Board Members
and Staff
Board Members and Staff
2024 Board of Directors
Heidi Meinzer,
JD, CPDT-KSA, CNWI
APDT Chair
Heidi Meinzer, JD, CPDT-KSA, CNWI
APDT Chair
Heidi Meinzer, JD, CPDT-KSA, CNWI. Heidi’s background is unique as she is both a practicing attorney and a trainer. She obtained her law degree in 2000, initially serving as a public defender for six years before joining a civil litigation law firm for seven years. While at the firm, Heidi’s practice naturally gravitated to animal law. In 2013, Heidi established her own law firm to focus on animal law and small business and nonprofit law.
Heidi has devoted her efforts to civic activities, including with the Maryland State Bar Association’s Animal Law Section and on various legislative work groups studying companion animal law issues in Virginia. Heidi’s civic work includes serving on the boards of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, the Virginia Federation of Humane Societies, and Homeward Trails Animal Rescue, Inc.
In 2011, Heidi began her work as a dog trainer with the award-winning company Fur-Get Me Not. Since 2013, she has been a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and a Certified Nose Work Instructor. She learned a tremendous amount from her beautiful but reactive German Shepherd, Sophie, and her amazing partner, Boomer, an English lab who achieved his ELT-CH title in 2020. Heidi has continued the lab/Shepherd combination with her current canine companions, Hannah and Arwen.
Heidi has devoted her efforts to civic activities, including with the Maryland State Bar Association’s Animal Law Section and on various legislative work groups studying companion animal law issues in Virginia. Heidi’s civic work includes serving on the boards of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, the Virginia Federation of Humane Societies, and Homeward Trails Animal Rescue, Inc.
In 2011, Heidi began her work as a dog trainer with the award-winning company Fur-Get Me Not. Since 2013, she has been a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and a Certified Nose Work Instructor. She learned a tremendous amount from her beautiful but reactive German Shepherd, Sophie, and her amazing partner, Boomer, an English lab who achieved his ELT-CH title in 2020. Heidi has continued the lab/Shepherd combination with her current canine companions, Hannah and Arwen.
Ines McNeil,
CPDT-KA
APDT Vice-Chair
Ines McNeil, CPDT-KA
APDT Vice-Chair
Ines McNeil, B.S. Biology, CPDT-KA, is a dog training industry expert with over 15 years of experience. She has operated her own dog training businesses in Texas and New York state in addition to working for a multitude of organizations as a professional dog trainer teaching group classes, private in-home lessons, and providing board and train services. She was an early adopter of virtual dog training back in 2014 and helped trainers make the leap to virtual training at the beginning of the pandemic in 2020.
She founded the industry-leading dog training business coaching company, The Modern Dog Trainer, in October 2014, to mentor other trainers on the business side of being a dog trainer. She now has an incredible team that supports her mission and her students which made it a perfect time for her to join the board of the APDT.
Outside of work, Ines is a mom to a talented and curious 3 yr old. She also shares her home and life with her supportive husband, Sean, her dog, Clark (a Cardigan Welsh Corgi,) and a rescue cat named Kiwi ("Kitty" in toddler speak).
She founded the industry-leading dog training business coaching company, The Modern Dog Trainer, in October 2014, to mentor other trainers on the business side of being a dog trainer. She now has an incredible team that supports her mission and her students which made it a perfect time for her to join the board of the APDT.
Outside of work, Ines is a mom to a talented and curious 3 yr old. She also shares her home and life with her supportive husband, Sean, her dog, Clark (a Cardigan Welsh Corgi,) and a rescue cat named Kiwi ("Kitty" in toddler speak).
Sandy Modell,
B.S., CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Sandy Modell, B.S., CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
For over 20 years, Sandy has been training dogs using rewards-based, positive reinforcement methods. She is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), an AKC CGC/CGCA Approved Evaluator, a Mentor Trainer for the Animal Behavior College, a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), a licensed certified Family Paws Parent Educator (FPPE), a member of the Pet Professional Guild (PPG), and on the list of national Truly Dog-Friendly Trainers.
Her mentors include some of our industry’s pioneers of positive training such as, Patty Ruzzo, Leslie Nelson, Sue Sternberg, Pat Miller, Kathy Sdao, Robin Bennett and others.
In June 2017, Sandy opened Alexandria Virginia’s first and only, and now award-winning premier training and learning center for people and their dogs. The Academy offers programs and activities for pet dog owners and their dogs, pet care professionals, and other professional dog trainers.
Sandy’s mission includes empowering her clients by teaching them how to communicate with their dogs, how to reinforce the behaviors that they want, and how to respond to both their dog’s good and the bad behaviors. One of her goals is to teach people how to train their dogs to make incredibly brilliant choices, so that they can both live better, happier, and easier lives together.
In June 2018, Wholistic Hound Academy was voted the Best Dog Trainers in Northern Virginia by Northern Virginia Magazine. Earlier this month, the Academy was selected as a finalist in the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce Best in Business Award in the Small Business category.
Her mentors include some of our industry’s pioneers of positive training such as, Patty Ruzzo, Leslie Nelson, Sue Sternberg, Pat Miller, Kathy Sdao, Robin Bennett and others.
In June 2017, Sandy opened Alexandria Virginia’s first and only, and now award-winning premier training and learning center for people and their dogs. The Academy offers programs and activities for pet dog owners and their dogs, pet care professionals, and other professional dog trainers.
Sandy’s mission includes empowering her clients by teaching them how to communicate with their dogs, how to reinforce the behaviors that they want, and how to respond to both their dog’s good and the bad behaviors. One of her goals is to teach people how to train their dogs to make incredibly brilliant choices, so that they can both live better, happier, and easier lives together.
In June 2018, Wholistic Hound Academy was voted the Best Dog Trainers in Northern Virginia by Northern Virginia Magazine. Earlier this month, the Academy was selected as a finalist in the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce Best in Business Award in the Small Business category.
Heather Mishefske,
CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Heather Mishefske, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Heather opened emBARK and began serving dogs and their owners in 2005, but the journey that led to this labor of love began long before that. In 1983, Heather stepped into a simple 4H project and began sharing life with an English Springer Spaniel. That special relationship became the driving force behind emBARK many years later.
While Heather has a degree in Dietetics from UW-Madison, her love for all things dog conquered her career goals, and in December of 2005, she left the healthcare field to pursue her vision of working with dogs. The business, which has grown in the past 15 years from a single proprietor (Heather) to employing 26 dog care professionals, offers daycare, training classes, grooming, massage, and behavior consulting. It didn’t take long before Heather racked up dog training credentials: CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, Living and Learning with Animals Applied Behavior Analysis course certificate of completion, is a certified level II Canine Sports Massage provider and hosts her own podcast.
She is a member of APDT (premium professional), IAABC, Upper Midwest Flat-Coated Retriever Club vice president, Flat Coated Retriever Club of America and has served as a Learning Theory and Behavior guest lecturer at the University of Wisconsin at Eau Claire and presented a lecture on body language to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.
Heather is a steward of her farm and acreage in west central Wisconsin with her husband and her Flat Coated Retrievers. She is an avid hiker, a certified Master Naturalist, cyclist, mountain biker, backpacker, cross country skier, gardener, reader, and curious observer of the natural world. She has shown and competed with her dogs in multiple venues since the age of 13. Her passion for learning in all things is endless, and there is a huge force within her heart to do good for all creatures.
While Heather has a degree in Dietetics from UW-Madison, her love for all things dog conquered her career goals, and in December of 2005, she left the healthcare field to pursue her vision of working with dogs. The business, which has grown in the past 15 years from a single proprietor (Heather) to employing 26 dog care professionals, offers daycare, training classes, grooming, massage, and behavior consulting. It didn’t take long before Heather racked up dog training credentials: CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, Living and Learning with Animals Applied Behavior Analysis course certificate of completion, is a certified level II Canine Sports Massage provider and hosts her own podcast.
She is a member of APDT (premium professional), IAABC, Upper Midwest Flat-Coated Retriever Club vice president, Flat Coated Retriever Club of America and has served as a Learning Theory and Behavior guest lecturer at the University of Wisconsin at Eau Claire and presented a lecture on body language to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.
Heather is a steward of her farm and acreage in west central Wisconsin with her husband and her Flat Coated Retrievers. She is an avid hiker, a certified Master Naturalist, cyclist, mountain biker, backpacker, cross country skier, gardener, reader, and curious observer of the natural world. She has shown and competed with her dogs in multiple venues since the age of 13. Her passion for learning in all things is endless, and there is a huge force within her heart to do good for all creatures.
Erica Marshall,
CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Erica Marshall, CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Erica is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer through the CCPDT, a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant through the IAABC, and a premium professional member of the APDT. She is also a committee member of the Membership Task Force for the APDT. She is from the East Coast, currently living in the Middle TN area where she is the owner/trainer for Wicked Good Dog Training. She has been working with animals for over 20 years and has worn many hats in the animal field, working in veterinary clinics, boarding kennels and humane societies.
Erica’s passion has always been dog behavior and training. She most enjoys helping the bond develop between owner and dog as they learn to communicate better through positive training and interactions. She especially enjoys working with families and helping them raise their puppies to be excellent family companions.
She has trained and titled her own dogs in Rally Obedience, Agility and Tricks. She currently has 4 wonderful dogs: a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a terrier mix, a Great Pyrenees and a cattle dog mix, 7 cats, 2 teenagers and a very understanding husband.
Erica’s passion has always been dog behavior and training. She most enjoys helping the bond develop between owner and dog as they learn to communicate better through positive training and interactions. She especially enjoys working with families and helping them raise their puppies to be excellent family companions.
She has trained and titled her own dogs in Rally Obedience, Agility and Tricks. She currently has 4 wonderful dogs: a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a terrier mix, a Great Pyrenees and a cattle dog mix, 7 cats, 2 teenagers and a very understanding husband.
Robin Bennett,
CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Robin Bennett, CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Robin Bennett is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, author, speaker, and expert on dogs. She founded one of the largest dog training companies in Virginia and has been using her expertise in “reading dogs” to teach families how to train their pets as well as helping others in the pet care industry keep dogs safe for nearly 30 years.
Robin’s first book, All About Dog Daycare is the number one reference on opening a dog daycare. She is also Co-author of Off-Leash Dog Play… A Complete Guide to Safety and Fun, and an extensive staff training program called, Knowing Dogs, which are the leading staff training resources for dog daycare and boarding facilities.
Robin co-founded The Dog Gurus, the nation’s premier resource for dog care which helps pet care professionals get their lives back by showing them how to create sustainable businesses with teams that truly know dogs. She now hosts pet parent discussions online, teaches virtual Fit Dog Classes online, and encourages families to get fit with their dogs in a AKC Fit Dog Club.
Robin’s first book, All About Dog Daycare is the number one reference on opening a dog daycare. She is also Co-author of Off-Leash Dog Play… A Complete Guide to Safety and Fun, and an extensive staff training program called, Knowing Dogs, which are the leading staff training resources for dog daycare and boarding facilities.
Robin co-founded The Dog Gurus, the nation’s premier resource for dog care which helps pet care professionals get their lives back by showing them how to create sustainable businesses with teams that truly know dogs. She now hosts pet parent discussions online, teaches virtual Fit Dog Classes online, and encourages families to get fit with their dogs in a AKC Fit Dog Club.
Fanna Easter, CPDT-KA, KPA CTP, CSAT, CDBC
APDT Immediate Past Chair
Fanna Easter, CPDT-KA, KPA CTP, CSAT, CDBC
APDT Immediate Past Chair
Fanna has been instructing group classes and in-home behavior consults for more than 29 years with a special focus on separation anxiety. She owns Positive Pooch Dog Training and Behavior, which offers virtual, in-home and off-property consultations in the Dallas, Texas area. Also, Fanna teaches reactive dog classes and offers private consultations with the only veterinarian, that specializes in behavior, in the North Texas area.
Because of her love to write, Fanna has written dog training class curricula and dog trainer courses for large pet box chains and nationally recognized dog training schools. Also, she’s authored several articles for Dogs Naturally, Animal Wellness, Chronicle of the Dog and numerous online magazines and blogs. When not working with clients and their dogs, Fanna volunteers at the Bridge, the only homeless shelter that allows dogs, where Fanna and her co-workers offer group classes and one-on-one training for pet guardians.
Fanna shares her home with Miss Stella Mae (Miniature Bull Terrier), Eli Joseph (Miniature Bull Terrier) and Rick, her “darling hubby.”
Because of her love to write, Fanna has written dog training class curricula and dog trainer courses for large pet box chains and nationally recognized dog training schools. Also, she’s authored several articles for Dogs Naturally, Animal Wellness, Chronicle of the Dog and numerous online magazines and blogs. When not working with clients and their dogs, Fanna volunteers at the Bridge, the only homeless shelter that allows dogs, where Fanna and her co-workers offer group classes and one-on-one training for pet guardians.
Fanna shares her home with Miss Stella Mae (Miniature Bull Terrier), Eli Joseph (Miniature Bull Terrier) and Rick, her “darling hubby.”
Sarah Bond, CDBC,
CSAT, CPDT-KSA
APDT Board Member
Sarah Bond, CDBC, CSAT, CPDT-KSA
APDT Board Member
Sarah Bond, CDBC, CSAT, CPDT-KSA, has been teaching people and dogs since 2008. Starting as a PetSmart trainer, she quickly moved into an area trainer position with the company hiring and training new trainers for local stores. In 2014, she transitioned to training shelter dogs to be service dogs through Service Dogs, Inc., a nonprofit in Texas.
In 2018, she left Service Dogs, Inc. to start her own company, Bond Dog Training. Working with her own complicated rescue dog, Percy, led her to specializing in behavior issues like aggression and anxiety.
Currently, Sarah lives in the Texas hill country near Austin with Percy and her lab/German shepherd mix, Clara, a service dog dropout who helps her with other dogs. Bond Dog Training serves the greater Austin area and Sarah focuses on both challenging behavior cases and helping people train their own service dogs.
She works with the city shelter as well as multiple local and state rescues in addition to private clients. She is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant through IAABC, a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge and Skills Assessed. She is passionate about training that is effective and kind, and allows dogs to be dogs while living successfully in a human world.
In 2018, she left Service Dogs, Inc. to start her own company, Bond Dog Training. Working with her own complicated rescue dog, Percy, led her to specializing in behavior issues like aggression and anxiety.
Currently, Sarah lives in the Texas hill country near Austin with Percy and her lab/German shepherd mix, Clara, a service dog dropout who helps her with other dogs. Bond Dog Training serves the greater Austin area and Sarah focuses on both challenging behavior cases and helping people train their own service dogs.
She works with the city shelter as well as multiple local and state rescues in addition to private clients. She is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant through IAABC, a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge and Skills Assessed. She is passionate about training that is effective and kind, and allows dogs to be dogs while living successfully in a human world.
2024 Board of Directors
Heidi Meinzer,
JD, CPDT-KSA, CNWI
APDT Chair
Heidi Meinzer, JD, CPDT-KSA, CNWI
APDT Chair
Heidi Meinzer, JD, CPDT-KSA, CNWI. Heidi’s background is unique as she is both a practicing attorney and a trainer. She obtained her law degree in 2000, initially serving as a public defender for six years before joining a civil litigation law firm for seven years. While at the firm, Heidi’s practice naturally gravitated to animal law. In 2013, Heidi established her own law firm to focus on animal law and small business and nonprofit law.
Heidi has devoted her efforts to civic activities, including with the Maryland State Bar Association’s Animal Law Section and on various legislative work groups studying companion animal law issues in Virginia. Heidi’s civic work includes serving on the boards of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, the Virginia Federation of Humane Societies, and Homeward Trails Animal Rescue, Inc.
In 2011, Heidi began her work as a dog trainer with the award-winning company Fur-Get Me Not. Since 2013, she has been a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and a Certified Nose Work Instructor. She learned a tremendous amount from her beautiful but reactive German Shepherd, Sophie, and her amazing partner, Boomer, an English lab who achieved his ELT-CH title in 2020. Heidi has continued the lab/Shepherd combination with her current canine companions, Hannah and Arwen.
Heidi has devoted her efforts to civic activities, including with the Maryland State Bar Association’s Animal Law Section and on various legislative work groups studying companion animal law issues in Virginia. Heidi’s civic work includes serving on the boards of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, the Virginia Federation of Humane Societies, and Homeward Trails Animal Rescue, Inc.
In 2011, Heidi began her work as a dog trainer with the award-winning company Fur-Get Me Not. Since 2013, she has been a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and a Certified Nose Work Instructor. She learned a tremendous amount from her beautiful but reactive German Shepherd, Sophie, and her amazing partner, Boomer, an English lab who achieved his ELT-CH title in 2020. Heidi has continued the lab/Shepherd combination with her current canine companions, Hannah and Arwen.
Ines McNeil,
CPDT-KA
APDT Vice-Chair
Ines McNeil, CPDT-KA
APDT Vice-Chair
Ines McNeil, B.S. Biology, CPDT-KA, is a dog training industry expert with over 15 years of experience. She has operated her own dog training businesses in Texas and New York state in addition to working for a multitude of organizations as a professional dog trainer teaching group classes, private in-home lessons, and providing board and train services. She was an early adopter of virtual dog training back in 2014 and helped trainers make the leap to virtual training at the beginning of the pandemic in 2020.
She founded the industry-leading dog training business coaching company, The Modern Dog Trainer, in October 2014, to mentor other trainers on the business side of being a dog trainer. She now has an incredible team that supports her mission and her students which made it a perfect time for her to join the board of the APDT.
Outside of work, Ines is a mom to a talented and curious 3 yr old. She also shares her home and life with her supportive husband, Sean, her dog, Clark (a Cardigan Welsh Corgi,) and a rescue cat named Kiwi ("Kitty" in toddler speak).
She founded the industry-leading dog training business coaching company, The Modern Dog Trainer, in October 2014, to mentor other trainers on the business side of being a dog trainer. She now has an incredible team that supports her mission and her students which made it a perfect time for her to join the board of the APDT.
Outside of work, Ines is a mom to a talented and curious 3 yr old. She also shares her home and life with her supportive husband, Sean, her dog, Clark (a Cardigan Welsh Corgi,) and a rescue cat named Kiwi ("Kitty" in toddler speak).
Sandy Modell,
B.S., CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Sandy Modell, B.S., CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
For over 20 years, Sandy has been training dogs using rewards-based, positive reinforcement methods. She is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), an AKC CGC/CGCA Approved Evaluator, a Mentor Trainer for the Animal Behavior College, a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), a licensed certified Family Paws Parent Educator (FPPE), a member of the Pet Professional Guild (PPG), and on the list of national Truly Dog-Friendly Trainers.
Her mentors include some of our industry’s pioneers of positive training such as, Patty Ruzzo, Leslie Nelson, Sue Sternberg, Pat Miller, Kathy Sdao, Robin Bennett and others.
In June 2017, Sandy opened Alexandria Virginia’s first and only, and now award-winning premier training and learning center for people and their dogs. The Academy offers programs and activities for pet dog owners and their dogs, pet care professionals, and other professional dog trainers.
Sandy’s mission includes empowering her clients by teaching them how to communicate with their dogs, how to reinforce the behaviors that they want, and how to respond to both their dog’s good and the bad behaviors. One of her goals is to teach people how to train their dogs to make incredibly brilliant choices, so that they can both live better, happier, and easier lives together.
In June 2018, Wholistic Hound Academy was voted the Best Dog Trainers in Northern Virginia by Northern Virginia Magazine. Earlier this month, the Academy was selected as a finalist in the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce Best in Business Award in the Small Business category.
Her mentors include some of our industry’s pioneers of positive training such as, Patty Ruzzo, Leslie Nelson, Sue Sternberg, Pat Miller, Kathy Sdao, Robin Bennett and others.
In June 2017, Sandy opened Alexandria Virginia’s first and only, and now award-winning premier training and learning center for people and their dogs. The Academy offers programs and activities for pet dog owners and their dogs, pet care professionals, and other professional dog trainers.
Sandy’s mission includes empowering her clients by teaching them how to communicate with their dogs, how to reinforce the behaviors that they want, and how to respond to both their dog’s good and the bad behaviors. One of her goals is to teach people how to train their dogs to make incredibly brilliant choices, so that they can both live better, happier, and easier lives together.
In June 2018, Wholistic Hound Academy was voted the Best Dog Trainers in Northern Virginia by Northern Virginia Magazine. Earlier this month, the Academy was selected as a finalist in the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce Best in Business Award in the Small Business category.
Heather Mishefske,
CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Heather Mishefske, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Heather opened emBARK and began serving dogs and their owners in 2005, but the journey that led to this labor of love began long before that. In 1983, Heather stepped into a simple 4H project and began sharing life with an English Springer Spaniel. That special relationship became the driving force behind emBARK many years later.
While Heather has a degree in Dietetics from UW-Madison, her love for all things dog conquered her career goals, and in December of 2005, she left the healthcare field to pursue her vision of working with dogs. The business, which has grown in the past 15 years from a single proprietor (Heather) to employing 26 dog care professionals, offers daycare, training classes, grooming, massage, and behavior consulting. It didn’t take long before Heather racked up dog training credentials: CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, Living and Learning with Animals Applied Behavior Analysis course certificate of completion, is a certified level II Canine Sports Massage provider and hosts her own podcast.
She is a member of APDT (premium professional), IAABC, Upper Midwest Flat-Coated Retriever Club vice president, Flat Coated Retriever Club of America and has served as a Learning Theory and Behavior guest lecturer at the University of Wisconsin at Eau Claire and presented a lecture on body language to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.
Heather is a steward of her farm and acreage in west central Wisconsin with her husband and her Flat Coated Retrievers. She is an avid hiker, a certified Master Naturalist, cyclist, mountain biker, backpacker, cross country skier, gardener, reader, and curious observer of the natural world. She has shown and competed with her dogs in multiple venues since the age of 13. Her passion for learning in all things is endless, and there is a huge force within her heart to do good for all creatures.
While Heather has a degree in Dietetics from UW-Madison, her love for all things dog conquered her career goals, and in December of 2005, she left the healthcare field to pursue her vision of working with dogs. The business, which has grown in the past 15 years from a single proprietor (Heather) to employing 26 dog care professionals, offers daycare, training classes, grooming, massage, and behavior consulting. It didn’t take long before Heather racked up dog training credentials: CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, Living and Learning with Animals Applied Behavior Analysis course certificate of completion, is a certified level II Canine Sports Massage provider and hosts her own podcast.
She is a member of APDT (premium professional), IAABC, Upper Midwest Flat-Coated Retriever Club vice president, Flat Coated Retriever Club of America and has served as a Learning Theory and Behavior guest lecturer at the University of Wisconsin at Eau Claire and presented a lecture on body language to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.
Heather is a steward of her farm and acreage in west central Wisconsin with her husband and her Flat Coated Retrievers. She is an avid hiker, a certified Master Naturalist, cyclist, mountain biker, backpacker, cross country skier, gardener, reader, and curious observer of the natural world. She has shown and competed with her dogs in multiple venues since the age of 13. Her passion for learning in all things is endless, and there is a huge force within her heart to do good for all creatures.
Erica Marshall,
CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Erica Marshall, CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Erica is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer through the CCPDT, a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant through the IAABC, and a premium professional member of the APDT. She is also a committee member of the Membership Task Force for the APDT. She is from the East Coast, currently living in the Middle TN area where she is the owner/trainer for Wicked Good Dog Training. She has been working with animals for over 20 years and has worn many hats in the animal field, working in veterinary clinics, boarding kennels and humane societies.
Erica’s passion has always been dog behavior and training. She most enjoys helping the bond develop between owner and dog as they learn to communicate better through positive training and interactions. She especially enjoys working with families and helping them raise their puppies to be excellent family companions.
She has trained and titled her own dogs in Rally Obedience, Agility and Tricks. She currently has 4 wonderful dogs: a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a terrier mix, a Great Pyrenees and a cattle dog mix, 7 cats, 2 teenagers and a very understanding husband.
Erica’s passion has always been dog behavior and training. She most enjoys helping the bond develop between owner and dog as they learn to communicate better through positive training and interactions. She especially enjoys working with families and helping them raise their puppies to be excellent family companions.
She has trained and titled her own dogs in Rally Obedience, Agility and Tricks. She currently has 4 wonderful dogs: a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a terrier mix, a Great Pyrenees and a cattle dog mix, 7 cats, 2 teenagers and a very understanding husband.
Robin Bennett,
CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Robin Bennett, CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Robin Bennett is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, author, speaker, and expert on dogs. She founded one of the largest dog training companies in Virginia and has been using her expertise in “reading dogs” to teach families how to train their pets as well as helping others in the pet care industry keep dogs safe for nearly 30 years.
Robin’s first book, All About Dog Daycare is the number one reference on opening a dog daycare. She is also Co-author of Off-Leash Dog Play… A Complete Guide to Safety and Fun, and an extensive staff training program called, Knowing Dogs, which are the leading staff training resources for dog daycare and boarding facilities.
Robin co-founded The Dog Gurus, the nation’s premier resource for dog care which helps pet care professionals get their lives back by showing them how to create sustainable businesses with teams that truly know dogs. She now hosts pet parent discussions online, teaches virtual Fit Dog Classes online, and encourages families to get fit with their dogs in a AKC Fit Dog Club.
Robin’s first book, All About Dog Daycare is the number one reference on opening a dog daycare. She is also Co-author of Off-Leash Dog Play… A Complete Guide to Safety and Fun, and an extensive staff training program called, Knowing Dogs, which are the leading staff training resources for dog daycare and boarding facilities.
Robin co-founded The Dog Gurus, the nation’s premier resource for dog care which helps pet care professionals get their lives back by showing them how to create sustainable businesses with teams that truly know dogs. She now hosts pet parent discussions online, teaches virtual Fit Dog Classes online, and encourages families to get fit with their dogs in a AKC Fit Dog Club.
Fanna Easter, CPDT-KA, KPA CTP, CSAT, CDBC
APDT Immediate Past Chair
Fanna Easter, CPDT-KA, KPA CTP, CSAT, CDBC
APDT Immediate Past Chair
Fanna has been instructing group classes and in-home behavior consults for more than 29 years with a special focus on separation anxiety. She owns Positive Pooch Dog Training and Behavior, which offers virtual, in-home and off-property consultations in the Dallas, Texas area. Also, Fanna teaches reactive dog classes and offers private consultations with the only veterinarian, that specializes in behavior, in the North Texas area.
Because of her love to write, Fanna has written dog training class curricula and dog trainer courses for large pet box chains and nationally recognized dog training schools. Also, she’s authored several articles for Dogs Naturally, Animal Wellness, Chronicle of the Dog and numerous online magazines and blogs. When not working with clients and their dogs, Fanna volunteers at the Bridge, the only homeless shelter that allows dogs, where Fanna and her co-workers offer group classes and one-on-one training for pet guardians.
Fanna shares her home with Miss Stella Mae (Miniature Bull Terrier), Eli Joseph (Miniature Bull Terrier) and Rick, her “darling hubby.”
Because of her love to write, Fanna has written dog training class curricula and dog trainer courses for large pet box chains and nationally recognized dog training schools. Also, she’s authored several articles for Dogs Naturally, Animal Wellness, Chronicle of the Dog and numerous online magazines and blogs. When not working with clients and their dogs, Fanna volunteers at the Bridge, the only homeless shelter that allows dogs, where Fanna and her co-workers offer group classes and one-on-one training for pet guardians.
Fanna shares her home with Miss Stella Mae (Miniature Bull Terrier), Eli Joseph (Miniature Bull Terrier) and Rick, her “darling hubby.”
Sarah Bond, CDBC,
CSAT, CPDT-KSA
APDT Board Member
Sarah Bond, CDBC, CSAT, CPDT-KSA
APDT Board Member
Sarah Bond, CDBC, CSAT, CPDT-KSA, has been teaching people and dogs since 2008. Starting as a PetSmart trainer, she quickly moved into an area trainer position with the company hiring and training new trainers for local stores. In 2014, she transitioned to training shelter dogs to be service dogs through Service Dogs, Inc., a nonprofit in Texas.
In 2018, she left Service Dogs, Inc. to start her own company, Bond Dog Training. Working with her own complicated rescue dog, Percy, led her to specializing in behavior issues like aggression and anxiety.
Currently, Sarah lives in the Texas hill country near Austin with Percy and her lab/German shepherd mix, Clara, a service dog dropout who helps her with other dogs. Bond Dog Training serves the greater Austin area and Sarah focuses on both challenging behavior cases and helping people train their own service dogs.
She works with the city shelter as well as multiple local and state rescues in addition to private clients. She is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant through IAABC, a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge and Skills Assessed. She is passionate about training that is effective and kind, and allows dogs to be dogs while living successfully in a human world.
In 2018, she left Service Dogs, Inc. to start her own company, Bond Dog Training. Working with her own complicated rescue dog, Percy, led her to specializing in behavior issues like aggression and anxiety.
Currently, Sarah lives in the Texas hill country near Austin with Percy and her lab/German shepherd mix, Clara, a service dog dropout who helps her with other dogs. Bond Dog Training serves the greater Austin area and Sarah focuses on both challenging behavior cases and helping people train their own service dogs.
She works with the city shelter as well as multiple local and state rescues in addition to private clients. She is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant through IAABC, a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge and Skills Assessed. She is passionate about training that is effective and kind, and allows dogs to be dogs while living successfully in a human world.
2024 Board of Directors
Heidi Meinzer,
JD, CPDT-KSA, CNWI
APDT Chair
Heidi Meinzer, JD, CPDT-KSA, CNWI
APDT Chair
Heidi Meinzer, JD, CPDT-KSA, CNWI. Heidi’s background is unique as she is both a practicing attorney and a trainer. She obtained her law degree in 2000, initially serving as a public defender for six years before joining a civil litigation law firm for seven years. While at the firm, Heidi’s practice naturally gravitated to animal law. In 2013, Heidi established her own law firm to focus on animal law and small business and nonprofit law.
Heidi has devoted her efforts to civic activities, including with the Maryland State Bar Association’s Animal Law Section and on various legislative work groups studying companion animal law issues in Virginia. Heidi’s civic work includes serving on the boards of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, the Virginia Federation of Humane Societies, and Homeward Trails Animal Rescue, Inc.
In 2011, Heidi began her work as a dog trainer with the award-winning company Fur-Get Me Not. Since 2013, she has been a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and a Certified Nose Work Instructor. She learned a tremendous amount from her beautiful but reactive German Shepherd, Sophie, and her amazing partner, Boomer, an English lab who achieved his ELT-CH title in 2020. Heidi has continued the lab/Shepherd combination with her current canine companions, Hannah and Arwen.
Heidi has devoted her efforts to civic activities, including with the Maryland State Bar Association’s Animal Law Section and on various legislative work groups studying companion animal law issues in Virginia. Heidi’s civic work includes serving on the boards of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, the Virginia Federation of Humane Societies, and Homeward Trails Animal Rescue, Inc.
In 2011, Heidi began her work as a dog trainer with the award-winning company Fur-Get Me Not. Since 2013, she has been a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and a Certified Nose Work Instructor. She learned a tremendous amount from her beautiful but reactive German Shepherd, Sophie, and her amazing partner, Boomer, an English lab who achieved his ELT-CH title in 2020. Heidi has continued the lab/Shepherd combination with her current canine companions, Hannah and Arwen.
Ines McNeil,
CPDT-KA
APDT Vice-Chair
Ines McNeil, CPDT-KA
APDT Vice-Chair
Ines McNeil, B.S. Biology, CPDT-KA, is a dog training industry expert with over 15 years of experience. She has operated her own dog training businesses in Texas and New York state in addition to working for a multitude of organizations as a professional dog trainer teaching group classes, private in-home lessons, and providing board and train services. She was an early adopter of virtual dog training back in 2014 and helped trainers make the leap to virtual training at the beginning of the pandemic in 2020.
She founded the industry-leading dog training business coaching company, The Modern Dog Trainer, in October 2014, to mentor other trainers on the business side of being a dog trainer. She now has an incredible team that supports her mission and her students which made it a perfect time for her to join the board of the APDT.
Outside of work, Ines is a mom to a talented and curious 3 yr old. She also shares her home and life with her supportive husband, Sean, her dog, Clark (a Cardigan Welsh Corgi,) and a rescue cat named Kiwi ("Kitty" in toddler speak).
She founded the industry-leading dog training business coaching company, The Modern Dog Trainer, in October 2014, to mentor other trainers on the business side of being a dog trainer. She now has an incredible team that supports her mission and her students which made it a perfect time for her to join the board of the APDT.
Outside of work, Ines is a mom to a talented and curious 3 yr old. She also shares her home and life with her supportive husband, Sean, her dog, Clark (a Cardigan Welsh Corgi,) and a rescue cat named Kiwi ("Kitty" in toddler speak).
Sandy Modell,
B.S., CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Sandy Modell, B.S., CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
For over 20 years, Sandy has been training dogs using rewards-based, positive reinforcement methods. She is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), an AKC CGC/CGCA Approved Evaluator, a Mentor Trainer for the Animal Behavior College, a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), a licensed certified Family Paws Parent Educator (FPPE), a member of the Pet Professional Guild (PPG), and on the list of national Truly Dog-Friendly Trainers.
Her mentors include some of our industry’s pioneers of positive training such as, Patty Ruzzo, Leslie Nelson, Sue Sternberg, Pat Miller, Kathy Sdao, Robin Bennett and others.
In June 2017, Sandy opened Alexandria Virginia’s first and only, and now award-winning premier training and learning center for people and their dogs. The Academy offers programs and activities for pet dog owners and their dogs, pet care professionals, and other professional dog trainers.
Sandy’s mission includes empowering her clients by teaching them how to communicate with their dogs, how to reinforce the behaviors that they want, and how to respond to both their dog’s good and the bad behaviors. One of her goals is to teach people how to train their dogs to make incredibly brilliant choices, so that they can both live better, happier, and easier lives together.
In June 2018, Wholistic Hound Academy was voted the Best Dog Trainers in Northern Virginia by Northern Virginia Magazine. Earlier this month, the Academy was selected as a finalist in the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce Best in Business Award in the Small Business category.
Her mentors include some of our industry’s pioneers of positive training such as, Patty Ruzzo, Leslie Nelson, Sue Sternberg, Pat Miller, Kathy Sdao, Robin Bennett and others.
In June 2017, Sandy opened Alexandria Virginia’s first and only, and now award-winning premier training and learning center for people and their dogs. The Academy offers programs and activities for pet dog owners and their dogs, pet care professionals, and other professional dog trainers.
Sandy’s mission includes empowering her clients by teaching them how to communicate with their dogs, how to reinforce the behaviors that they want, and how to respond to both their dog’s good and the bad behaviors. One of her goals is to teach people how to train their dogs to make incredibly brilliant choices, so that they can both live better, happier, and easier lives together.
In June 2018, Wholistic Hound Academy was voted the Best Dog Trainers in Northern Virginia by Northern Virginia Magazine. Earlier this month, the Academy was selected as a finalist in the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce Best in Business Award in the Small Business category.
Heather Mishefske,
CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Heather Mishefske, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Heather opened emBARK and began serving dogs and their owners in 2005, but the journey that led to this labor of love began long before that. In 1983, Heather stepped into a simple 4H project and began sharing life with an English Springer Spaniel. That special relationship became the driving force behind emBARK many years later.
While Heather has a degree in Dietetics from UW-Madison, her love for all things dog conquered her career goals, and in December of 2005, she left the healthcare field to pursue her vision of working with dogs. The business, which has grown in the past 15 years from a single proprietor (Heather) to employing 26 dog care professionals, offers daycare, training classes, grooming, massage, and behavior consulting. It didn’t take long before Heather racked up dog training credentials: CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, Living and Learning with Animals Applied Behavior Analysis course certificate of completion, is a certified level II Canine Sports Massage provider and hosts her own podcast.
She is a member of APDT (premium professional), IAABC, Upper Midwest Flat-Coated Retriever Club vice president, Flat Coated Retriever Club of America and has served as a Learning Theory and Behavior guest lecturer at the University of Wisconsin at Eau Claire and presented a lecture on body language to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.
Heather is a steward of her farm and acreage in west central Wisconsin with her husband and her Flat Coated Retrievers. She is an avid hiker, a certified Master Naturalist, cyclist, mountain biker, backpacker, cross country skier, gardener, reader, and curious observer of the natural world. She has shown and competed with her dogs in multiple venues since the age of 13. Her passion for learning in all things is endless, and there is a huge force within her heart to do good for all creatures.
While Heather has a degree in Dietetics from UW-Madison, her love for all things dog conquered her career goals, and in December of 2005, she left the healthcare field to pursue her vision of working with dogs. The business, which has grown in the past 15 years from a single proprietor (Heather) to employing 26 dog care professionals, offers daycare, training classes, grooming, massage, and behavior consulting. It didn’t take long before Heather racked up dog training credentials: CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, Living and Learning with Animals Applied Behavior Analysis course certificate of completion, is a certified level II Canine Sports Massage provider and hosts her own podcast.
She is a member of APDT (premium professional), IAABC, Upper Midwest Flat-Coated Retriever Club vice president, Flat Coated Retriever Club of America and has served as a Learning Theory and Behavior guest lecturer at the University of Wisconsin at Eau Claire and presented a lecture on body language to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.
Heather is a steward of her farm and acreage in west central Wisconsin with her husband and her Flat Coated Retrievers. She is an avid hiker, a certified Master Naturalist, cyclist, mountain biker, backpacker, cross country skier, gardener, reader, and curious observer of the natural world. She has shown and competed with her dogs in multiple venues since the age of 13. Her passion for learning in all things is endless, and there is a huge force within her heart to do good for all creatures.
Erica Marshall,
CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Erica Marshall, CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Erica is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer through the CCPDT, a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant through the IAABC, and a premium professional member of the APDT. She is also a committee member of the Membership Task Force for the APDT. She is from the East Coast, currently living in the Middle TN area where she is the owner/trainer for Wicked Good Dog Training. She has been working with animals for over 20 years and has worn many hats in the animal field, working in veterinary clinics, boarding kennels and humane societies.
Erica’s passion has always been dog behavior and training. She most enjoys helping the bond develop between owner and dog as they learn to communicate better through positive training and interactions. She especially enjoys working with families and helping them raise their puppies to be excellent family companions.
She has trained and titled her own dogs in Rally Obedience, Agility and Tricks. She currently has 4 wonderful dogs: a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a terrier mix, a Great Pyrenees and a cattle dog mix, 7 cats, 2 teenagers and a very understanding husband.
Erica’s passion has always been dog behavior and training. She most enjoys helping the bond develop between owner and dog as they learn to communicate better through positive training and interactions. She especially enjoys working with families and helping them raise their puppies to be excellent family companions.
She has trained and titled her own dogs in Rally Obedience, Agility and Tricks. She currently has 4 wonderful dogs: a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a terrier mix, a Great Pyrenees and a cattle dog mix, 7 cats, 2 teenagers and a very understanding husband.
Robin Bennett,
CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Robin Bennett, CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Robin Bennett is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, author, speaker, and expert on dogs. She founded one of the largest dog training companies in Virginia and has been using her expertise in “reading dogs” to teach families how to train their pets as well as helping others in the pet care industry keep dogs safe for nearly 30 years.
Robin’s first book, All About Dog Daycare is the number one reference on opening a dog daycare. She is also Co-author of Off-Leash Dog Play… A Complete Guide to Safety and Fun, and an extensive staff training program called, Knowing Dogs, which are the leading staff training resources for dog daycare and boarding facilities.
Robin co-founded The Dog Gurus, the nation’s premier resource for dog care which helps pet care professionals get their lives back by showing them how to create sustainable businesses with teams that truly know dogs. She now hosts pet parent discussions online, teaches virtual Fit Dog Classes online, and encourages families to get fit with their dogs in a AKC Fit Dog Club.
Robin’s first book, All About Dog Daycare is the number one reference on opening a dog daycare. She is also Co-author of Off-Leash Dog Play… A Complete Guide to Safety and Fun, and an extensive staff training program called, Knowing Dogs, which are the leading staff training resources for dog daycare and boarding facilities.
Robin co-founded The Dog Gurus, the nation’s premier resource for dog care which helps pet care professionals get their lives back by showing them how to create sustainable businesses with teams that truly know dogs. She now hosts pet parent discussions online, teaches virtual Fit Dog Classes online, and encourages families to get fit with their dogs in a AKC Fit Dog Club.
Fanna Easter, CPDT-KA, KPA CTP, CSAT, CDBC
APDT Immediate Past Chair
Fanna Easter, CPDT-KA, KPA CTP, CSAT, CDBC
APDT Immediate Past Chair
Fanna has been instructing group classes and in-home behavior consults for more than 29 years with a special focus on separation anxiety. She owns Positive Pooch Dog Training and Behavior, which offers virtual, in-home and off-property consultations in the Dallas, Texas area. Also, Fanna teaches reactive dog classes and offers private consultations with the only veterinarian, that specializes in behavior, in the North Texas area.
Because of her love to write, Fanna has written dog training class curricula and dog trainer courses for large pet box chains and nationally recognized dog training schools. Also, she’s authored several articles for Dogs Naturally, Animal Wellness, Chronicle of the Dog and numerous online magazines and blogs. When not working with clients and their dogs, Fanna volunteers at the Bridge, the only homeless shelter that allows dogs, where Fanna and her co-workers offer group classes and one-on-one training for pet guardians.
Fanna shares her home with Miss Stella Mae (Miniature Bull Terrier), Eli Joseph (Miniature Bull Terrier) and Rick, her “darling hubby.”
Because of her love to write, Fanna has written dog training class curricula and dog trainer courses for large pet box chains and nationally recognized dog training schools. Also, she’s authored several articles for Dogs Naturally, Animal Wellness, Chronicle of the Dog and numerous online magazines and blogs. When not working with clients and their dogs, Fanna volunteers at the Bridge, the only homeless shelter that allows dogs, where Fanna and her co-workers offer group classes and one-on-one training for pet guardians.
Fanna shares her home with Miss Stella Mae (Miniature Bull Terrier), Eli Joseph (Miniature Bull Terrier) and Rick, her “darling hubby.”
Sarah Bond, CDBC, CSAT, CPDT-KSA
APDT Board Member
Sarah Bond, CDBC, CSAT, CPDT-KSA
APDT Board Member
Sarah Bond, CDBC, CSAT, CPDT-KSA, has been teaching people and dogs since 2008. Starting as a PetSmart trainer, she quickly moved into an area trainer position with the company hiring and training new trainers for local stores. In 2014, she transitioned to training shelter dogs to be service dogs through Service Dogs, Inc., a nonprofit in Texas.
In 2018, she left Service Dogs, Inc. to start her own company, Bond Dog Training. Working with her own complicated rescue dog, Percy, led her to specializing in behavior issues like aggression and anxiety.
Currently, Sarah lives in the Texas hill country near Austin with Percy and her lab/German shepherd mix, Clara, a service dog dropout who helps her with other dogs. Bond Dog Training serves the greater Austin area and Sarah focuses on both challenging behavior cases and helping people train their own service dogs.
She works with the city shelter as well as multiple local and state rescues in addition to private clients. She is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant through IAABC, a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge and Skills Assessed. She is passionate about training that is effective and kind, and allows dogs to be dogs while living successfully in a human world.
In 2018, she left Service Dogs, Inc. to start her own company, Bond Dog Training. Working with her own complicated rescue dog, Percy, led her to specializing in behavior issues like aggression and anxiety.
Currently, Sarah lives in the Texas hill country near Austin with Percy and her lab/German shepherd mix, Clara, a service dog dropout who helps her with other dogs. Bond Dog Training serves the greater Austin area and Sarah focuses on both challenging behavior cases and helping people train their own service dogs.
She works with the city shelter as well as multiple local and state rescues in addition to private clients. She is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant through IAABC, a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge and Skills Assessed. She is passionate about training that is effective and kind, and allows dogs to be dogs while living successfully in a human world.
2024 Board of Directors
Heidi Meinzer,
JD, CPDT-KSA, CNWI
APDT Chair
Heidi Meinzer, JD, CPDT-KSA, CNWI
APDT Chair
Heidi Meinzer, JD, CPDT-KSA, CNWI. Heidi’s background is unique as she is both a practicing attorney and a trainer. She obtained her law degree in 2000, initially serving as a public defender for six years before joining a civil litigation law firm for seven years. While at the firm, Heidi’s practice naturally gravitated to animal law. In 2013, Heidi established her own law firm to focus on animal law and small business and nonprofit law.
Heidi has devoted her efforts to civic activities, including with the Maryland State Bar Association’s Animal Law Section and on various legislative work groups studying companion animal law issues in Virginia. Heidi’s civic work includes serving on the boards of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, the Virginia Federation of Humane Societies, and Homeward Trails Animal Rescue, Inc.
In 2011, Heidi began her work as a dog trainer with the award-winning company Fur-Get Me Not. Since 2013, she has been a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and a Certified Nose Work Instructor. She learned a tremendous amount from her beautiful but reactive German Shepherd, Sophie, and her amazing partner, Boomer, an English lab who achieved his ELT-CH title in 2020. Heidi has continued the lab/Shepherd combination with her current canine companions, Hannah and Arwen.
Heidi has devoted her efforts to civic activities, including with the Maryland State Bar Association’s Animal Law Section and on various legislative work groups studying companion animal law issues in Virginia. Heidi’s civic work includes serving on the boards of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, the Virginia Federation of Humane Societies, and Homeward Trails Animal Rescue, Inc.
In 2011, Heidi began her work as a dog trainer with the award-winning company Fur-Get Me Not. Since 2013, she has been a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and a Certified Nose Work Instructor. She learned a tremendous amount from her beautiful but reactive German Shepherd, Sophie, and her amazing partner, Boomer, an English lab who achieved his ELT-CH title in 2020. Heidi has continued the lab/Shepherd combination with her current canine companions, Hannah and Arwen.
Ines McNeil,
CPDT-KA
APDT Vice-Chair
Ines McNeil, CPDT-KA
APDT Vice-Chair
Ines McNeil, B.S. Biology, CPDT-KA, is a dog training industry expert with over 15 years of experience. She has operated her own dog training businesses in Texas and New York state in addition to working for a multitude of organizations as a professional dog trainer teaching group classes, private in-home lessons, and providing board and train services. She was an early adopter of virtual dog training back in 2014 and helped trainers make the leap to virtual training at the beginning of the pandemic in 2020.
She founded the industry-leading dog training business coaching company, The Modern Dog Trainer, in October 2014, to mentor other trainers on the business side of being a dog trainer. She now has an incredible team that supports her mission and her students which made it a perfect time for her to join the board of the APDT.
Outside of work, Ines is a mom to a talented and curious 3 yr old. She also shares her home and life with her supportive husband, Sean, her dog, Clark (a Cardigan Welsh Corgi,) and a rescue cat named Kiwi ("Kitty" in toddler speak).
She founded the industry-leading dog training business coaching company, The Modern Dog Trainer, in October 2014, to mentor other trainers on the business side of being a dog trainer. She now has an incredible team that supports her mission and her students which made it a perfect time for her to join the board of the APDT.
Outside of work, Ines is a mom to a talented and curious 3 yr old. She also shares her home and life with her supportive husband, Sean, her dog, Clark (a Cardigan Welsh Corgi,) and a rescue cat named Kiwi ("Kitty" in toddler speak).
Sandy Modell,
B.S., CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Sandy Modell, B.S., CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
For over 20 years, Sandy has been training dogs using rewards-based, positive reinforcement methods. She is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), an AKC CGC/CGCA Approved Evaluator, a Mentor Trainer for the Animal Behavior College, a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), a licensed certified Family Paws Parent Educator (FPPE), a member of the Pet Professional Guild (PPG), and on the list of national Truly Dog-Friendly Trainers.
Her mentors include some of our industry’s pioneers of positive training such as, Patty Ruzzo, Leslie Nelson, Sue Sternberg, Pat Miller, Kathy Sdao, Robin Bennett and others.
In June 2017, Sandy opened Alexandria Virginia’s first and only, and now award-winning premier training and learning center for people and their dogs. The Academy offers programs and activities for pet dog owners and their dogs, pet care professionals, and other professional dog trainers.
Sandy’s mission includes empowering her clients by teaching them how to communicate with their dogs, how to reinforce the behaviors that they want, and how to respond to both their dog’s good and the bad behaviors. One of her goals is to teach people how to train their dogs to make incredibly brilliant choices, so that they can both live better, happier, and easier lives together.
In June 2018, Wholistic Hound Academy was voted the Best Dog Trainers in Northern Virginia by Northern Virginia Magazine. Earlier this month, the Academy was selected as a finalist in the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce Best in Business Award in the Small Business category.
Her mentors include some of our industry’s pioneers of positive training such as, Patty Ruzzo, Leslie Nelson, Sue Sternberg, Pat Miller, Kathy Sdao, Robin Bennett and others.
In June 2017, Sandy opened Alexandria Virginia’s first and only, and now award-winning premier training and learning center for people and their dogs. The Academy offers programs and activities for pet dog owners and their dogs, pet care professionals, and other professional dog trainers.
Sandy’s mission includes empowering her clients by teaching them how to communicate with their dogs, how to reinforce the behaviors that they want, and how to respond to both their dog’s good and the bad behaviors. One of her goals is to teach people how to train their dogs to make incredibly brilliant choices, so that they can both live better, happier, and easier lives together.
In June 2018, Wholistic Hound Academy was voted the Best Dog Trainers in Northern Virginia by Northern Virginia Magazine. Earlier this month, the Academy was selected as a finalist in the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce Best in Business Award in the Small Business category.
Heather Mishefske,
CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Heather Mishefske, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Heather opened emBARK and began serving dogs and their owners in 2005, but the journey that led to this labor of love began long before that. In 1983, Heather stepped into a simple 4H project and began sharing life with an English Springer Spaniel. That special relationship became the driving force behind emBARK many years later.
While Heather has a degree in Dietetics from UW-Madison, her love for all things dog conquered her career goals, and in December of 2005, she left the healthcare field to pursue her vision of working with dogs. The business, which has grown in the past 15 years from a single proprietor (Heather) to employing 26 dog care professionals, offers daycare, training classes, grooming, massage, and behavior consulting. It didn’t take long before Heather racked up dog training credentials: CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, Living and Learning with Animals Applied Behavior Analysis course certificate of completion, is a certified level II Canine Sports Massage provider and hosts her own podcast.
She is a member of APDT (premium professional), IAABC, Upper Midwest Flat-Coated Retriever Club vice president, Flat Coated Retriever Club of America and has served as a Learning Theory and Behavior guest lecturer at the University of Wisconsin at Eau Claire and presented a lecture on body language to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.
Heather is a steward of her farm and acreage in west central Wisconsin with her husband and her Flat Coated Retrievers. She is an avid hiker, a certified Master Naturalist, cyclist, mountain biker, backpacker, cross country skier, gardener, reader, and curious observer of the natural world. She has shown and competed with her dogs in multiple venues since the age of 13. Her passion for learning in all things is endless, and there is a huge force within her heart to do good for all creatures.
While Heather has a degree in Dietetics from UW-Madison, her love for all things dog conquered her career goals, and in December of 2005, she left the healthcare field to pursue her vision of working with dogs. The business, which has grown in the past 15 years from a single proprietor (Heather) to employing 26 dog care professionals, offers daycare, training classes, grooming, massage, and behavior consulting. It didn’t take long before Heather racked up dog training credentials: CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, Living and Learning with Animals Applied Behavior Analysis course certificate of completion, is a certified level II Canine Sports Massage provider and hosts her own podcast.
She is a member of APDT (premium professional), IAABC, Upper Midwest Flat-Coated Retriever Club vice president, Flat Coated Retriever Club of America and has served as a Learning Theory and Behavior guest lecturer at the University of Wisconsin at Eau Claire and presented a lecture on body language to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.
Heather is a steward of her farm and acreage in west central Wisconsin with her husband and her Flat Coated Retrievers. She is an avid hiker, a certified Master Naturalist, cyclist, mountain biker, backpacker, cross country skier, gardener, reader, and curious observer of the natural world. She has shown and competed with her dogs in multiple venues since the age of 13. Her passion for learning in all things is endless, and there is a huge force within her heart to do good for all creatures.
Erica Marshall,
CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Erica Marshall, CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Erica is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer through the CCPDT, a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant through the IAABC, and a premium professional member of the APDT. She is also a committee member of the Membership Task Force for the APDT. She is from the East Coast, currently living in the Middle TN area where she is the owner/trainer for Wicked Good Dog Training. She has been working with animals for over 20 years and has worn many hats in the animal field, working in veterinary clinics, boarding kennels and humane societies.
Erica’s passion has always been dog behavior and training. She most enjoys helping the bond develop between owner and dog as they learn to communicate better through positive training and interactions. She especially enjoys working with families and helping them raise their puppies to be excellent family companions.
She has trained and titled her own dogs in Rally Obedience, Agility and Tricks. She currently has 4 wonderful dogs: a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a terrier mix, a Great Pyrenees and a cattle dog mix, 7 cats, 2 teenagers and a very understanding husband.
Erica’s passion has always been dog behavior and training. She most enjoys helping the bond develop between owner and dog as they learn to communicate better through positive training and interactions. She especially enjoys working with families and helping them raise their puppies to be excellent family companions.
She has trained and titled her own dogs in Rally Obedience, Agility and Tricks. She currently has 4 wonderful dogs: a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a terrier mix, a Great Pyrenees and a cattle dog mix, 7 cats, 2 teenagers and a very understanding husband.
Robin Bennett,
CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Robin Bennett, CPDT-KA
APDT Board Member
Robin Bennett is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, author, speaker, and expert on dogs. She founded one of the largest dog training companies in Virginia and has been using her expertise in “reading dogs” to teach families how to train their pets as well as helping others in the pet care industry keep dogs safe for nearly 30 years.
Robin’s first book, All About Dog Daycare is the number one reference on opening a dog daycare. She is also Co-author of Off-Leash Dog Play… A Complete Guide to Safety and Fun, and an extensive staff training program called, Knowing Dogs, which are the leading staff training resources for dog daycare and boarding facilities.
Robin co-founded The Dog Gurus, the nation’s premier resource for dog care which helps pet care professionals get their lives back by showing them how to create sustainable businesses with teams that truly know dogs. She now hosts pet parent discussions online, teaches virtual Fit Dog Classes online, and encourages families to get fit with their dogs in a AKC Fit Dog Club.
Robin’s first book, All About Dog Daycare is the number one reference on opening a dog daycare. She is also Co-author of Off-Leash Dog Play… A Complete Guide to Safety and Fun, and an extensive staff training program called, Knowing Dogs, which are the leading staff training resources for dog daycare and boarding facilities.
Robin co-founded The Dog Gurus, the nation’s premier resource for dog care which helps pet care professionals get their lives back by showing them how to create sustainable businesses with teams that truly know dogs. She now hosts pet parent discussions online, teaches virtual Fit Dog Classes online, and encourages families to get fit with their dogs in a AKC Fit Dog Club.
Fanna Easter, CPDT-KA, KPA CTP, CSAT, CDBC
APDT Immediate Past Chair
Fanna Easter, CPDT-KA, KPA CTP, CSAT, CDBC
APDT Immediate Past Chair
Fanna has been instructing group classes and in-home behavior consults for more than 29 years with a special focus on separation anxiety. She owns Positive Pooch Dog Training and Behavior, which offers virtual, in-home and off-property consultations in the Dallas, Texas area. Also, Fanna teaches reactive dog classes and offers private consultations with the only veterinarian, that specializes in behavior, in the North Texas area.
Because of her love to write, Fanna has written dog training class curricula and dog trainer courses for large pet box chains and nationally recognized dog training schools. Also, she’s authored several articles for Dogs Naturally, Animal Wellness, Chronicle of the Dog and numerous online magazines and blogs. When not working with clients and their dogs, Fanna volunteers at the Bridge, the only homeless shelter that allows dogs, where Fanna and her co-workers offer group classes and one-on-one training for pet guardians.
Fanna shares her home with Miss Stella Mae (Miniature Bull Terrier), Eli Joseph (Miniature Bull Terrier) and Rick, her “darling hubby.”
Because of her love to write, Fanna has written dog training class curricula and dog trainer courses for large pet box chains and nationally recognized dog training schools. Also, she’s authored several articles for Dogs Naturally, Animal Wellness, Chronicle of the Dog and numerous online magazines and blogs. When not working with clients and their dogs, Fanna volunteers at the Bridge, the only homeless shelter that allows dogs, where Fanna and her co-workers offer group classes and one-on-one training for pet guardians.
Fanna shares her home with Miss Stella Mae (Miniature Bull Terrier), Eli Joseph (Miniature Bull Terrier) and Rick, her “darling hubby.”
Sarah Bond, CDBC,
CSAT, CPDT-KSA
APDT Board Member
Sarah Bond, CDBC, CSAT, CPDT-KSA
APDT Board Member
Sarah Bond, CDBC, CSAT, CPDT-KSA, has been teaching people and dogs since 2008. Starting as a PetSmart trainer, she quickly moved into an area trainer position with the company hiring and training new trainers for local stores. In 2014, she transitioned to training shelter dogs to be service dogs through Service Dogs, Inc., a nonprofit in Texas.
In 2018, she left Service Dogs, Inc. to start her own company, Bond Dog Training. Working with her own complicated rescue dog, Percy, led her to specializing in behavior issues like aggression and anxiety.
Currently, Sarah lives in the Texas hill country near Austin with Percy and her lab/German shepherd mix, Clara, a service dog dropout who helps her with other dogs. Bond Dog Training serves the greater Austin area and Sarah focuses on both challenging behavior cases and helping people train their own service dogs.
She works with the city shelter as well as multiple local and state rescues in addition to private clients. She is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant through IAABC, a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge and Skills Assessed. She is passionate about training that is effective and kind, and allows dogs to be dogs while living successfully in a human world.
In 2018, she left Service Dogs, Inc. to start her own company, Bond Dog Training. Working with her own complicated rescue dog, Percy, led her to specializing in behavior issues like aggression and anxiety.
Currently, Sarah lives in the Texas hill country near Austin with Percy and her lab/German shepherd mix, Clara, a service dog dropout who helps her with other dogs. Bond Dog Training serves the greater Austin area and Sarah focuses on both challenging behavior cases and helping people train their own service dogs.
She works with the city shelter as well as multiple local and state rescues in addition to private clients. She is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant through IAABC, a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge and Skills Assessed. She is passionate about training that is effective and kind, and allows dogs to be dogs while living successfully in a human world.
Meet the APDT staff.
Matt Varney
Executive Director
Matt Varney
Executive Director
Matt has a passion for making a positive impact on communities. He came to APDT’s Executive Director role in 2023 after leading nonprofits and membership associations for over 12 years. Before APDT, he acted as a Director at Entrepreneurs' Organization, supporting a global community of 18,000 entrepreneurs in expanding leadership and personal development. Prior to that Matt was a Director with the International Coaching Federation, supporting the advancement of professional coaching around the world.
Matt holds an MSc in Global Economics, a BA in International/Global Studies, with certification and training in Project Management, Agile Leadership and Organizational Systems Relationship Coaching.
Matt holds an MSc in Global Economics, a BA in International/Global Studies, with certification and training in Project Management, Agile Leadership and Organizational Systems Relationship Coaching.
Tricia Louque
Director of Marketing and Communications
Tricia Louque
Director of Marketing and Communications
With a Master’s Degree in Business Administration and over 15 years of experience in marketing and communications, Tricia Louque is a marketing and brand strategist dedicated to driving business growth and organizational success. As the Director of Marketing and Communications for the Association for Professional Dog Training International (APDT International), she is responsible for crafting and maintaining the organization's voice through strategic marketing campaigns and communications.
Tricia excels in developing and executing effective marketing plans, managing creative projects, and ensuring brand integrity across all platforms. She plays a pivotal role in communicating with APDT members through various channels and targeted member communications. Her efforts are integral in keeping the APDT International community informed, engaged, and aligned with the organization’s mission and objectives.
Her expertise extends to graphic design allowing her to produce compelling visuals for various media. Tricia is passionate about team development, leadership coaching, and fostering a collaborative organizational culture. Her mission is to advance and contribute to the growth and evolution of the dog training industry.
Tricia is a passionate animal lover. She has three dogs, Callie (blue heeler), Charlie (standard poodle), and Lily (lab/border collie). She also has three rescue horses, two ponies, two pigs and a flock of chickens on her farm.
Tricia excels in developing and executing effective marketing plans, managing creative projects, and ensuring brand integrity across all platforms. She plays a pivotal role in communicating with APDT members through various channels and targeted member communications. Her efforts are integral in keeping the APDT International community informed, engaged, and aligned with the organization’s mission and objectives.
Her expertise extends to graphic design allowing her to produce compelling visuals for various media. Tricia is passionate about team development, leadership coaching, and fostering a collaborative organizational culture. Her mission is to advance and contribute to the growth and evolution of the dog training industry.
Tricia is a passionate animal lover. She has three dogs, Callie (blue heeler), Charlie (standard poodle), and Lily (lab/border collie). She also has three rescue horses, two ponies, two pigs and a flock of chickens on her farm.
Nita Briscoe
Exhibitor Relations Manager
Nita Briscoe
Exhibitor Relations Manager
Who knew there was a job that required you to talk about dog toys, treats and enrichment!
Nita joined the APDT pack in 2016 and has all the conference t shirts and hoodies to show for it.
She loves to find creative ways to connect trainers to sponsors and exhibitors onsite at our annual conference.
Nita is owned and loved at home by her rescue dogs, Tyson (Pit/Lab mix) and Tank (Bulldog/Boxer mix.) She is a foster Mom and volunteer for an animal rescue based in Cincinnati,
OH. Emails with pictures of dogs/pets attached are her favorite correspondence.
Nita joined the APDT pack in 2016 and has all the conference t shirts and hoodies to show for it.
She loves to find creative ways to connect trainers to sponsors and exhibitors onsite at our annual conference.
Nita is owned and loved at home by her rescue dogs, Tyson (Pit/Lab mix) and Tank (Bulldog/Boxer mix.) She is a foster Mom and volunteer for an animal rescue based in Cincinnati,
OH. Emails with pictures of dogs/pets attached are her favorite correspondence.
Devon Hubbard
Chronicle Of The Dog Editor
Devon Hubbard
Chronicle Of The Dog Editor
Upon graduation, Devon worked at newspapers in Kentucky and public relations at Kentucky State University, before heading south to Florida as a public relations coordinator for The Miami Herald. After getting SCUBA certified and married, the newlyweds headed to Gilroy, California, where Devon was editor of a monthly chamber of commerce newsletter.
Her next career move was when she and her late husband purchased a weekly newspaper in Belgrade, Montana. After their son, Cameron, graduated from high school, she and her son moved closer to her family in Virginia, where Devon covered the military for a weekly newspaper owned by Military Newspapers of Virginia. She then became an assistant editor for The Virginian-Pilot's Suburban Team, and editor of its community twice-weekly publication, the Chesapeake Clipper.
After moving to northern Virginia in 2013, Devon was an editor for the Air Force Times before transitioning back into public relations producing articles, blogs and feature stories for the Naval History and Heritage Command located at the Washington Navy Yard in Washington, D.C. After 35 years away, Devon returned to Kentucky in 2016 to be closer to her mother in Winchester.
Devon currently shares her home with a rescued flame-point Siamese cat, Thorn, and her sixth and seventh Golden Retrievers, Golden/Brittany cross Evie, a rescue from Golden Retriever Rescue and Adoption of Needy Dogs (GRRAND) based out of Louisville, and wild child Poppy, a red field Golden Retriever, as well as a very overworked Shark robot vacuum named Bruce.
Her next career move was when she and her late husband purchased a weekly newspaper in Belgrade, Montana. After their son, Cameron, graduated from high school, she and her son moved closer to her family in Virginia, where Devon covered the military for a weekly newspaper owned by Military Newspapers of Virginia. She then became an assistant editor for The Virginian-Pilot's Suburban Team, and editor of its community twice-weekly publication, the Chesapeake Clipper.
After moving to northern Virginia in 2013, Devon was an editor for the Air Force Times before transitioning back into public relations producing articles, blogs and feature stories for the Naval History and Heritage Command located at the Washington Navy Yard in Washington, D.C. After 35 years away, Devon returned to Kentucky in 2016 to be closer to her mother in Winchester.
Devon currently shares her home with a rescued flame-point Siamese cat, Thorn, and her sixth and seventh Golden Retrievers, Golden/Brittany cross Evie, a rescue from Golden Retriever Rescue and Adoption of Needy Dogs (GRRAND) based out of Louisville, and wild child Poppy, a red field Golden Retriever, as well as a very overworked Shark robot vacuum named Bruce.
Abby Davis
Events Manager
Abby Davis
Events Manager
Jennifer Franco
Director Of Educational Programs
Jennifer Franco
Director Of Educational Programs
Jennifer holds a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Business Administration with a minor in Aviation from Dowling College, New York. She is a certified Virtual Events Planner and holds a Kentucky Teaching Certification. Jennifer has a decade of experience in association management, project management, instructional design, strategic planning, and credentialing compliance.
As the Education Director for the Association for Professional Dog Training International since May 2015, Jennifer has significantly contributed to the association by creating inclusive and effective learning experiences tailored for online delivery, ensuring they cater to diverse learning styles. Her duties include finding speakers for APDT’s annual educational conferences, scheduling sessions, and establishing mentor programs between veterans in the animal industry with those seeking guidance.
Jennifer has a love for animals, She lives on a farm with her horses, chickens and hunting terrier, Wyn, who competes in barn hunting.
As the Education Director for the Association for Professional Dog Training International since May 2015, Jennifer has significantly contributed to the association by creating inclusive and effective learning experiences tailored for online delivery, ensuring they cater to diverse learning styles. Her duties include finding speakers for APDT’s annual educational conferences, scheduling sessions, and establishing mentor programs between veterans in the animal industry with those seeking guidance.
Jennifer has a love for animals, She lives on a farm with her horses, chickens and hunting terrier, Wyn, who competes in barn hunting.
Meet the APDT staff.
Matt Varney
Executive Director
Matt Varney
Executive Director
Matt has a passion for making a positive impact on communities. He came to APDT’s Executive Director role in 2023 after leading nonprofits and membership associations for over 12 years. Before APDT, he acted as a Director at Entrepreneurs' Organization, supporting a global community of 18,000 entrepreneurs in expanding leadership and personal development. Prior to that Matt was a Director with the International Coaching Federation, supporting the advancement of professional coaching around the world.
Matt holds an MSc in Global Economics, a BA in International/Global Studies, with certification and training in Project Management, Agile Leadership and Organizational Systems Relationship Coaching.
Matt holds an MSc in Global Economics, a BA in International/Global Studies, with certification and training in Project Management, Agile Leadership and Organizational Systems Relationship Coaching.
Tricia Louque
Director of Marketing and Communications
Tricia Louque
Director of Marketing and Communications
With a Master’s Degree in Business Administration and over 15 years of experience in marketing and communications, Tricia Louque is a marketing and brand strategist dedicated to driving business growth and organizational success. As the Director of Marketing and Communications for the Association for Professional Dog Training International (APDT International), she is responsible for crafting and maintaining the organization's voice through strategic marketing campaigns and communications.
Tricia excels in developing and executing effective marketing plans, managing creative projects, and ensuring brand integrity across all platforms. She plays a pivotal role in communicating with APDT members through various channels and targeted member communications. Her efforts are integral in keeping the APDT International community informed, engaged, and aligned with the organization’s mission and objectives.
Her expertise extends to graphic design allowing her to produce compelling visuals for various media. Tricia is passionate about team development, leadership coaching, and fostering a collaborative organizational culture. Her mission is to advance and contribute to the growth and evolution of the dog training industry.
Tricia is a passionate animal lover. She has three dogs, Callie (blue heeler), Charlie (standard poodle), and Lily (lab/border collie). She also has three rescue horses, two ponies, two pigs and a flock of chickens on her farm.
Tricia excels in developing and executing effective marketing plans, managing creative projects, and ensuring brand integrity across all platforms. She plays a pivotal role in communicating with APDT members through various channels and targeted member communications. Her efforts are integral in keeping the APDT International community informed, engaged, and aligned with the organization’s mission and objectives.
Her expertise extends to graphic design allowing her to produce compelling visuals for various media. Tricia is passionate about team development, leadership coaching, and fostering a collaborative organizational culture. Her mission is to advance and contribute to the growth and evolution of the dog training industry.
Tricia is a passionate animal lover. She has three dogs, Callie (blue heeler), Charlie (standard poodle), and Lily (lab/border collie). She also has three rescue horses, two ponies, two pigs and a flock of chickens on her farm.
Nita Briscoe
Exhibitor Relations Manager
Nita Briscoe
Exhibitor Relations Manager
Who knew there was a job that required you to talk about dog toys, treats and enrichment!
Nita joined the APDT pack in 2016 and has all the conference t shirts and hoodies to show for it.
She loves to find creative ways to connect trainers to sponsors and exhibitors onsite at our annual conference.
Nita is owned and loved at home by her rescue dogs, Tyson (Pit/Lab mix) and Tank (Bulldog/Boxer mix.) She is a foster Mom and volunteer for an animal rescue based in Cincinnati,
OH. Emails with pictures of dogs/pets attached are her favorite correspondence.
Nita joined the APDT pack in 2016 and has all the conference t shirts and hoodies to show for it.
She loves to find creative ways to connect trainers to sponsors and exhibitors onsite at our annual conference.
Nita is owned and loved at home by her rescue dogs, Tyson (Pit/Lab mix) and Tank (Bulldog/Boxer mix.) She is a foster Mom and volunteer for an animal rescue based in Cincinnati,
OH. Emails with pictures of dogs/pets attached are her favorite correspondence.
Devon Hubbard
Chronicle Of The Dog Editor
Devon Hubbard
Chronicle Of The Dog Editor
Upon graduation, Devon worked at newspapers in Kentucky and public relations at Kentucky State University, before heading south to Florida as a public relations coordinator for The Miami Herald. After getting SCUBA certified and married, the newlyweds headed to Gilroy, California, where Devon was editor of a monthly chamber of commerce newsletter.
Her next career move was when she and her late husband purchased a weekly newspaper in Belgrade, Montana. After their son, Cameron, graduated from high school, she and her son moved closer to her family in Virginia, where Devon covered the military for a weekly newspaper owned by Military Newspapers of Virginia. She then became an assistant editor for The Virginian-Pilot's Suburban Team, and editor of its community twice-weekly publication, the Chesapeake Clipper.
After moving to northern Virginia in 2013, Devon was an editor for the Air Force Times before transitioning back into public relations producing articles, blogs and feature stories for the Naval History and Heritage Command located at the Washington Navy Yard in Washington, D.C. After 35 years away, Devon returned to Kentucky in 2016 to be closer to her mother in Winchester.
Devon currently shares her home with a rescued flame-point Siamese cat, Thorn, and her sixth and seventh Golden Retrievers, Golden/Brittany cross Evie, a rescue from Golden Retriever Rescue and Adoption of Needy Dogs (GRRAND) based out of Louisville, and wild child Poppy, a red field Golden Retriever, as well as a very overworked Shark robot vacuum named Bruce.
Her next career move was when she and her late husband purchased a weekly newspaper in Belgrade, Montana. After their son, Cameron, graduated from high school, she and her son moved closer to her family in Virginia, where Devon covered the military for a weekly newspaper owned by Military Newspapers of Virginia. She then became an assistant editor for The Virginian-Pilot's Suburban Team, and editor of its community twice-weekly publication, the Chesapeake Clipper.
After moving to northern Virginia in 2013, Devon was an editor for the Air Force Times before transitioning back into public relations producing articles, blogs and feature stories for the Naval History and Heritage Command located at the Washington Navy Yard in Washington, D.C. After 35 years away, Devon returned to Kentucky in 2016 to be closer to her mother in Winchester.
Devon currently shares her home with a rescued flame-point Siamese cat, Thorn, and her sixth and seventh Golden Retrievers, Golden/Brittany cross Evie, a rescue from Golden Retriever Rescue and Adoption of Needy Dogs (GRRAND) based out of Louisville, and wild child Poppy, a red field Golden Retriever, as well as a very overworked Shark robot vacuum named Bruce.
Abby Davis
Events Manager
Abby Davis
Events ManagerJennifer Franco
Director Of Educational Programs
Jennifer Franco
Director Of Educational Programs
Jennifer holds a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Business Administration with a minor in Aviation from Dowling College, New York. She is a certified Virtual Events Planner and holds a Kentucky Teaching Certification. Jennifer has a decade of experience in association management, project management, instructional design, strategic planning, and credentialing compliance.
As the Education Director for the Association for Professional Dog Training International since May 2015, Jennifer has significantly contributed to the association by creating inclusive and effective learning experiences tailored for online delivery, ensuring they cater to diverse learning styles. Her duties include finding speakers for APDT’s annual educational conferences, scheduling sessions, and establishing mentor programs between veterans in the animal industry with those seeking guidance.
Jennifer has a love for animals, She lives on a farm with her horses, chickens and hunting terrier, Wyn, who competes in barn hunting.
As the Education Director for the Association for Professional Dog Training International since May 2015, Jennifer has significantly contributed to the association by creating inclusive and effective learning experiences tailored for online delivery, ensuring they cater to diverse learning styles. Her duties include finding speakers for APDT’s annual educational conferences, scheduling sessions, and establishing mentor programs between veterans in the animal industry with those seeking guidance.
Jennifer has a love for animals, She lives on a farm with her horses, chickens and hunting terrier, Wyn, who competes in barn hunting.
Meet the APDT staff.
Matt Varney
Executive Director
Matt Varney
Executive Director
Matt has a passion for making a positive impact on communities. He came to APDT’s Executive Director role in 2023 after leading nonprofits and membership associations for over 12 years. Before APDT, he acted as a Director at Entrepreneurs' Organization, supporting a global community of 18,000 entrepreneurs in expanding leadership and personal development. Prior to that Matt was a Director with the International Coaching Federation, supporting the advancement of professional coaching around the world.
Matt holds an MSc in Global Economics, a BA in International/Global Studies, with certification and training in Project Management, Agile Leadership and Organizational Systems Relationship Coaching.
Matt holds an MSc in Global Economics, a BA in International/Global Studies, with certification and training in Project Management, Agile Leadership and Organizational Systems Relationship Coaching.
Tricia Louque
Director of Marketing and Communications
Tricia Louque
Director of Marketing and Communications
With a Master’s Degree in Business Administration and over 15 years of experience in marketing and communications, Tricia Louque is a marketing and brand strategist dedicated to driving business growth and organizational success. As the Director of Marketing and Communications for the Association for Professional Dog Training International (APDT International), she is responsible for crafting and maintaining the organization's voice through strategic marketing campaigns and communications.
Tricia excels in developing and executing effective marketing plans, managing creative projects, and ensuring brand integrity across all platforms. She plays a pivotal role in communicating with APDT members through various channels and targeted member communications. Her efforts are integral in keeping the APDT International community informed, engaged, and aligned with the organization’s mission and objectives.
Her expertise extends to graphic design allowing her to produce compelling visuals for various media. Tricia is passionate about team development, leadership coaching, and fostering a collaborative organizational culture. Her mission is to advance and contribute to the growth and evolution of the dog training industry.
Tricia is a passionate animal lover. She has three dogs, Callie (blue heeler), Charlie (standard poodle), and Lily (lab/border collie). She also has three rescue horses, two ponies, two pigs and a flock of chickens on her farm.
Tricia excels in developing and executing effective marketing plans, managing creative projects, and ensuring brand integrity across all platforms. She plays a pivotal role in communicating with APDT members through various channels and targeted member communications. Her efforts are integral in keeping the APDT International community informed, engaged, and aligned with the organization’s mission and objectives.
Her expertise extends to graphic design allowing her to produce compelling visuals for various media. Tricia is passionate about team development, leadership coaching, and fostering a collaborative organizational culture. Her mission is to advance and contribute to the growth and evolution of the dog training industry.
Tricia is a passionate animal lover. She has three dogs, Callie (blue heeler), Charlie (standard poodle), and Lily (lab/border collie). She also has three rescue horses, two ponies, two pigs and a flock of chickens on her farm.
Nita Briscoe
Exhibitor Relations Manager
Nita Briscoe
Exhibitor Relations Manager
Who knew there was a job that required you to talk about dog toys, treats and enrichment!
Nita joined the APDT pack in 2016 and has all the conference t shirts and hoodies to show for it.
She loves to find creative ways to connect trainers to sponsors and exhibitors onsite at our annual conference.
Nita is owned and loved at home by her rescue dogs, Tyson (Pit/Lab mix) and Tank (Bulldog/Boxer mix.) She is a foster Mom and volunteer for an animal rescue based in Cincinnati,
OH. Emails with pictures of dogs/pets attached are her favorite correspondence.
Nita joined the APDT pack in 2016 and has all the conference t shirts and hoodies to show for it.
She loves to find creative ways to connect trainers to sponsors and exhibitors onsite at our annual conference.
Nita is owned and loved at home by her rescue dogs, Tyson (Pit/Lab mix) and Tank (Bulldog/Boxer mix.) She is a foster Mom and volunteer for an animal rescue based in Cincinnati,
OH. Emails with pictures of dogs/pets attached are her favorite correspondence.
Devon Hubbard
Chronicle Of The Dog Editor
Devon Hubbard
Chronicle Of The Dog Editor
Upon graduation, Devon worked at newspapers in Kentucky and public relations at Kentucky State University, before heading south to Florida as a public relations coordinator for The Miami Herald. After getting SCUBA certified and married, the newlyweds headed to Gilroy, California, where Devon was editor of a monthly chamber of commerce newsletter.
Her next career move was when she and her late husband purchased a weekly newspaper in Belgrade, Montana. After their son, Cameron, graduated from high school, she and her son moved closer to her family in Virginia, where Devon covered the military for a weekly newspaper owned by Military Newspapers of Virginia. She then became an assistant editor for The Virginian-Pilot's Suburban Team, and editor of its community twice-weekly publication, the Chesapeake Clipper.
After moving to northern Virginia in 2013, Devon was an editor for the Air Force Times before transitioning back into public relations producing articles, blogs and feature stories for the Naval History and Heritage Command located at the Washington Navy Yard in Washington, D.C. After 35 years away, Devon returned to Kentucky in 2016 to be closer to her mother in Winchester.
Devon currently shares her home with a rescued flame-point Siamese cat, Thorn, and her sixth and seventh Golden Retrievers, Golden/Brittany cross Evie, a rescue from Golden Retriever Rescue and Adoption of Needy Dogs (GRRAND) based out of Louisville, and wild child Poppy, a red field Golden Retriever, as well as a very overworked Shark robot vacuum named Bruce.
Her next career move was when she and her late husband purchased a weekly newspaper in Belgrade, Montana. After their son, Cameron, graduated from high school, she and her son moved closer to her family in Virginia, where Devon covered the military for a weekly newspaper owned by Military Newspapers of Virginia. She then became an assistant editor for The Virginian-Pilot's Suburban Team, and editor of its community twice-weekly publication, the Chesapeake Clipper.
After moving to northern Virginia in 2013, Devon was an editor for the Air Force Times before transitioning back into public relations producing articles, blogs and feature stories for the Naval History and Heritage Command located at the Washington Navy Yard in Washington, D.C. After 35 years away, Devon returned to Kentucky in 2016 to be closer to her mother in Winchester.
Devon currently shares her home with a rescued flame-point Siamese cat, Thorn, and her sixth and seventh Golden Retrievers, Golden/Brittany cross Evie, a rescue from Golden Retriever Rescue and Adoption of Needy Dogs (GRRAND) based out of Louisville, and wild child Poppy, a red field Golden Retriever, as well as a very overworked Shark robot vacuum named Bruce.
Abby Davis
Events Manager
Abby Davis
Events ManagerJennifer Franco
Director Of Educational Programs
Jennifer Franco
Director Of Educational Programs
Jennifer holds a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Business Administration with a minor in Aviation from Dowling College, New York. She is a certified Virtual Events Planner and holds a Kentucky Teaching Certification. Jennifer has a decade of experience in association management, project management, instructional design, strategic planning, and credentialing compliance.
As the Education Director for the Association for Professional Dog Training International since May 2015, Jennifer has significantly contributed to the association by creating inclusive and effective learning experiences tailored for online delivery, ensuring they cater to diverse learning styles. Her duties include finding speakers for APDT’s annual educational conferences, scheduling sessions, and establishing mentor programs between veterans in the animal industry with those seeking guidance.
Jennifer has a love for animals, She lives on a farm with her horses, chickens and hunting terrier, Wyn, who competes in barn hunting.
As the Education Director for the Association for Professional Dog Training International since May 2015, Jennifer has significantly contributed to the association by creating inclusive and effective learning experiences tailored for online delivery, ensuring they cater to diverse learning styles. Her duties include finding speakers for APDT’s annual educational conferences, scheduling sessions, and establishing mentor programs between veterans in the animal industry with those seeking guidance.
Jennifer has a love for animals, She lives on a farm with her horses, chickens and hunting terrier, Wyn, who competes in barn hunting.
Meet the APDT staff.
Matt Varney
Executive Director
Matt Varney
Executive Director
Matt has a passion for making a positive impact on communities. He came to APDT’s Executive Director role in 2023 after leading nonprofits and membership associations for over 12 years. Before APDT, he acted as a Director at Entrepreneurs' Organization, supporting a global community of 18,000 entrepreneurs in expanding leadership and personal development. Prior to that Matt was a Director with the International Coaching Federation, supporting the advancement of professional coaching around the world.
Matt holds an MSc in Global Economics, a BA in International/Global Studies, with certification and training in Project Management, Agile Leadership and Organizational Systems Relationship Coaching.
Matt holds an MSc in Global Economics, a BA in International/Global Studies, with certification and training in Project Management, Agile Leadership and Organizational Systems Relationship Coaching.
Tricia Louque
Director of Marketing and Communications
Tricia Louque
Director of Marketing and Communications
With a Master’s Degree in Business Administration and over 15 years of experience in marketing and communications, Tricia Louque is a marketing and brand strategist dedicated to driving business growth and organizational success. As the Director of Marketing and Communications for the Association for Professional Dog Training International (APDT International), she is responsible for crafting and maintaining the organization's voice through strategic marketing campaigns and communications.
Tricia excels in developing and executing effective marketing plans, managing creative projects, and ensuring brand integrity across all platforms. She plays a pivotal role in communicating with APDT members through various channels and targeted member communications. Her efforts are integral in keeping the APDT International community informed, engaged, and aligned with the organization’s mission and objectives.
Her expertise extends to graphic design allowing her to produce compelling visuals for various media. Tricia is passionate about team development, leadership coaching, and fostering a collaborative organizational culture. Her mission is to advance and contribute to the growth and evolution of the dog training industry.
Tricia is a passionate animal lover. She has three dogs, Callie (blue heeler), Charlie (standard poodle), and Lily (lab/border collie). She also has three rescue horses, two ponies, two pigs and a flock of chickens on her farm.
Tricia excels in developing and executing effective marketing plans, managing creative projects, and ensuring brand integrity across all platforms. She plays a pivotal role in communicating with APDT members through various channels and targeted member communications. Her efforts are integral in keeping the APDT International community informed, engaged, and aligned with the organization’s mission and objectives.
Her expertise extends to graphic design allowing her to produce compelling visuals for various media. Tricia is passionate about team development, leadership coaching, and fostering a collaborative organizational culture. Her mission is to advance and contribute to the growth and evolution of the dog training industry.
Tricia is a passionate animal lover. She has three dogs, Callie (blue heeler), Charlie (standard poodle), and Lily (lab/border collie). She also has three rescue horses, two ponies, two pigs and a flock of chickens on her farm.
Nita Briscoe
Exhibitor Relations Manager
Nita Briscoe
Exhibitor Relations Manager
Who knew there was a job that required you to talk about dog toys, treats and enrichment!
Nita joined the APDT pack in 2016 and has all the conference t shirts and hoodies to show for it.
She loves to find creative ways to connect trainers to sponsors and exhibitors onsite at our annual conference.
Nita is owned and loved at home by her rescue dogs, Tyson (Pit/Lab mix) and Tank (Bulldog/Boxer mix.) She is a foster Mom and volunteer for an animal rescue based in Cincinnati,
OH. Emails with pictures of dogs/pets attached are her favorite correspondence.
Nita joined the APDT pack in 2016 and has all the conference t shirts and hoodies to show for it.
She loves to find creative ways to connect trainers to sponsors and exhibitors onsite at our annual conference.
Nita is owned and loved at home by her rescue dogs, Tyson (Pit/Lab mix) and Tank (Bulldog/Boxer mix.) She is a foster Mom and volunteer for an animal rescue based in Cincinnati,
OH. Emails with pictures of dogs/pets attached are her favorite correspondence.
Devon Hubbard
Chronicle Of The Dog Editor
Devon Hubbard
Chronicle Of The Dog Editor
Upon graduation, Devon worked at newspapers in Kentucky and public relations at Kentucky State University, before heading south to Florida as a public relations coordinator for The Miami Herald. After getting SCUBA certified and married, the newlyweds headed to Gilroy, California, where Devon was editor of a monthly chamber of commerce newsletter.
Her next career move was when she and her late husband purchased a weekly newspaper in Belgrade, Montana. After their son, Cameron, graduated from high school, she and her son moved closer to her family in Virginia, where Devon covered the military for a weekly newspaper owned by Military Newspapers of Virginia. She then became an assistant editor for The Virginian-Pilot's Suburban Team, and editor of its community twice-weekly publication, the Chesapeake Clipper.
After moving to northern Virginia in 2013, Devon was an editor for the Air Force Times before transitioning back into public relations producing articles, blogs and feature stories for the Naval History and Heritage Command located at the Washington Navy Yard in Washington, D.C. After 35 years away, Devon returned to Kentucky in 2016 to be closer to her mother in Winchester.
Devon currently shares her home with a rescued flame-point Siamese cat, Thorn, and her sixth and seventh Golden Retrievers, Golden/Brittany cross Evie, a rescue from Golden Retriever Rescue and Adoption of Needy Dogs (GRRAND) based out of Louisville, and wild child Poppy, a red field Golden Retriever, as well as a very overworked Shark robot vacuum named Bruce.
Her next career move was when she and her late husband purchased a weekly newspaper in Belgrade, Montana. After their son, Cameron, graduated from high school, she and her son moved closer to her family in Virginia, where Devon covered the military for a weekly newspaper owned by Military Newspapers of Virginia. She then became an assistant editor for The Virginian-Pilot's Suburban Team, and editor of its community twice-weekly publication, the Chesapeake Clipper.
After moving to northern Virginia in 2013, Devon was an editor for the Air Force Times before transitioning back into public relations producing articles, blogs and feature stories for the Naval History and Heritage Command located at the Washington Navy Yard in Washington, D.C. After 35 years away, Devon returned to Kentucky in 2016 to be closer to her mother in Winchester.
Devon currently shares her home with a rescued flame-point Siamese cat, Thorn, and her sixth and seventh Golden Retrievers, Golden/Brittany cross Evie, a rescue from Golden Retriever Rescue and Adoption of Needy Dogs (GRRAND) based out of Louisville, and wild child Poppy, a red field Golden Retriever, as well as a very overworked Shark robot vacuum named Bruce.
Abby Davis
Events Manager
Abby Davis
Events ManagerJennifer Franco
Director Of Educational Programs
Jennifer Franco
Director Of Educational Programs
Jennifer holds a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Business Administration with a minor in Aviation from Dowling College, New York. She is a certified Virtual Events Planner and holds a Kentucky Teaching Certification. Jennifer has a decade of experience in association management, project management, instructional design, strategic planning, and credentialing compliance.
As the Education Director for the Association for Professional Dog Training International since May 2015, Jennifer has significantly contributed to the association by creating inclusive and effective learning experiences tailored for online delivery, ensuring they cater to diverse learning styles. Her duties include finding speakers for APDT’s annual educational conferences, scheduling sessions, and establishing mentor programs between veterans in the animal industry with those seeking guidance.
Jennifer has a love for animals, She lives on a farm with her horses, chickens and hunting terrier, Wyn, who competes in barn hunting.
As the Education Director for the Association for Professional Dog Training International since May 2015, Jennifer has significantly contributed to the association by creating inclusive and effective learning experiences tailored for online delivery, ensuring they cater to diverse learning styles. Her duties include finding speakers for APDT’s annual educational conferences, scheduling sessions, and establishing mentor programs between veterans in the animal industry with those seeking guidance.
Jennifer has a love for animals, She lives on a farm with her horses, chickens and hunting terrier, Wyn, who competes in barn hunting.
Interested in Serving on the Board of Directors or other volunteering opportunity?
Applications are currently closed for the upcoming term.
We will reopen our call for volunteers in Spring 2025
Interested in Serving on the Board of Directors or other volunteering opportunity?
Applications are currently closed for the upcoming term.
We will reopen our call for volunteers in Spring 2025