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Meet the Founder: Our Dog Training Philosophy
A Passion for Dogs, A Purpose for People
A Passion for Dogs, A Purpose for People
My journey into dog training began long before I ever considered turning it into a career.
Growing up surrounded by dogs, I often observed how people interacted with them, often resorting to punishment, intimidation, and force to control behavior. Even as a child, I felt there had to be a better method. This fascination with the belief that dogs could learn through trust, communication, and positive reinforcement—not fear or intimidation—became the foundation of my training philosophy.
This belief ultimately guided me to establish Righteous K9 Academy.
In 2016, I was introduced to Can Do Canines, a nonprofit organization dedicated to training and placing assistance dogs with individuals living with disabilities. Through their prison-based assistance dog training program, I was presented with an opportunity that would forever change my life.
From the moment I discovered the program, I was all in. I dedicated myself to learning everything I could about dog behavior, learning theory, and service dog development. Throughout my time in the program, I helped raise and train six future assistance dogs from puppyhood until they were approximately two years old, providing the positive reinforcement they needed to thrive in their service dog careers.
In addition, I had the privilege to work with and mentor other trainers, gaining hands-on experience with numerous dogs of diverse temperaments, personalities, and training needs.
Through Can Do Canines, I earned a Dog Training Certificate from Western Technical College in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, which further solidified my knowledge and professional foundation in dog training.
While still engaged in the program, I began to cultivate the vision that would eventually lead to the creation of Righteous K9 Academy LLC.
Continued Learning and Professional Growth
After returning home, I wanted to further my knowledge of dog training and the pet services industry. I spent a year at Zoom Room Appleton, where I gained valuable experience in client coaching, group instruction, and the day-to-day operations of a successful dog training business focused on positive reinforcement. This experience reinforced an important lesson: great dog training isn't just about teaching dogs; it's about teaching people how to understand, communicate with, and confidently lead their dogs. Today, I continue to volunteer with Can Do Canines and remain connected to the organization that helped shape my career. I am also proud to engage with Righteous K9 Academy, where I share insights about the training philosophy that emphasizes the bond between dogs and their owners. I'm honored to occasionally return and speak about the impact dog training has had on my life and the invaluable lessons I've learned from working with these incredible animals.
My Training Philosophy
At Righteous K9 Academy, I believe that the best dog training fosters a partnership between dog and owner. My training philosophy emphasizes that sessions should be fair, clear, and consistent, all designed to help dogs succeed. While obedience is crucial, my ultimate goal is to assist owners in building a relationship with their dogs based on trust, communication, and mutual understanding through positive reinforcement. Every dog is unique, and every family has different needs. That's why I create individualized training plans tailored to each dog's specific requirements, ensuring lasting results both at home and in the real world.
Why Righteous K9 Academy?
At Righteous K9 Academy, we believe that dog training has the power to transform lives—both human and canine. Our training philosophy is centered on positive reinforcement, which helps dogs become confident, well-mannered companions. My mission is to empower owners with the skills and knowledge needed to lead successful, fulfilling lives alongside their dogs. Whether you're raising a new puppy, addressing behavioral challenges, or aiming for advanced obedience, I'm dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and strengthen the relationship you've always wanted with your dog. Building Better Dogs. Empowering Better Owners.
Quick Facts
As the founder of Righteous K9 Academy LLC, I hold a dog training certificate from Western Technical College and have a strong background in positive reinforcement techniques. I previously worked as an assistance dog trainer with Can Do Canines, where I raised and trained six future assistance dogs. Additionally, I have served as a volunteer speaker and mentor with Can Do Canines. My experience also includes being a trainer at Zoom Room Appleton. Currently, I am proud to offer my dog training services to Appleton, the Fox Valley, and Northeast Wisconsin, guided by my training philosophy focused on effective and compassionate methods.