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My Story

"Be angry, be happy, be chaotic, be calculated, be powerful, be vulnerable; truly embody these characteristics at the precise moments and watch what these dogs will do for you."

-Mike Nezbeth
 

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Working with animals has always been my dream. I wasn’t exactly sure how it would take shape. I just knew I was drawn to animals and wanted to turn that passion into a career. I got my first problem dog at 18, and that moment kick-started the journey that brought me to where I am today.

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I dove headfirst into the animal welfare world by living at and managing an animal shelter. Here, I quickly gained hands-on experience handling dogs with a variety of behavioral challenges: aggression, reactivity, barrier frustration, resource guarding, etc. I worked with dogs of all breeds, ages, and temperaments. During this time, I also began apprenticing under a retired K9 handler, learning the foundations of pet dog training.

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To deepen my knowledge, I studied Veterinary Science and earned an AAS in Veterinary Technology. I passed my boards as a Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) in the state of Connecticut in 2020. From 2021 to 2024, I trained board-and-train dogs, taught group classes, and led private lessons for a high volume facility. in 2022, I began to branch out into the working dog community and through various mentorships, seminars and learning from some of the best trainers in the industry, my dreams skyrocketed.

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After becoming a mom in 2023, I wanted to stay present for my family while focusing more on the quality of my skills and having time to invest into the working dog world—and thus, K9 Ethix was born. Whether your goal is obedience, sport, scent work, behavioral rehabilitation, or simply a well-mannered companion, I’m here to support you and your dog every step of the way. 
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CONTINUING EDUCATION

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Mentorship and collaboration are two things I value deeply; for both accountability and continued growth. I'm grateful to have peers and mentors surrounding me who consistently challenge and inspire me to continue refining my skills.

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2024

Behavior Modification Seminar 

Fernando Gonzalez

Resource Guarding Webinar 

​Fernando Gonzalez​

3-Day Decoy Fundamentals

Carlos Ramierz, Mike Nezbeth​
4-Day Canine Conference
Featuring: Larry Kron, Vinnie Somma, Piper Shultz, Jay Jack, Mahogany Gamble, Robert Cabral, Justin Rigney, Mariano Alvarez, Jamie Fincher, MaligatorMom, Kiley Beamer, Emilyanne Schwinn, Bee Moore, Danny Wells, Nino Drowaert, Dr. Sab, Jacqui Zakar, Jonas Black

2025

Virtual Mentorship

Samantha Johnson (Pack Life LA)​​

STSK9 MVP Mastermind

Nino Drowaert
Decoy & Handler Development 

Dave Santiago​

Ringsport Bitework Seminar

​Nick Gamez ​

Protection & Detection 
Kelsey Como (Grassroots K9)

Dog Training Workshop Tour

Larry Kron, Jay Jack, Joe Silverman

Decoy Fundamentals 

Zack Hollers

PSA Trial Prep

Terry Bocai

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METHODOLOGY​​

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We specialize in providing personalized and holistic training solutions to help you enjoy your dog to the fullest! We offer extremely personalized training focused on bringing clarity to your relationship with your dog. 

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I truly believe in looking at the whole picture when it comes to our dogs. That means creating a balance of structure, physical exercise, and mental stimulation—not just to manage behavior, but to help fulfill their needs as much as they fulfill ours. Every training plan I create is individualized and detail oriented, adjusting my methods to suit you and your dog's unique dynamic while keeping things as simple as possible!

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Decision Making>Obedience 

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My goal is to help you AND your dog become a confident team. We don't want a dog that just follows commands to avoid trouble, but one who wants to do the right thing because they feel safe and confident with the communication we provide. I want to elevate your dog to their fullest potential and to help you build a bond to last a lifetime.

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Because at the end of the day, it's not about a perfect “sit” or “stay", it's about being able to enjoy our dogs and allow them to experience and the world!

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​COMMUNITY

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Rescue dogs have a special place in my heart. I have partnered with Wallingford Animal Control to offer free board & train services to shelter dogs as well as future discount service to adopters to give these dogs the best chance at succeeding in their new homes. If you are interested in adopting or inquiring about shelter dog board & train availability, please send me an email!!

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Haley White, CVT
Owner/Instructor, K9 Ethix

Pack walk 2024
Hammonasset Beach 2023
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