How Kathrina’s K9s Began

I’d wanted a dog for years, and when we finally moved closer to work, it felt like the perfect time. What I didn’t know was that bringing Bennett home would change almost everything.

From the very beginning, I wanted to do things “right.” Before he even arrived, I was deep into training videos, puppy prep, and researching communication tools like AIC buttons. Once Bennett came home, we jumped into classes, kept learning, and met some wonderful people who helped shape our early training journey.

At Bennett’s one‑year checkup, I mentioned some of his “big feelings,” and that conversation opened the door to even more growth. We were introduced to new training approaches, learned more about positive reinforcement and handler mechanics, and discovered nosework — an activity that quickly became one of Bennett’s favorites. Those lessons made me want to understand dogs on a deeper level.

That curiosity led me to pursue a dog training certification through Animal Behavior College. I completed my coursework, worked with rescue dogs, taught a class on positive reinforcement, and continued expanding Bennett’s skills. He even earned his first nosework ribbons and trick dog titles along the way.

I kept learning wherever I could: reading, taking classes, participating in AIC discussions, expanding Bennett’s vocabulary, and saying yes to every opportunity - all while working long hours at my main job. Eventually, I was invited to teach a local AIC group class, and that opened the door to even more training opportunities.

By January 2025, everything had come full circle. I began working part‑time in the AIC space, started teaching locally, and began apprenticing with a service‑dog training program. I even earned my FP-AICC Pro I’ve asked a billion questions, learned from incredible mentors, and I’m now helping raise and train future service dogs - something I never imagined before Bennett.

Without Bennett and his big feelings, I wouldn’t have found this path, such influential and important people, or this new career. He’s the reason Kathrina’s K9s exists, and I’m forever grateful.