A Little About Us

Service Dog Program Director, Senior Trainer

Gary is a skilled and trusted dog trainer with more than 30 years of hands-on experience. His journey began in 1990 as a K9 handler and trainer for the United States Army, where he developed a strong foundation in discipline, precision, and teamwork. Over the years, he’s continued to build on that foundation with a long list of degrees, certifications, and advanced training in canine behavior and obedience. Gary’s credentials are backed by accreditations from several respected national and international organizations, reflecting his dedication to professional excellence.

Now serving as the ACT Service Dog Program Director, Gary focuses on training service dogs to support people with medical conditions and mobility challenges. He’s especially passionate about working with dogs of all abilities, including those with physical disabilities. Gary’s approach is built on a deep understanding of canine behavior, combined with patience, empathy, and a genuine love for what he does. Whether he’s working with a future service dog or helping a family companion thrive, Gary is known for his commitment to helping dogs reach their full potential.

Therapy Dog Course Director, Lead Behaviorist

Draya is a passionate and experienced dog trainer who’s been working with dogs and their people since 2009. With a strong background in canine behavior and a genuine love for what she does, Draya brings both knowledge and heart to every training session. She’s earned multiple professional degrees, certifications, and specialized credentials in dog training, and is accredited by several respected organizations around the world. Her well-rounded experience allows her to confidently train dogs in a variety of areas, always tailoring her approach to fit each individual dog’s needs.

In her role as the Therapy Dog Course Director and Lead Behaviorist, Draya focuses on developing calm, confident, and dependable therapy dogs that make a real difference in people’s lives. She’s also an American Kennel Club (AKC) Judge and certified trainer, known for her thoughtful, balanced approach and ability to work with dogs of all breeds and backgrounds. Whether she’s guiding a dog through basic obedience, helping with behavior challenges, or preparing a team for therapy certification, Draya leads with patience, clarity, and compassion. Her deep understanding of dogs and her dedication to their well-being have made her a trusted name in the training community.