Zach
Lead Trainer
Zach is our Lead Trainer. He received his Bachelor degree in Animal Science with a concentration in canines from SUNY Cobleskill. He is well versed in canine training, behavior, health, and nutrition. After his last semester of college, he ended up in South Carolina working at a canine facility where he became experienced in canine psychology, sport & police dogs, and of course, pet dog training. Most recently he completed the “Proper Use of the Electronic Collar” offered by The Michael Ellis School for Dog Trainers in California. Zach is also a certified AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluator. Zach strives to better the relationship between a dog and their owner and works hard to make everyone reach their full potential, both 2 legs and 4. Outside of work you can find Zach training his German Shepherd, Zora, or adventuring outside!
Kyle
Associate Trainer
Kyle is one of our associate trainers who works with our private training clients and board & train dogs. Kyle grew up on the North shore of Massachusetts. He has always had many dogs growing up. After high school, Kyle knew he wanted to pursue dog training. He worked at a doggy daycare and boarding facility where he learned a lot about body language, canine behavior and dog interactions. Kyle has completed the Dog Trainer certification through the Animal Behavior College. He took on many training clients of his own working on obedience and behavior modification prior to joining the team at Upstate Canine. Kyle is also an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator.
He has a Malinois x American Staffordshire Terrier mix named Tuco, who he rescued from a shelter. In his free time, Kyle enjoys doing advanced obedience and hiking with Tuco.
“I love being able to help clients build a better relationship with their dog and allow them both to live a better life. My goal is to help as many dogs as possible!”
Kasen
Board & Train Trainer
Kasen is one of our board and train trainers. She has over 5 years of experience caring for dogs in both kennel and home environments and over a year of experience training and handling dogs. Kasen aims to send dogs home from the board and train program well mannered and better suited to live in their home.
“I love my job because I get to see the day to day progress in each dog that comes through the board and train program.” Outside of work you can find Kasen hanging out with her German Shepherd, Mojoe.
Julia
Board & Train Trainer
Julia is a board and train trainer at UCA. She has always had a passion for animals and has worked in many aspects of the animal industry including daycares, rescues, veterinary hospitals, and training facilities. Julia’s love for dog training began after she adopted a cattle dog mix who had some behavioral challenges and she wanted to help him become a more balanced and healthy dog. Julia’s education started when she attended Essex Agricultural High School majoring in companion animal science where she studied animal behavior, training, husbandry, and grooming. In her free time, she loves spending time with her friends and rescue dog, Owen.
“My favorite part about working at UCA is being able to work with dogs and their owners. I love being able to see each dogs progress throughout their time with us!”
Alyssa
Doggy Daycare Manager
Alyssa is our jack of all trades! She is our Daycare Manager and has been a part of UCA for over 4 years. Alyssa always makes sure the dogs in our care are given the highest quality of care. Alyssa works with our team of daycare attendants to ensure a safe and fun environment for all of the dogs in our daycare Pack. She has taken courses through the Animal Behavior College and is a graduate of Penn Foster’s Dog Obedience Trainer/Instructor program. She is double certified in Canine First Aid and CPR.
Alyssa has two dogs of her own. A 2 year old Doberman, Delta, with whom she is working on earning AKC titles. Her other pup, Nova, is a young, working-line GSD.
“My position with our team at Upstate Canine Academy has allowed me so many amazing opportunities working with some wonderful people and canines alike. To me, the best part of any day is seeing a dog’s progress. Knowing that we are able to help dogs become happier and healthier, and help build better relationships between dogs and their owners, is an all around great feeling. I wouldn’t trade it for the world!”
Brittany
Daycare Attendant
Brittany is one of our daycare attendants. She has owned dogs all of her life and also worked on a farm with many different animals. She has been a part of UCA for over 3 years. Brittany’s ability to read canine behavior, understand different breeds and a Pack environment, and interact with the dogs makes our daycare program exceptional!
“I love being a part of the team here at UCA! I’ve always thought the best thing about people is their dogs, and working here allows me to meet and interact with many different breeds, which is what I enjoy most. I’ve had previous jobs caring for other animals, and always lend a helping hand to family and friends in need of pet sitting.”
Taylor
Facilities Manager
Taylor is our facilities manager. She received her B.A. in Finance and Marketing from the University at Albany. Taylor oversees all of our day-to-day operations. She has been working alongside Tom for over 5 years, learning the ins and outs of the dog industry, and helping the Upstate Canine Academy offer the highest quality services. Her focus is the quality control of our services and continuing to bring an innovative, enjoyable experience to everyone who works with UCA.
Madison
Office Receptionist
Madison has worked in doggy daycares for over 10 years, including our daycare at UCA for several years. She is now our office receptionist working with our team to help as many dogs and owners get the help and training they need. She is your go-to person for any questions, scheduling, and will likely be the one you to talk to if you call our office!
“Working at Upstate Canine has been the most rewarding job. I love getting to know all of the dogs and their different personalities. I wouldn’t want to have any other job!”
Katrina
Associate Trainer
Katrina is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and has been a professional member of the International Association for Canine Professionals since 2018. She received her B.A. in Creative Art Therapy and cultivates solution-focused and goal-oriented methods to curb nuisance or behavioral problems. In 2008 she began studying behavior modification in animals, focusing specifically on helping humans and their dogs since 2012.
Katrina has a strong belief that clear and effective communication skills cross the species barrier. As an Associate Trainer at Upstate Canine Academy, Katrina empowers owners to improve their body language and successfully implement balanced training methods to improve everything from puppy life and leash walking skills to aggression and resource guarding; all to help develop stronger, more meaningful bonds. In her spare time, Katrina studies canine health and genetics, loves rock climbing and hiking with her dogs.