THE TEAM
Our experienced team has a deep understanding of canine psychology, fostering a balanced learning environment designed to bring out the best in every dog.
Russ
All levels of Obedience, Behavior
Modification, Service Dog & specialty
Russ is the man who started it all. He began working with police dogs several years ago and has over 14 years of professional experience in advanced 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. He is also the only certified canine behaviorist in the state, bringing a level of knowledge that goes well beyond that of a standard dog trainer.
Russ personally trains each Maligator staff member to ensure consistency and excellence across every program. He is a former certified instructor for patrol and narcotic disciplines and specializes in obedience, drive and temperament development, behavior recognition, protection, and scent work.
He owns Raya, Envy, and Hela, Belgian Malinois trained in personal protection and scent detection, as well as Rue, a young Labrador being raised for scent detection and future breeding. Rounding out the pack are Buddy, a King Charles Cavalier, and Crumbl, a Corgi.
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
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.
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. Kristine also runs a 1-year-old Malinois named Raja, who is working toward becoming a certified detection dog.
She loves being outside, whether that is camping and fishing with her family, hiking with her dog, or playing sports with her kids.
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.
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.
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.
In 2023, her pack grew again with Ranger, a black lab mix, who trained through e-collar work and senior classes.
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.
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.
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.
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.
MELISSA
Puppy Transformation, & Foundational Obedience
Melissa came to Maligators because her soft, fearful—and at times spicy—Blue Heeler, Boomer, struggled with new people and other dogs. After a year of working with Maligators through behavior classes, private lessons, and group sessions, she saw such a dramatic improvement in Boomer that she knew she wanted to continue her journey with Russ and the team.
In 2023, after evaluating a litter of Irish Setters with Russ, she welcomed Charlie into the family. While Charlie can often be vocal and dramatic, she has been trained through all levels of obedience (well… almost), including e-collar work, and is currently working toward service work. Recently she decided she wasn’t quite done growing her pack and brought home Oliver, a Pembroke Corgi, also selected with Russ’s help. Oliver is the pack’s biggest personality and will, quite hilariously, likely end up as the leader—despite being the littlest dog.
Melissa is passionate about helping owners better understand their dogs and believes that with the right structure, consistency, and guidance, every dog has the potential to succeed. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, road trips, watching and attending sporting events, a good movie, and tackling home improvement projects.
