Get to know our trainers
Training Philosophy
Kai believes that leadership through fear is not leadership at all. Their mission is to help owners become confident, capable handlers while building happy, trusting, and resilient dogs through positive, science-based methods.
Inspiration
Kai was inspired to become a dog trainer after witnessing the lack of accessible and reputable training resources for owners, and the heartbreaking number of behavioural surrenders overwhelming shelters and rescues. Determined to make a difference, Kai began self-educating in canine behaviour and offering free training, walks, and consultations to owners who had been discouraged by fear-based or overly aversive methods. This early work showed Kai the incredible potential of positive training and confirmed that helping dogs of all shapes, sizes, and temperaments was the ideal career path.
Professional Experience
Kai’s professional journey began with volunteering at a local animal shelter, later gaining experience as a kennel attendant, veterinary assistant, and dog daycare handler. Wanting to deepen their expertise, Kai pursued an Associate’s degree in Veterinary Technology at the Vet Tech Institute of Fox College, earning a Fear Free Certification along the way. As a Fear Free Certified Veterinary Technician, Kai specialised in working with fearful and aggressive dogs (and cats), using desensitisation and counterconditioning to transform their experiences with veterinary care and grooming. Dogs once considered untouchable or reliant on heavy sedation became able to enjoy treatment with wagging tails. Building on this passion, Kai founded Kai-9 Dog Training to reach more families, offering proactive puppy training and behaviour modification for more complex cases.
Training Focus
Kai has a strong interest in addressing fear-based behaviours, human and dog reactivity, and engagement issues between dogs and their handlers. They also provide structured obedience training and customised plans to help families build stronger communication and trust with their dogs.
Want to Join Our Training Team?
Join a team committed to ethical, positive reinforcement-based training.
We’re looking for qualified and experienced dog trainers who share our approach to compassionate, science-based training. If you have the skills, knowledge and dedication to support dogs and their families, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply to Join Our Team