Meet the Team

Man running in snowy forest with trained Belgian Malinois dog wearing orange collar.

CHRIS

Head Trainer

I’m Chris, Co Founder of Whittier Dog Club, a Whittier local with over 20 years of hands on experience working with dogs and developing structured training programs focused on real world results. My goal has always been to help owners build clear communication, trust, and accountability with their dogs both at home and in public.

Whittier Dog Club was built to provide honest, structured, and results driven training while also educating owners. We combine professional obedience, behavior modification, and real world accountability in an environment that is both effective and approachable.

I specialize in obedience training, advanced obedience, and behavior rehabilitation, working with dogs of all breeds, ages, and temperaments, from puppy foundations to off leash reliability. I have completed the NePoPo® training schools and continue to refine my craft through ongoing education and hands on work.

Beyond training, we have created a structured boarding environment for dogs that need more than traditional facilities can offer, along with a strong focus on rescue rehabilitation and giving dogs a second chance.

As a father, I value responsibility, structure, and leading by example. Those same principles carry into my work, where the goal is not just to train dogs, but to build better relationships between dogs and their owners.

At the core of everything we do is owner education, because lasting results come from teaching people, not just training dogs.

Sasha

Co Founder

I’m Sasha, Co Founder of Whittier Dog Club, and my path into the dog world began with a personal transformation. After years in the corporate world, I felt called to build something more meaningful. Leaving that career behind to help found Whittier Dog Club was not just a professional decision, it was a heart driven one.

Much of that passion was shaped by my service dog, Meera. Working alongside her showed me firsthand how powerful structure, training, and partnership can be. She changed my life in many ways and inspired me to help create a facility where dogs are understood, supported, and given the guidance they need to thrive. Meera is a big reason Whittier Dog Club exists today.

At Whittier Dog Club, I run operations and focus on the care of both our dogs and our clients. I oversee the daily flow of the facility, coordinate programs, maintain a safe and clean boarding environment, and ensure every family who walks through our doors feels supported and confident. I care deeply about the details, from how dogs are handled and structured throughout the day to how owners experience communication and follow through.

Creating a space that feels professional yet welcoming is incredibly important to me. Many dogs need more structure than home based boarding or large commercial facilities can offer. My goal is to ensure every dog in our care feels safe, stable, and properly managed while every client feels heard and valued.

Outside of Whittier Dog Club, I continue working professionally as a certified explosives detection handler, taking on high profile assignments that require precision, discipline, and advanced canine handling skills. This work strengthens my respect for working dogs and reinforces the importance of structure, consistency, and professionalism in everything we do at the club.

Above all, I am a wife and mother. I love spending time with our children and raising them in an environment centered around responsibility, compassion, and respect for animals. Being able to build this business alongside my family and share that journey with our kids is something I cherish deeply.

Co founding Whittier Dog Club has allowed me to combine leadership, structure, and heart into one purpose driven facility. My commitment is simple. To create a safe, clean, and supportive environment where dogs receive the guidance they need and families feel confident, cared for, and part of a community.

A woman in winter clothing with a black beanie and black jacket standing outdoors on snow, smiling at a black Belgian Malinois dog sitting beside her.

ABBY

Trainer

I’ve had dogs my entire life—primarily Great Danes—and have always appreciated the joy and connection they bring to both individuals and families. My journey into professional dog training began with my first personal dog, Midnight, a Great Dane I trained as my service dog. That experience sparked a deep passion for training, and I found myself enjoying every part of the process, including the challenges and setbacks.

While working closely with experienced trainers and developing my skills as a handler, I realized this was the path I wanted to pursue. I made the decision to transition from a career in digital design to becoming a full-time dog trainer.

To further my education, I completed an intensive 9-month immersion academy where it was truly “eat, sleep, train.” During that time, I built a strong foundation in everything from puppy development and obedience to advanced behavior modification.

Through my training journey, I also discovered a passion for working dogs and dog sports. I’m currently training and preparing to compete with my Belgian Malinois, Mana.

A woman sitting on a large fallen log in a snowy forest, holding a Border Collie.

Kirsten

Groomer

Kirsten brings over 14 years of professional experience to the grooming table. Her deep understanding of coat types, structure, and style comes not just from what she learned at school, but from her years in the AKC show ring. When it comes to clients’ pets, Kirsten’s main priority is your pup’s comfort while delivering the best clean-up or haircut in town. Kirsten has significant experience grooming poodles for the show ring, as well as hand-stripping pets.