From researching the centuries-old history of the breed to competing across multiple dog sports and breeding under the Vizdom prefix, Oksana brings a deep passion for the Vizsla and a clear vision for the future of our National Club. We asked her to share more about her journey, her dogs, and what inspires her as she begins her term as President.
What is your role with Vizsla Canada, and what does it involve?
I am honoured to serve as the new President of the Vizsla Canada, and I am looking forward to the next three years with great optimism!
First, I would like to thank our outgoing Board members who has passed the torch to the new Board members. Your generous efforts and time you devoted to our National Club are greatly appreciated.
Second, I would like to thank all our members. Our Club runs on the dedication of our members who step up whenever needed; thanks to all of you!
I joined the Board as the Western Canada (Prairies) Director three years ago. During this time, our membership on the Prairies slowly grew, and in 2025 we were able to host our very first on the Prairies Vizsla Booster, at the AKC show in Okotoks, AB. In 2026, we are excited about the National Specialty on July 11 in Saanichton, BC and the Regional Specialty on July 31 in Okotoks, AB.
I see my new role as the President as the one helping to keep initiatives on track, remove obstacles, and manage risks. Our Board and Club members are full with bright ideas, and my role is to ensure these ideas become a reality.
How did you first become involved with Vizslas?
I fell in love with the Vizsla (Smooth) about thirteen years ago, but I got attracted to the breed long time before that. Together with my family, I arrived in Canada from Ukraine almost 30 years ago. And the Vizsla is believed to originate in the Scythia, which today encompass several modern countries including modern Ukraine. Fascinated by the breed history, I spent decades researching archives and newspapers and wrote several pieces on the breed origin and history (https://zenodo.org/records/14969618; https://zenodo.org/records/14903342; https://zenodo.org/records/14852821) To keep the story short, after learning about the breed and trying different canine sports with my first Vizsla, I become focusing on breeding and exhibiting Vizsla (Smooth) under the “Vizdom” prefix.
What do you love most about the breed?
The Vizsla’s versatility. Is there a canine sport they can’t play? The Vizsla can give it 100% in the field, showing its stamina and drive, becoming a loving family dog napping in front of the fireplace or on your laps once back home.
What activities do you do with your Vizslas?
Currently, I have three of these beautiful dogs. I absolutely love playing every canine sport out there with them. With my dogs I compete in the field, conformation, obedience, rally-obedience, agility, scent detection, sprinter, chase ability, and trailing and locating.
What is one thing you wish more people knew about Vizslas?
The Vizsla does not like to be left alone for too long. They are called “Velcro” dogs for a reason; they love to be near their favourite people. Allow them to be near, by your side, and they move mountains for you!
What is your favourite Vizsla memory or proudest moment with the breed?
I have so many proud moments; each of my dogs excel in various sports. If I had to pick only moment, it would be when my female Hera became a dual champion, not only securing the highest title in conformation, Grand Champion Excellent, but also becoming the first Vizsla in Canada earning her Rally-Obedience Championship in 2024.
Why is Vizsla Canada important to you?
The Vizsla Canada is the National Club that not only promotes and preserves the versatility of two breeds, the Vizsla (Smooth) and Wire-Haired Vizsla, but it also serves as a hub connecting Vizsla breeders, owners, and supporters.
What would you like to see Vizsla Canada focus on over the next year?
I would love to see our membership growing and see more of our lovely dogs and their people getting together to compete in various sports, across Canada.
What is one fun fact about you or your dogs?
Wanting to share my knowledge of the breed with young readers, I recently published my first children’s book, featuring my own dogs (https://books.friesenpress.com/store/title/119734000572848257/Oksana-Moshynska-Frey-Goes-to-Kindergarten)
