Meet The Team
Dr David Hughes MRCVS - Veterinary Surgeon
As well as being a keen showing competitor in the canine industry, Dave has a passion for breeding high quality dogs and preserving vulnerable breeds for the future through semen freezing.
Working in reproduction has always been a life long dream for Dave and Elite Kennel Fertility are excited to have him on board.
Contact Dave: dave@elitekennelfertility.com
Diana Baker BVMS (Hons) BSc (Hons) MRCVS - Locum Veterinary Surgeon
Di is our locum Vet. She graduated as a Vet in 1998 from Glasgow University and also has a degree in Animal Science from Nottingham University, her dissertation was published in the Journal of Reproduction.
She decided she wanted to be a vet when she was 4 and still believes it is the best job in the world.
She has worked with many species from mice to moose but the majority of her work so far has been with cattle and dogs. Reproduction has always been at the core of her career.
In 2002 she founded her own practice and in 2007 won Young business person of the year in the Cheshire Business awards. She appeared on Countryfile (many years ago!) with the first calves born from sexed semen.
Like Dave she has always had a particular interest in vulnerable native breeds, having previously owned Gordon Setters for 35 years (she took 2 Gordons to University with her) and recently having acquired a Field Spaniel.
Contact Di: di@elitekennelfertility.com
Anna Hamblin RVN – Business Operations & Development Manager
Formerly working as a registered veterinary nurse she is now the Operations Manager for Elite Kennel Fertility. Her passion for working gundogs and her understanding of animal health and welfare mirrors our ethos of the business.
She has over 9 years’ experience working in various animal health and welfare roles which fuels her passion for ethical breeding from canines fit for purpose.
Contact Anna: anna@elitekennelfertility.com
Georgi Connew RVN - Registered Veterinary Nurse
With 7 years of experience in veterinary nursing, Georgi brings a wealth of knowledge and genuine passion for animal care to the Elite Kennel Fertility team. Her journey in veterinary medicine has given her extensive experience across various aspects of animal health and welfare.
Georgi's love for animals extends beyond her professional life - she's the proud owner of a lovely crossbreed who she rescued during her time working in general practice. This personal experience with rescue animals reflects her compassionate approach to animal care and her understanding of the special bond between owners and their pets.
When she's not caring for our canine patients, Georgi indulges her passion for horses, working part-time with the SAI team on the yard. This diverse animal experience enhances her ability to understand and care for animals of all kinds.
Georgi has a passion for in-patient care and her genuine love for chatting with breeders about their dogs' individual needs. She understands that every dog is unique, and she takes the time to ensure both pets and their owners feel comfortable and well-informed throughout their fertility journey.
Contact Georgi: vetnurse@elitekennelfertility.com
Hannah Gill BSc (Hons) MSc Vet Phys - Practice Manager
Hannah graduated from Harper Adams University gaining BSc (Hons) Animal Health and Welfare in 2018, and thereafter completed a MSc Veterinary Physiotherapy degree; qualifying in 2021. Hannah has a keen interest in canine reproduction; particularly surrounding our vulnerable native breeds. She regularly shows her Lakeland Terrier as well as competing in other canine sports such as dog agility and canine hoopers.
Contact Hannah: office@elitekennelfertility.com
Andrew Bell – Veterinary Biosciences (BSc Hons)
Andrew joined the Elite Kennel Fertility team in 2024 as a valued member of our laboratory staff. Having nearly completed his BSc (Hons) in Veterinary Bioscience at Harper Adams University, Andrew brings both academic knowledge and practical experience to our specialised canine fertility services after completeing his industry placement with us.
With a genuine passion for animal health and extensive knowledge in canine fertility, Andrew plays a crucial role in our laboratory operations while also supporting our veterinary team in consultation rooms. His dedication to advancing canine reproductive health and his fresh perspective continue to enhance our service delivery.
We're delighted to have Andrew as a permanent member of our team, where his skills and enthusiasm contribute significantly to maintaining our high standards of care and innovation in canine fertility services.
Contact Andrew: lab@elitekennelfertility.com
Kate Ashmore BSc (Hons) - Director
As well as being Director and General Manager of Stallion AI Services, Kate is one of our three directors at Elite Kennel Fertility. Her enthusiasm for canine reproduction stems from over 15 years’ experience in the equine reproduction industry. With Kate's experience in reproduction it provides us with the wealth of knowledge to raise the standards in canine assisted reproduction.
Contact Kate: kate@elitekennelfertility.com
Tullis Matson FRAgS - Director
Tullis has won numerous awards in the reproduction industry and regularly lectures worldwide on reproductive sciences. His passion for equine and canine reproduction allows us to provide the very best, latest technology, innovation and expertise in the industry.
In addition to Elite Kennel Fertility, Tullis also owns Stallion AI Services, a renowned stallion semen freezing centre with over 30 years’ experience in the field of reproduction, innovation and genetic preservation.
Contact Tullis: tullis@elitekennelfertility.com
Julian Barnfield – Director
Julian has extensive experience within the industry; overseeing large working kennels and breeding dogs for 30 years.
Focused principally on breeding and training elite working dogs, Julian has also had his fair share of success in the show ring. He is an expert in the field of canine husbandry and has lectured on this subject to large audiences across the UK.
Contact Julian: julian@elitekennelfertility.com
