Trainers
We have partnered with local trainers in order to build a community of likeminded people. Our goal is to have trainers with different specialities so you can find the right fit for you and your pup! We have interviewed each trainer and have a detailed Q&A section on each of the trainers personal page for you to learn more about them.
If you are a dog trainer and would like to be considered to join our DSR Community follow the link below.
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Lindsey Kooistra
Lindsey Kooistra, CPDT-KA is a certified professional dog trainer and behavior consultant, providing training to dogs and people all over West Michigan and beyond. She has been working and volunteering with dogs for over 20 years and is committed to providing clients with the most effective, convenient training solutions. She graduated from the University of Michigan with bachelor's degrees in Psychology and Communications and, after working in management and IT consulting for 8 years, decided to fully dedicate her career to her lifelong passion of helping people and dogs live happier lives together. Lindsey completed a 2-year dog training apprenticeship with Michael Jayko, the Dog Guru of Chicago’s North Shore, and has built a large network of happy client references around the country since starting Locdogs LLC in 2020.
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Lauren Ritter
Group Classes at Dog Star Ranch
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Angela Monteith
I began training dogs in 2010 and have developed an affinity for puppies as well as dogs with anxiety and fear issues. My focus is on teaching general household obedience as well as training that will help your dog join you at the beach, park, hiking on trails, or even on camping trips.
The reality is that obedience doesn't fix all the problems we face with our dogs, and that's where Perception Modification shines. I use Perception Modification to help overly excited and anxious dogs learn how to relax and take control of their emotions. Through this process, we can help dogs that have suffered emotional trauma or who deal with noise phobias (yes, we can improve or fix thunderstorm and firework phobias too).
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Aaliyah Robinson
PridePup K9 LLC
Hello! My name is Aaliyah I’ve owned PridePup K9 LLC since 2020. Before opening my business I mentored under an established trainer. For 2 years, I advanced in my knowledge from basic puppy training all the way up to service dogs and police K9s. After these 2 years, I accepted a position with a training company closer to home. For the next 18 months, I put into practice everything I learned, working to see what techniques were best to develop a happy, well balanced dog. In my free time I actively compete with my 2 Belgian Malinois in a sport called PSA.
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Arisha Coffee
Training_With_Rish is a personal dog training service with certified Canine Specialist, Arisha Coffee. Arisha specializes in bridging the gap in communication between pets and pet owners. Every session is a one-on-one opportunity to tackle questions, concerns and challenges owners and family members may have. In each session, Arisha creates scenarios and presents hands-on training exercises custom to each fur baby and the needs of the home. Coming from a background of multiple pets/dogs in the home as a child, Arisha is passionate about helping dog(s), families and pet owners enjoy living with each other. With 10 years of dog training experience, a love for furry four-legged friends, and a desire to create a comfortable and effective communication between pet and pet-owner, Training_With_Rish is an experience for all ages.
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Geneva Austin
I was born and raised in West Michigan but am new to the Muskegon area. Though I enjoy traveling, I am increasingly convinced Michigan is one of the BEST places to live, work and play. Especially the Muskegon area!
As a trainer I strive to improve the quality of life for pups and their people by making training simple and accessible. I am passionate about promoting the welfare and kind treatment of animals and humans through education and compassion in both my work and personal life.
I have always shared life with dogs and horses, I can recall being totally enamored with training and behavior as young as eight, when I took my first puppy through puppy classes! I have honestly been hooked ever since, training primarily horses and dogs. In addition to completing an internship program and working for a highly esteemed training company. I have taken many training courses over the years and am lucky to have a few amazing training mentors!
I have two pitty mix pups, Dutchess and Gwendolyn and an Arabian horse named Con who have been some of my greatest teachers. I love to spend time enjoying the natural beauty, entertainment and great food the Muskegon area as to offer! I continue to meet so many amazing people and pups in our community!