The Team
Who We Are
Russ
All levels of obedience, All levels Behavior Modification, Service Work and Scent Detection
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.
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 and specializes in protection and scent work disciplines. He owns Raya, Envy & Hela, Belgian Malinois trained in personal protection and scent detection, as well as his two family dogs, a German Shorthair Pointer named Ranger, and “Buddy” a King Charles Cavalier
Russ enjoys road cycling, Drones, RC cars, motorcycles, family outings and Blaze Pizza.
Russ is based out of Mapleton.
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Kristine
All levels of obedience, All levels Behavior Modification, & Public Access
Currently being mentored for Service Dog Training.
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.
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.
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Daria
Level I, Level II
Currently being mentored for Ecollar training
and Behavior Modification
Daria sought out Maligator's expertise following a troubling incident involving her dog Scout, requiring urgent rehabilitation. After months of dedicated training, Scout completed Detention and Senior Obedience courses, now accompanying her to most sessions for additional support.
With a passion for laughter and a desire to uplift others, Daria draws inspiration from her own dog's remarkable transformation rooted in understanding canine psychology. She endeavors to extend this transformative experience to other families, much like her own.
Outside her professional endeavors, Daria finds solace in hiking with her beloved dogs and cherishing moments with her husband.
She eagerly anticipates furthering her expertise in advanced levels and eventually specializing in behavioral training.
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Based in Eagle Mountain, Daria covers the areas of Eagle Mountain, American Fork, and surrounding areas.
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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 bosses stay in line, and on schedule. She is who you talk to first, when you call, email, or have questions about our program.
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