K9 Compass LLC

I got my service dog, Jazzy, through a program in October 2024 and was given very limited training as a handler. After Jazzy was nipped by an off-leash dog, I felt hopeless and lost as a handler, and my confidence was truly shaken. As a new service dog handler, I knew I needed help and am so thankful to have found Caroline at K-9 Compass. Even before we met, she spent time talking with me on the phone and listening to my fears and anxieties. She truly understood and reassured me that we could overcome the challenges. I could immediately tell she has an undeniable love and passion for dogs, as well as a strong dedication to helping people in my situation succeed. We initially met one-on-one, along with Beth, and they had a neutral dog there to see how Jazzy reacted and what we needed to work on. Caroline helped me with very practical things right away — including fitting me with a leash I can physically hold without increasing spasticity in my hands. I didn’t realize how much the wrong equipment was affecting me until that changed. She also took time to educate me on service dog laws and my rights as a handler, which was incredibly helpful and something I had not been properly taught before. Having a clear understanding of the laws surrounding service dogs helped reduce my anxiety. She gave me tips on things to do at home to help keep Jazzy engaged. She also helped me understand how to safely correct Jazzy and how to reward her when walking. Jazzy and I then moved on to group sessions, and after just a few classes, I felt more capable and less overwhelmed. Caroline took the time to walk step by step through everything and answered all my questions thoroughly. I really enjoyed the last group class where we did rally — Caroline, Beth, and Sherri always find ways to keep things fun and engaging for both handlers and dogs. The training we’ve received so far has made a big difference for both me and Jazzy as a service dog/handler team, and I still reflect back on things I learned during that initial session and put them into daily practice with Jazzy. I can’t wait to do more sessions and continue to learn and build my self-confidence. Thank you so much, Caroline — you truly are an amazing trainer and teacher for dogs and handlers alike 🐾

Caroline at K9 Compass was such a huge help in training my mobility service dog. My first dog came from an ADI recognized nonprofit, so the thought of raising and training a service dog to that standard on my own with the help of local trainers was daunting. Caroline and her training methods helped us to not only reach but exceed our goals as a working service dog team. I cant say enough good things about K9 Compass and their training. Thank you, Caroline!