​​​​​​​Ms. Valerie Hamilton

MS. VALERIE HAMILTON of Brush Prairie, Washington, is a second-generation dog person whose family began in the sport in 1964 with Borzois. A few years later, they had a group winning Borzoi (one of the nation's top-ten Borzoi) and established the kennel name of Khiva. Mrs. Hamilton’s parents purchased a Whippet for her in 1971 so that she could participate in Junior Showmanship. This Whippet became the foundation of Khiva's Best in Show line of Whippets. 

Having always admired the beauty of the Salukis, Khiva purchased their first Saluki in 1975.  The accomplishments include multiple Best in Show wins, numerous Specialty Best in Show wins, coursing, obedience, and Canine Good Citizen titles.  Furthermore, she successfully owner-handled the number-one-ranked Saluki in America for three years in a row (2002, 2003, and 2004).  

Mrs. Hamilton obtained her judging license in 1995. She has judged internationally, including in Sweden, France, Germany, Australia, and Poland. Mrs. Hamilton is approved to judge several Hound breeds and Junior Showmanship. This is her first assignment at Westminster.