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.
Kristine
Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Recess, Detention & Public Access
Kristine came to Maligator after trying on her own to figure out why her crazy Great Dane Kona couldn’t get along with other dogs. After working with Maligator for a few months she saw such huge differences in Kona’s behavior, and found a passion in learning how dogs think.
She enjoys learning new things and supporting her teammates. Her favorite part of training is seeing the relationship between owner and dog strengthen and grow as they learn to communicate.
She loves being outside, whether that is camping and fishing with her family, hiking with her dog, or playing sports with her kids.
She is currently certified to teach Freshman, Sophomore & Junior obedience, Recess, Light Detention work, and is being mentored to teach complex Detention and Service Dog Training.
Kristine is based out of West Jordan.
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 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.
He is currently certified to teach Freshman and Sophomore obedience and is being mentored for Junior, E-collar training and light Recess training.
Shane is based out of Spanish Fork and on Fridays, American Fork.
Daria
Freshman & Sophomore
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 and being mentored for Sophomore level training, 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 finished her Freshman shadow certification and is now in the process of taking Freshman client with her mentor.
Brindyn is based out of Lehi and covers, Eagle Mountain, Saratoga Springs, Lehi and American Fork
Arya
Here is our resident “Tiny-Trainer”, Arya. Daughter of Russ and Kenna, Arya has set the bar high regarding tiny humans training their dogs. With a wealth of unbridled enthusiasm, some sass, and a desire to learn and teach others what she knows, Arya is taking the world by storm as she transforms the dog training world.
Arya loves riding her bike, reading books, picking on Russ and her brothers, doing makeup, dressing up, and practicing to be a future “YouTube influencer.”
She likes pizza, Takis, all things containing sugar and sweets. and her sweet dog, a King Charles Cavalier, Buddy.
Arya is certified to help sell Munchies at classes, get food and water for your dog(s), teach you the proper command structure, and showcase her agility skills with her dog.
Alesha
Administrative Assistant & Customer Service Specialist
Meet Alesha, our wonderful customer service specialist and administrative assistant. Alesha came to us as a client, and with the help of her husband, they together took their dog through our obedience programs, and their dog Luda now holds the record for the youngest dog to ever pass advanced obedience.
Alesha is so much fun, beaming with enthusiasm, kindness and a gentle yet spicy personality. She applied for this position, when it became available, and she was a very clear choice. With her quick wit, reassuring personality and pure kindness, Alesha has taken this position, and made it her own, and she has far exceeded what we could’ve imagined.
Alesha likes cycling, spending time with her family, and making sure the bosses stay in line, and on schedule. She is who you talk to first, when you call, email, or have questions about our program.