Meet the Trainer.

Makenna Chaput

With over 7 years of experience in the animal care industry—including doggy daycare, overnight boarding, in-home sitting, and facility management—I’ve had the privilege of working with dogs from all walks of life. My journey in dog training began 5 years ago under the mentorship of Monica Tidrick, where I gained hands-on experience and deep insight into canine behavior.

I’ve worked extensively with rescue dogs through organizations like Motley Mutts and Sato Heart Rescue, and I bring that same compassion and patience into every training session. I hold certifications in Advanced Canine Training and Service/Therapy Dog Training from the Animal Behavior Institute, and I earned a Bachelor's degree in Animal Behavior with a minor in Mental Health Rehabilitation from the University of New England. I'm also an approved AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluator.

My experience spans across multiple breed groups—from high-drive herders like my own Border Collie, to strong-willed bully breeds and quirky little characters like my Pomeranian-Chihuahua mix. These dogs keep me learning every day—and laughing just as much.

Lately, I’ve found a deep passion for canine wellness, and I’m committed to helping dogs not just behave better, but feel better. My approach blends structure with empathy, supporting both the mental and physical balance every dog deserves.

Meet the Demo Dogs!

Rio is a Pomeranian/Chihuahua mix from Sato Heart Rescue. He was found in a box with his two sisters on the side of a highway in Puerto Rico. Soon after he was found, he was brought to the US for adoption. Unfortunately, Rio was adopted and returned to the rescue twice. He went to Monica for some rehab to work on his people reactivity. Monica and I decided he needed to be kept in the family, so I brought him home. He is the best little working dog I could ask for. Rio enjoys participating in Fast CAT, cuddling up to his mom while she reads a good book, frolicking through the woods, and seeing his favorite foster family: Monica and her pack of cattle dogs.

Rio

Kal

Kaladin (Kal) is a purebred Border Collie. He is named after a book series, Stormlight Archives by Brandon Sanderson. While he is still developing into his adult self, Kal is the most goofy Border Collie you will ever meet. He loves to work, but he also loves to fool around and make people laugh. He has a massive overbite and heart. He loves giving people hugs, tossing toys for himself, galloping around the house, and watching TV. Once his mom gets approval from the veterinary dentist, he will hopefully be on his journey to becoming a sports dog.