Our Story
I was one of the first twelve Air Force Canine Handlers to be chosen to help support First Marine Expeditionary Force in Operation Iraqi Freedom. My dogs seized drugs, explosives, and people. I was blessed with the best training possible from our United States Air Force. Needless to say, I am very patriotic and still get nostalgic when I listen to “I’m Proud to Be an American” by Lee Greenwood.
After the Air Force, I was a Canine Handler & Supervisor for Kontraband Interdiction and Detection Services (K.I.D.S.Inc). I trained at least 12 dogs to detect and alert illegal drugs, alcohol, and gun powder based substances to keep kids safe in their schools. I trained at least 15 associates, police officers, and sheriffs to train and handle their own dogs. I also gave demos at schools and worked with kids. This job really helped me to become more of a people person when communicating how dogs should be trained. It also helped me transition from a military lifestyle to the “civilian world”. I traveled all over California and my favorite schools to go to were in San Diego. Fortunately, my wife has many relatives there, so I still have reason to vacation Dog Beach in SoCal.
My beautiful wife, GiGi, was an awesome elementary teacher with a personality that people gravitate to. I helped her pick her first puppy which she named Ammo. She always grew up with dogs, but she never raised one from a pup on her own. It not only taught me how difficult owning a puppy could be for others, but how important it is for a household to be on the same page with commands and communication. We love educating and helping others which is how A+ Dog Training became our business. GiGi stopped teaching after 15 years to help me handle the business part of A+ Dog Training. You might find her walking only in front of your neighbor’s house with Ammo, our Labrador while I’m working with your neighbor and their dog on how to be calm at the front window!
Like humans, not one dog is the same as another and I keep an open mind when training. If you ask me what my favorite breed/age to work with is, I will tell you that it’s the dog that will give me the biggest challenge! With experience, a friendly personality, and my calm-confident patience, I am sure that we can come to a solution for your whole family to bring out the best in your dog!
I believe that I have been given a gift of communicating with people on how to turn their dog into the healthy, happy, well-balanced dog they once fell in love with. Feel free to set up a consultation where you can get to know more about me and how we can help your family.
