The Team
Russ
All levels of obedience, Behavior Modification, Service Dog & specialty
**NOT CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS**
Russ is the man who started it all. He first started working with police dogs several years ago and has an extensive background in dog training. His certifications are through P.O.S.T., the only training program in the country recognized for expertise in dog psychology and behavior by the U.S Supreme Court. With over a decade of experience, Russ is our top trainer.
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Russ was a certified instructor for patrol and narcotic disciplines, and he is a master in dog obedience, drive, temperament development, and behavior recognition and modification.
During his career, he has trained thousands of dogs, specializing in protection and scent work disciplines. He owns Raya, Envy & Hela, Belgian Malinois trained in personal protection and scent detection, as well as his family dog, “Buddy,” a King Charles Cavalier.
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Russ enjoys road cycling, Drones, RC cars, motorcycles, family outings, and Blaze Pizza.
Russ is based out of Mapleton.
kristine
All levels of Obedience, Behavior Modification, & Public Access
Currently being mentored for Service Dog & Speciality
Kristine came to Maligator after trying, on her own, to figure out why her crazy Great Dane Kona couldn’t get along with other dogs. After working with Maligator for a few months she saw such huge differences in Kona’s behavior, and found a passion in learning how dogs think.
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She enjoys learning new things and supporting her teammates. Her favorite part of training is seeing the relationship between owner and dog strengthen and grow as they learn to communicate.
She loves being outside, whether that is camping and fishing with her family, hiking with her dog, or playing sports with her kids.
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Kristine is based out of West Jordan.
KAMI
All levels of Obedience, Behavior Modification, & Public Access
Kami’s journey with Maligator began nearly a decade ago when she brought her German Shepherd, Kujo, in for some behavioral training. What started as a solution for one dog turned into a full-blown career—and passion—that’s lasted ever since.
Now one of our longest-tenured Master Trainers, Kami brings a wealth of experience, a sharp eye for behavior, and a quiet, dry sense of humor that keeps both dogs and humans on their toes. She currently works and lives with two Belgian Malinois: Hades, a certified Mold Detection Dog, and Onyx, who’s in training to follow in his big brother’s paw prints.
When Kami isn’t training dogs or chasing after her son, you’ll find her hiking (the kind that won’t make the news), perfecting her sourdough bread recipe, or poking fun at her friends over a good BBQ. She's also a big fan of scary movies—as long as the dogs don’t try to bark at every jump scare.
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Kami is based out of Payson.
JENNY
Puppy 101, Puppy Essentials, & Puppy Transformation
Jenny's journey with Maligator began in 2020 as a client in a freshman group class with her sweet 10-year-old lab mix, Jersey Bear. That first class was a blast—and proved that even senior pups can learn plenty of new tricks.
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When she later welcomed Marty, a Belgian Malinois with significant fear and anxiety challenges, she turned to Maligator for expert support. She explored everything the program had to offer: behavior classes, group obedience, private lessons, and even a board & train program. Along the way, they built an amazing community of both human and canine friends.
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In 2023, her pack grew again with Ranger, a black lab mix, who trained through e-collar work and senior classes.
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These experiences showed her just how much joy, connection, and enrichment training can bring to everyday life. So when the opportunity to join the Maligator team as a trainer came along, she jumped at it.
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Jenny is based out of Spanish Fork.
alesha
Administrative Assistant & Customer Service Specialist
Meet Alesha, our wonderful customer service specialist and administrative assistant. Alesha came to us as a client, and with the help of her husband, they together took their dog through our obedience programs, and their dog Luda now holds the record for the youngest dog to ever pass advanced obedience.
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Alesha is so much fun, beaming with enthusiasm, kindness and a gentle yet spicy personality. She applied for this position, when it became available, and she was a very clear choice. With her quick wit, reassuring personality and pure kindness, Alesha has taken this position, and made it her own, and she has far exceeded what we could’ve imagined.
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Alesha likes cycling, spending time with her family, and making sure the boss stay in line and on schedule. She is who you talk to first, when you call, email, or have questions about our program.