Crédit photo : Centre Canin de la Mauricie
