Karl Gunzer, Director, Sporting Dog Group
I manage a team of highly experienced specialists who oversee Purina’s sponsorships and the support of sporting dog organizations, associations, and clubs. These sponsorships help promote and advance the breeding of sporting dogs and the education of individuals who participate in these competitions. I also manage our partnerships with non-profit conservation organizations such as Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, and the Ruffed Grouse Society. In addition to these responsibilities, I help educate sportsmen and sporting dog owners about the importance of good nutrition to help keep their dogs healthy and competing at the highest level.
What makes you uniquely qualified for the position?
I’ve spent my whole life training and competing with sporting dogs. After working with several nationally known trainers, I owned and operated my own kennel for 13 years, training multiple field champions and a Canadian National Champion. Prior to my career dog training, I was a director at the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and have a strong background in wildlife conservation and hunting.
Why are you passionate about your segment?
I love sporting dogs and am passionate about the outdoors and conservation. I enjoy learning about proper nutrition and helping others be successful with their dogs.
What difference do you think Pro Plan makes for dogs?
High quality nutrition helps dogs handle the rigors of hunting and training. This helps keep them healthy, happy and performing at the top of their game. Competition has become so challenging these days that good nutrition can be an important tool when dogs need to perform at their best.
Please list any awards or accomplishments you’ve earned that demonstrate your expertise in your segment:
- Professionally trained field trial retrievers for 20 years
- Competed in 8 national championships with 20 different dogs
- Trained the National High-point derby dog
- Trained the winner of the Canadian National Open and Amateur
- Was twice the high-point derby kennel in the US
- Trained five national finalists