About Me
Hey! I'm Sammi, and I'm thrilled that you're here!
I'm the owner and head trainer of Spark-K9 which was founded in 2020. I have a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in communications - both of which have helped immensely on my personal dog training journey and through my business venture. I spent nearly 10 years in public service before transitioning to full-time entrepreneur life. My journey with Sparkle started in 2016 and she eventually lead me to seek out balanced training. Sparkle and I continue to apply, practice, and live daily using balanced training methods and we've made incredible progress.
I’ve helped dozens of dogs and their families live harmonious lives together through balanced training and I can’t wait to help YOU and your dog. In addition to hands-on experience training dogs, I’ve attended various shadow programs, workshops, and seminars both locally and throughout the nation. I believe that continued education is essential for success in any profession and I strive to never stop learning! When I’m not training dogs, you’ll probably find me reading, baking (or eating) something delicious, or hanging outside - or some combination of all three!
Now, I want to help you and your dog live your best lives as a team! If you are struggling with your dog, you are not alone. Let's take the next step, together.
About Our Training
Our Methods in Balanced Training
Our training uses a relationship based approach that will provide clarity and give feedback to your dog. We provide feedback through the use of various tools and techniques to see more of the behaviors we want and less of the behaviors that we don’t want. We teach dog that there can be both positive and negative consequences for their behaviors and actions.
To establish clear communication with your dog, some of the tools we may use include prong collars, ecollars, slip leashes, food, play, affiction and much more.
It is extremely important to us that throughout our training, we will help coach you, the owner, on how to use these tools safely and humanely. Additionally, we focus heavily on how you can be the best leader for your dog, which will then help your dog become the best version of themselves! At Spark-K9, we recognize each dog/owner team as an individual and unique team. We will work with you to find the best balance for your lives, together!
Balanced training is empowering for both owners and dogs alike because communication becomes clear and your relationship with your dog becomes stronger.
Balanced Training is a Lifestyle
Training your dog isn't going to be a quick fix - it's a lifestyle. Dogs are living in a human world which can be scary and unfamiliar. Dogs need us to advocate for them and be the leaders they crave. At Spark-K9, we will coach you to become the best leader and advocate for your dog, so they can be the best version of themselves.
What makes our training different?
While it is called “dog training”, we provide a heavy emphasis on the “human training” aspect, as well. At Spark-K9, we are here to ensure that YOU, the human at the end of the leash, feel supported throughout your dog training journey.