About Katherine
Katherine has been around dogs her entire life and developed an early interest in animal behaviour, training, and the relationship between people and their pets.
Her career working with animals began in Alberta at South Ram Outfitters, where she taught horseback riding lessons to children and adults while gaining hands-on experience working with farm animals and dogs. During this time, she also worked closely with a registered Australian Shepherd breeder, further developing her understanding of canine behaviour and training.
She later moved to Newfoundland with her Australian Shepherd, Ally, where she worked at Markwin Pet Resort in St. John's. It was there that she discovered her passion for professional dog training and helping owners build stronger relationships with their dogs.
Becoming a professional trainer
Returning to the Ottawa area, Katherine pursued formal education at the Canadian Canine Training Academy. In 2013, she graduated as a Canine Behaviour Specialist and Professional Dog Trainer.
Katherine also successfully completed the Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) certification through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). The CPDT-KA is an internationally recognized credential that requires professional dog training experience, continuing education, and the successful completion of a comprehensive examination covering learning theory, canine behaviour, training techniques, and instructional skills.
She continues to expand her knowledge through ongoing education and professional development.
Serving those who serve
In 2014, Katherine began volunteering with the Canadian Veteran Service Dog Unit (CVSDU), a charitable organization dedicated to providing professionally trained service dogs to veterans and first responders living with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Through her volunteer work, she gained valuable experience supporting service dog teams and developing the specialized skills required for service dog training.
After taking time away from the organization to focus on raising her two daughters, Katherine returned to CVSDU in a professional training role. Today, she is actively involved in supporting service dog teams through group training classes, public access training, and ongoing handler education.
This work has allowed Katherine to combine her passion for dog training with her commitment to supporting individuals whose lives can be positively impacted by the partnership of a highly trained service dog.
Who she works with
Katherine works with dogs of all breeds, ages, and temperaments. She is qualified to teach puppy, beginner, intermediate, and advanced obedience classes, as well as address a wide range of behavioural challenges, including:
- Aggression
- Fear and anxiety
- Separation anxiety
- Reactivity
- Hyperactivity
- Jumping, barking, and nipping
- General obedience and household manners
Over the years, she has helped countless dog owners develop clear communication, structure, and trust with their dogs through practical, effective training methods.
Training philosophy
Katherine believes that successful dog training is built on clear communication, consistency, mutual respect, and education. Her goal is to help owners understand their dogs and develop the skills needed to create a balanced, functional, and enjoyable relationship.
In 2020, Katherine founded Kinergy Canine to provide professional dog training services and support to owners looking for reliable solutions and lasting results.
Whether working with family pets, behaviour cases, or service dog teams, Katherine's focus remains the same: helping dogs and their handlers build strong, lasting relationships through effective training, clear communication, and mutual trust.