Kristen E. (Erickson) Ashton, 77, of Dartmouth died peacefully November 4, 2024 at St. Luke's Hospital.

 

Born in New Bedford, daughter of the late Norman H. and Eleanor M. (Riley) Erickson, she lived in Dartmouth most of her life.

 

Kris devoted her life to working with animals, especially dogs. She raised German Shepherds and Doberman Pinschers, and was the former owner of Von Ragus Kennels in Lakeville, MA, and The Dog Paddle in Bourne, MA. Kris taught in the Canine Science Program at Mount Ida College, sharing her expertise with future animal care professionals.

 

Renowned for her expertise in grooming, she gained a reputation for her unique approach with even the most difficult cats and dogs. With a special emphasis on training and a strong commitment to canine nutrition and holistic medicine, she was celebrated for her dedication to growth and skill development. Constantly expanding her knowledge, she stayed informed on the latest research, eagerly sharing her insights with students, friends, and family. Over the years, she bred and trained numerous dogs, earning many titles in various competitions, from AKC conformation to Schutzhund III. She leaves behind two Dobermans, Reason and Dazzle, whom she was training for their Schutzhund titles, and her beloved cat, Tonka. Until her passing, Kris served as an obedience instructor at Champion Kennel in Sterling, MA, and The Animal Inn in Sandwich, MA, where her expertise and dedication touched countless lives.

 

Kris was a dedicated and respected figure in the dog community, actively involved in the United Doberman Club, Southcoast Working Dog Club, Cape Cod Schutzhund Club, OG Boston Schutzhund Club, and served on the board of the Wampanoag Kennel Club. She was also a former member of the Doberman Pinscher Club of America. Known for her strength, independence, and unwavering commitment to the dog world, Kris offered support, knowledge, and encouragement to countless individuals in raising, training, and competing with their dogs. Her absence will be deeply felt by family, friends, students, and the wider dog community. 

 

Survivors include her daughter, Nina M. Despres and her husband David of Dartmouth; a son, John E. Ashton and his wife Amber of Dartmouth; 3 grandchildren, Aidan, Dane and Ava.

 

She was the sister of the late Martha Jane Heard.

 

In her memory, the family requests donations to the Humane Society of Southcoast (hsssc.org) or Delaware Valley Doberman Pinscher Assistance, Inc. (dvdpa.org) in lieu of flowers.

 

A celebration of life will be planned in the following weeks.

 

Arrangements are with the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford.  For online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.