About Us
Preserving the Legacy of a First Domestic Dog
The New Guinea Singing Dog Conservation Society, is driven by a deep reverence for the New Guinea Singing Dog (NGSD) – an ancient early-domestic canine lineage that holds a unique place in the story of human-animal relationships. Our organization was founded on the belief that these remarkable animals deserve recognition, respect, and preservation. With a focus on scientific research, community engagement, and advocacy, we are committed to preserving the legacy of this original domestic dog lineage for future generations.
NGSDCS Board of Directors
PRESIDENT: Molly Sumridge MS, CDBC, C-AAIS, CPDT-KSA, CBATI-KSA
VICE PRESIDENT: Angie Kalea Ho (bio coming soon)
SECRETARY: Sophie Barton MA
TREASURER: Tracy Rehmel​
DIRECTORS AT LARGE: Shannon Hiltner
Our Mission
-
Conducting Scientific Research: We are dedicated to advancing the scientific understanding of NGSDs through rigorous research into genetics, health, behavior, and anthrozoological relationships.
-
Fostering Community: We strive to build a supportive community of NGSD owners, enthusiasts, and advocates, providing resources, guidance, and a platform for connection.
-
Advocacy, Awareness, and Collaboration: We advocate for policies and practices that recognize the cultural and ecological significance of NGSDs, promote responsible ownership practices, and combat misinformation and welfare compromising legislature.
​
Our Vision
Our vision is a world where NGSDs are celebrated as living relics of our shared human history, revered for their heritage, resilience, intelligence, and companionship. We envision a future where NGSDs thrive in their homelands and enrich the lives of humans as cherished companions.
Our Legacy
Janice Koler-Matznick, MS, ACAAB founded the New Guinea Singing Dog Conservation Society (NGSDCS) in 1993, working to establish it as a 501c3 non-profit in 1995. Her formal education concentrated in organismic biology and animal behavior. Janice had extensive hands-on experience with canids, as a trainer, breeder, exhibitor, and associate certified animal behaviorist. In 1995, she began to maintain the Singer stud book, started by I. Lehr Brisbin, Ph.D. She wrote extensively about New Guinea Singing Dogs with a book and other publications to her credit.​
​
For twenty years, Janice has corresponded with citizens of Papua New Guinea trying to work toward protection for the Singers. As far as the future of our beloved dogs are concerned, Janice said: “There is so much more to learn about the Singers. I know there are scores of pet Singer owners in North America and my hope is they will cooperate with the Society to secure the future of these remarkable dogs by participating in information gathering and donating to research.”​
Our Mission
-
Conducting Scientific Research: We are dedicated to advancing the scientific understanding of NGSDs through rigorous research into genetics, health, behavior, and anthrozoological relationships.
-
Fostering Community: We strive to build a supportive community of NGSD owners, enthusiasts, and advocates, providing resources, guidance, and a platform for connection.
-
Advocacy, Awareness, and Collaboration: We advocate for policies and practices that recognize the cultural and ecological significance of NGSDs, promote responsible ownership practices, and combat misinformation and welfare compromising legislature.
​
Join Our Work
Whether you're passionate about NGSD conservation, a proud owner of one of these extraordinary animals, or simply curious to learn more, we invite you to join us in our mission. Together, we can make a meaningful impact and ensure a brighter future for the original domestic dog lineage. Thank you for your support.