ABOUT
Jessica
Gina
I have always loved animals and knew from a young age I wanted to pursue a career in working with them. My passion led me to begin volunteering for a local rescue in 2013, where I took on many roles. I loved being able to help find dogs their forever homes; however, I soon realized that no matter how many dogs were being adopted out there were just as many coming in. Dogs were, and still are being relinquished to shelters and/or re-homed for various reasons, but one of the main reasons is due to lack of training.
To make a larger impact, I knew a different approach was needed, which was helping to keep dogs in their homes by empowering owners with the skills and knowledge to train them. I am thrilled to share my knowledge with clients to help them learn how to build a beautiful life and relationship with their dogs.
- Gina Head Trainer & Puppy Specialist
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Volunteer and Board Member at Helping Hands for Animals (2013 – 2015)
In 2013, Gina began volunteering for a local rescue where she spent her time walking dogs, taking the dogs to adoption events, organizing fundraisers, and coordinating adoptions. She also was in charge of handling the dog introductions and following up with new adopters to ensure that life with their new pup was going well. Gina is still an active volunteer at various Dog Rescues and Shelters across the Midwest giving her time to consult on dog behavior, training, and dogs transitioning home.
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Head Trainer (2014 – present)
Gina's professional dog training career began in 2014 when she studied under the mentorship of a local dog trainer. This apprenticeship equipped her with the skills and knowledge on how to help dogs and owners live a happy and peaceful life together. Gina went on to become a Head Trainer with a Midwest-based dog training company where she had the privilege of working with dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages while addressing behavioral issues ranging from basic to serious. Her job consisted of conducting both private sessions and group classes. She also assisted in board & trains, pack walks, workshops, and apprenticeship programs.
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Alliance of Therapy Dogs Member (2022 - Present)
Since March 2022, Gina & her dog Vito have been proud members of the Alliance of Therapy Dogs. Together, they complete regular therapy visits to hospitals, schools, assisted living centers, and more spreading joy and comfort to those we encounter.
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A Lifelong Learner
Since 2014, Gina has pursued continuous learning under the guidance of various esteemed dog trainers across the country. This ongoing education enriches her puppy classes with a diverse range of skills and techniques to meet the unique needs of every dog and owner.
Christian
Christian joined our team in 2022 as a part time daycare attendant right before we moved into our facility! He now oversees our daycare program and makes sure everything is running smoothly! He is jokingly known as your dog’s favorite uncle!!
In his free time Christian enjoys outdoors activities like hunting and fishing as well as spending time with his family - including his corgi Whiskey!
Maddie
Maddie joined our team in 2022 after starting as a training client in 2021. She took every class we offered, and it was clear she belonged on the team! Now a full-time trainer, she leads private sessions and day training programs.
In her free time, Maddie enjoys learning about dog behavior, health, and nutrition. She loves spending time with her three dogs and fiancé, Andrew—traveling and teaching their pups new tricks. She also dabbles in photography, capturing the many joys of life!