Growing up amongst animals I am so blessed to have worked with so many in my lifetime. From my beloved dogs (and client's dogs) to my horses and everything in between animals have always been an integral part of my life. I am proud to have been involved with thousands of dogs and owners over the years. From pet to performance, I have had some brilliant moments with my own dogs and cannot wait to help you transform your relationship with your dog(s). Here are some of my certifications: × AKC CGC Approved Evaluator × Certified Raw Dog Food Nutrition Specialist – Dogs Naturally × National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors (NADOI) Certified Member × UKC SPOT Evaluator × UKC Provisional Obedience Judge × LIMA Certified Some of my performance experience: × AKC OTCH – American Staffordshire Terrier (2025) × AKC UDX2 – All American (2025) × AKC National Obedience Championship – All American Winner (2024) × UKC OCH – American Pit Bull Terrier (2023) × AKC UD – All American (2023) × UKC Top Ten Obedience - All American (2022-23) × UKC Top Ten Obedience - American Pit Bull Terrier (2022-23) × AKC National Obedience Championship - Working Dog Group Winner (2014) × AKC OTCH - Rottweiler (2014) × AKC CDX & RE – Pit Bull Terrier (2011) × AKC CD – Rottweiler (2006) × AKC CD – Rottweiler (first titled dog) (2003)

Jen has been part of the AQK9 family for 3 years. She competes with her German Shepherd, Luna and her Scottish Terrier, May in both UKC and AKC obedience. Jen is dedicated to her girls and it shows. We are very grateful to have Jen as she helps with nearly everything at the facility. You’ll see her here most every day working her dogs, helping with nails/grooming, cleaning up and assisting with a variety of classes.

Michele is our conformation guru. She has done an excellent job helping her students excel in the conformation ring. Michele has extensive experience in the conformation world working along side of some incredible breeders and exhibitors over the years. She also teaches puppy class and beginner novice classes. Michele has two dogs. Snap is an adorable Brussells Griffon and Miles, is a Whippet. Snap has his CD in AKC obedience and is in training for open. Miles is her newest addition and finishing up his novice training.

Sarah's bio coming soon.

Brett started training with AQK9 in 2021 thinking he would "fix" his problem dog in 10-weeks and move on with his life. Little did he know he would fall in love with obedience training, AQK9, and all his fellow classmates and dog-centric friends. Obedience training and helping others learn how to handle their dogs have grown into Brett's passion. Brett substitute teaches The Sit Club and organizes AQK9 off-site training sessions. He loves the boxer breed, having owned multiple sets of boxers over the past 25 years, and volunteers with the Minnesota Boxer Rescue. Brett's current resident boxers are Rex, who is his training partner and the better half of Team Brexy, and Fiona, his senior-living relaxation pet. Brett and Rex compete in both UKC and AKC obedience.

Hi everyone! My name is Victoria and I am an Animal Massage Therapist and Bodyworker. I run my own small business called The Balanced Orchid. I have been a human massage therapist for 15 years and animal massage therapist for 7. I specialize in chronic pain and injuries, with a focus in structural misalignments. I graduated with an AAS Degree (focusing on Massage Therapy, Kinesiology, and Biomechanics) from Minnesota School of Business in 2009. I also have been a member of the IAAMB (International Association of Animal Massage and Bodywork) since 2018. Recently, I retired from human massage so I can focus primarily on animal clients, and I love every minute of it! Even though I’ve been a massage therapist for many years, I have been working with animals just as long. Whether working at the Animal Humane Society, a boarding facility, a vet clinic, or volunteering with various rescue groups in the Twin Cities, animals have always been a part of my life. Since 2010, I have helped as a Vet Assistant for Dr. Jessica Levy of Holistic Veterinary Clinic. Dr. Levy has been amazing mentor by helping study and understand various ailments in the animal world. In my free time, I’m training my Aussie, Levon, with Tiffany, or enjoying a nice glass of red wine.