Meet the Team

Trainer: Vicky Kontomichalos

Hello Pet Parents! I’m Vicky and have over 10 years experience in dog training and 14 years in the dog industry. I have worked in retail as well as pet food/supply stores. I grew up in New York where I started my training career. Dog training has given me a boost of confidence that I never thought possible. Training dogs and pet parents is one of the most rewarding careers. I am a very patient, loyal, dedicated and honest person that gets right to the point. They say anyone that meets me instantly falls in love with me. Empathetic listening, patience and guidance is in my expertise. Some of my hobbies include; dogs, hiking, traveling, historic adventures and basically just living life to the fullest. I have 2 dogs, Rambo and Elsa! Our boy Rambo was my best man at my wedding. You can read more about the pups below. I would love to work with you and your dog to help you better understand the relationship between you and your furry friend. Along with helping manage, you will have the tools/knowledge to live a happy, healthy life with your pup.

Certifications

  • CGC Evaluator – ability to evaluate dogs in a relaxed environment while simulating real world situations the dog may encounter on a daily basis
  • Member of the APDT – Association of Professional Dog Trainers
  • CPDT-KA – measures a broad range of knowledge and skills in ethology, learning theory, dog training technique, and instruction
  • ADA Service Dog Training
  • ESA Training

Groomer: Kara Weidaw-Kontomichalos 

I started as a hair stylist but quickly turned my profession over to dog grooming. I have been working in the dog grooming industry for over 10 years. I have worked at PetSmart, EarthWise, a vet’s office and doggy daycares’. I pride myself in making pet parents happy as well as the comfort of your furry family members. My strengths are working with scared, unconfident dogs that may need a bit more time to be able to enjoy their pamper days. My wife being a certified professional dog trainer aids me in helping dogs be successful in grooming. We work as a team to make your pup look pretty without making the experience unenjoyable. I pride myself in passion, empathy and honesty. If you are willing to work with your pup, so are we.

Rambo & Elsa

Rambo is our ten year old Lab/Rottie-Mastiff mix. Nine and a half years ago, Rambo was rescued from a pet parent that could not handle him. Rambo struggled in PetSmart training classes where he retook the course three times. Once rescued, he came to work everyday and trained in every one of my classes. Time and consistency was dedicated to him! He also brought my wife and I together at PetSmart. Rambo is a perfect example of showing what you put into your dog will choose the outcome you get in training. He is retired as in his older age he doesn’t have the patience he had when he was younger. Nonetheless, he has taught us a lot in the dog world and has helped us get to where we are at in our lives now.

Elsa is our five year old Pitbull/Boxer mix that keeps our ten year old boy young. Elsa was a foster failure and is the comedic relief everyone needs in their life. She is also one of the biggest babies out there. Elsa is always looking for something to do and loves her some snacks.