My Journey
I’m the trainer and handler I am today because of one incredible dog — Vader. What began as a simple pet turned into something far more meaningful. I thought I was getting a companion and an agility partner — instead, I found my passion. The dog that changed my world.
As we trained, competed, and learned together, I dove headfirst into the world of dog behavior, scent detection in the professional world, and canine sports. I attended every seminar I could, read every book I could find, watched every video, and mentored under trainers I respected.
Vader and I progressed from NW1 to NW3 Elite in just one year, and our bond only grew deeper with every experience. I then started teaching others through when asked by others in both search and rescue, scent work, and basic obedience/cgc prep through both group and private lessons. I now have 13 years of experience working with dogs in various sports through a variety of methods. I’ve loved our journey and continue to experience joy as I work and grow through education and trial experience.
About Melissa
Today, I work with handlers and their dogs across all levels — from basic scent work skills to advanced and title preparation. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your communication, build your dog’s confidence, or test for a specific goal, I’m here to guide you through it.
I love seeing the ‘light bulb’ go off as handlers make connections and improve their handling and skills. Troubleshooting is my one of my favorite things. The happiness of owners as they see their canine friend succeed and improve, there is nothing greater.
Scent Work is a sport that can help decrease reactivity in dogs, improve confidence in more timid or fearful dogs, and improve the bond between dog and human as we learn to listen and communicate with our canine partners. Something so simple, can improve so much. I have my dog to thank for sharing his world with me and I’d like to help your dog share his world with you through this wonderful sport.
I now have Neo my ‘younger’ dog who is at the Summit level and who I trial with in IGP (tracking, obedience, and protection) as well working him in dock diving, fast cats, cats, parkour, rally, and trick dog. We’ve achieved so much together, but Vader paved that foundation for me and each dog continues to teach me more that enters my life.