Our Team
Russ
All levels of obedience, Recess, Detention, Service Work and Scent Detection
Russ is the man who started it all. He first started working with police dogs several years ago and has an extensive background in dog training. His certifications are through P.O.S.T., the only training program in the country recognized for expertise in dog psychology and behavior by the U.S Supreme Court. With over a decade of experience, Russ is our top trainer.
Russ was a certified instructor for patrol and narcotic disciplines, and he is a master in dog obedience, drive, temperament development, and behavior recognition and modification.
During his career, he has trained thousands of dogs and specializes in protection and scent work disciplines. He owns Raya, Envy & Hela, Belgian Malinois trained in personal protection and scent detection, as well as his two family dogs, a German Shorthair Pointer named Ranger, and “Buddy” a King Charles Cavalier
Russ enjoys road cycling, Drones, RC cars, motorcycles, family outings and Blaze Pizza.
Russ is based out of Mapleton.
Kenna
All levels of obedience, Recess, Detention, & Service Work
Kenna has been with Maligator Kennels since its inception. She brings with her a direct but gentle approach to dog training. She is well-versed in dog psychology, as well as advanced obedience and e-collar training techniques.
She oversees our ESA, therapy and service dog programs and is an expert in these fields. Kenna is extremely knowledgeable on current training techniques pertaining to these specialties. Kenna is trained and certified through Maligator to teach all forms of dog training, aside from personal protection and scent work.
Kenna enjoys sushi, going to the gym, hanging out with her little girl and riding horses. You'll likely meet her ball-obsessed Labradork, Kovu, Shadow her friendly Irish Setter, and Peach the Crackhead Bulldogge at training sessions and classes.
Kenna is based out of Mapleton.
Brianna
All levels of obedience, Recess & Detention
Brianna began her Maligator journey as a client looking to train a service dog, Milo, for a member of her family. Brianna always excelled at completing her homework, and had a genuine interest in learning “how to teach a dog to do something.” With her hard work and dedication, Milo thrived with all of his training.
Brianna brings with her confidence and personality that will win even the most stubborn people over. She enjoys learning new things and supporting her teammates. Brianna is climbing the ladder fast, and promises to be one of our best.
Brianna runs a nonprofit to support maternal health care and is passionate about volunteering. She is currently certified to teach all levels of obedience, as well as some levels of behavior modification. She enjoys reading, traveling around the world, and running.
Brianna is based out of Spanish Fork.
Kristine
Freshman , Sophomore, Junior, Recess & Light Detention
Kristine came to Maligator after trying on her own to figure out why her crazy Great Dane Kona couldn’t get along with other dogs. After working with Maligator for a few months she saw such huge differences in Kona’s behavior, and found a passion in learning how dogs think.
She enjoys learning new things and supporting her teammates. Her favorite part of training is seeing the relationship between owner and dog strengthen and grow as they learn to communicate.
She is currently certified to teach Freshman, Sophomore & Junior obedience. She loves being outside, whether that is camping and fishing with her family, hiking with her dog, or playing sports with her kids.
Kristine is based out of West Jordan.
Sabrina
Freshman, Sophomore & Junior
Sabrina started with Maligator as a client looking to train her family dog, a Labrador named Max who had behavioral problems. Working with Maligator Kennels and Max opened up a whole new world of tools for dog training. Max has since passed Detention and Sophomore obedience.
Sabrina has known from the first consult that she wanted to continue working with dogs in the future. She has previously worked at an animal shelter and has worked with some of the most difficult dogs but also the most loveable. She is determined, persistent, and ready to grow as a trainer. Sabrina loves helping dogs and their owners succeed as they work on their relationship together. Sabrina is currently finishing up her bachelor of psychology.
Sabrina enjoys hiking with her dog, Blitz, Dr. Pepper, and drawing in her free time. She is currently certified to teach Freshman and Sophomore obedience.
Sabrina is based out of Orem.
Shane
Freshman & Sophomore
Shane came to Maligator in search of a service dog trainer for his dog Rocky. He took Rocky through all levels of obedience and progressed to through public access and task work due to his dedication to his dog.
He enjoys learning new things and supporting his teammates. His favorite part of training is seeing the all of the things that dogs are able to assist people with and building relationships between dogs and their owners.
He is currently certified to teach Freshman and Sophomore obedience. He loves being outside, whether that is camping or hiking with Rocky. He also has a passion for baseball and has a goal to visit all 30 MLB parks.
Shane is based out of Spanish Fork and on Fridays, American Fork.
Daria
Freshman & Social Media Coordinator
Daria sought out Maligator's expertise following a troubling incident involving her dog Scout, requiring urgent rehabilitation. After months of dedicated training, Scout completed Detention and Senior Obedience courses, now accompanying her to most sessions for additional support.
With a passion for laughter and a desire to uplift others, Daria draws inspiration from her own dog's remarkable transformation rooted in understanding canine psychology. She endeavors to extend this transformative experience to other families, much like her own.
Outside her professional endeavors, Daria finds solace in hiking with her beloved dogs and cherishing moments with her husband. Certified in Freshman Obedience instruction, she eagerly anticipates furthering her expertise in advanced levels and eventually specializing in behavioral training.
Based in Provo, Daria covers the areas of Orem, Provo & Springville.
Brindyn
Freshman
Brindyn came to Maligator as an intern to learn more about the dog training world. She is a passionate individual who has dedicated her time to understanding dog psychology and behavior. She believes learning how dogs work is essential in creating a strong bond between humans and canines.
In her free time, Brindyn can often be found outdoors, enjoying activities such as hiking, fishing, and exploring nature. Brindyn's love for the outdoors not only feeds her soul but also provides a perfect backdrop for training her beloved dog, Sevvy, who despite having only one lung, is always up for any adventure.
Brindyn is a highly adaptable individual who is always eager to learn and improve. She approaches every challenge with a positive attitude and a willingness to grow. Her passion for dog psychology and behavior drives her to constantly seek out new knowledge and strategies to understand better and connect with the animals she loves. Brindyn’s dedication to her work, love for animals, and adventurous spirit make her a unique and inspiring individual in the dog training and behavior world.
Brindyn is based out of Lehi and covers, Eagle Mountain, Saratoga Springs, Lehi and American Fork
Alesha
Administrative Assistant
Meet Alesha, our wonderful customer service specialist and administrative assistant. Alesha came to us as a client, and with the help of her husband, they together took their dog through our obedience programs, and their dog Luda now holds the record for youngest dog to ever pass advanced obedience. Alesha is so much fun, beaming with enthusiasm, kindness and a gentle yet spicy personality. She applied for this position, when it became available, and she was a very clear choice. With her quick wit, reassuring personality and pure kindness, Alesha has taken this position, and made it her own, and she has far exceeded what we could’ve imagined. Alesha likes cycling, spending time with her family, and making sure the bosses stay in line, and on schedule. She is who you talk to first, when you call, email, or have questions about our program.