Sammi is a skilled dog trainer at Ridgeside K9 Knoxville, known for her lifelong passion for dogs and her commitment to helping them thrive through structure and clear communication. Her journey began at just eight years old, when she started working with hunting and conformation dogs. Her early dedication led her to earn both a Junior Handler title and a Champion title with her Vizsla, achievements that laid a strong foundation for her future in the canine world.
At the age of sixteen, Sammi shifted her focus to rescue and shelter work, driven by a desire to help dogs in need. Over the next five years, she worked as a kennel technician, gaining extensive hands-on experience with a wide range of breeds, temperaments, and behavioral challenges. This real-world exposure helped her develop practical training skills and a deep understanding of canine behavior.
Today, Sammi is the proud owner of several working-line dogs, including her Belgian Malinois, Jekyll, who actively competes in Protection Sports Association (PSA) events. Her experience in high-drive, performance-based training gives her a unique ability to guide dogs through advanced obedience and behavioral conditioning.
Sammi believes in building relationships through structure, consistency, and respect. Her approach is rooted in clarity between dog and handler, with the goal of helping each dog reach its full potential while improving everyday life for their owners. Whether working with pet dogs or competition-level canines, Sammi brings a high level of focus and dedication to every training session.
