Meet Our Trainers

Dr. Victoria Blondin is a Canine Behaviour Consultant with over 25 years of experience in animal training and behaviour. She holds a Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery (BVM&S) and a Master of Science in Animal Welfare and Behaviour, combining a strong academic foundation with extensive hands-on expertise.

Specialising in canine separation anxiety, Victoria is a Certified Separation Anxiety Pro Trainer (Cert. SAPT) and has supported countless families in helping their dogs feel safe and comfortable when left alone. Beyond this focus, she offers comprehensive behaviour consulting in areas such as obedience, trick training, child safety with dogs, and addressing complex behaviour challenges. Her academic background in feline behaviour also enables her to guide multi-pet households toward harmony and balance.

Victoria’s career began with a commitment to animal welfare, working directly with neglected horses before expanding her practice to companion animals. Today, she combines evidence-based science with a compassionate, reinforcement-based approach that emphasises trust, safety, and emotional well-being for both pets and their people. She is particularly passionate about fostering safe, positive relationships between dogs and children, helping families build confidence and understanding in everyday interactions.

Dedicated to ongoing professional development, Victoria remains at the forefront of behaviour science, ensuring her clients benefit from the most effective, humane, and up-to-date strategies available. Her advanced training and family-focused expertise strengthen the support offered to dogs, their families, and professional partners alike. 

QUALIFICATIONS                   

• Separation Anxiety Pro Trainer
• Previous Veterinary Surgeon for Vets4Pets Colne
• Canine Aggression Directed Towards Humans, Veterinary Information Network
• Previous Veterinary Surgeon for YourVets Solihull
• University of Edinburgh- Equine Nutrition Course
• Veterinary Medicine and Surgery (BVM&S)
• Hills Pet Foods Ltd.- Veterinary Student Representative
• Master of Science (MSc.) Animal Welfare & Behaviour
• Fish Nutrition Laboratory NSERC USRA (National Science and Engineering Research Council Undergraduate Student Research Award)
• Bachelor of Science (BSc.) Animal Biology

Assistant Director, Canine Foundations' Training Academy

Laurie Glencross is the Assistant Director of the Canine Foundations’ Training Academy and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer with over 30 years of experience working with dogs in both sport and companion settings. Laurie specializes in reward-based training techniques, applying modern, science-backed methods to help dogs and their handlers build strong, trusting relationships.

Laurie’s background includes decades of involvement and training in competitive dog sports including agility, obedience, scent detection, and rally obedience, earning numerous titles including grand champion and master champion titles in various organizations. Her dedication to lifelong learning and professional development has led her to pursue learning opportunities with some of North America’s top trainers, including Denise Fenzi and Susan Garrett in their online platforms and training camps, and to continue advanced work in sport foundations, recall, and behaviour shaping.

Laurie’s commitment to education extends beyond her own work with dogs – she is a passionate teacher and mentor to new trainers. A graduate and valedictorian of the Canine Foundations’ Training Academy, Laurie now supports students as an instructor and guide. Her work in training and coaching is rooted in both compassion and clarity, helping others grow their skills and confidence in the field.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Assistant Director – Canine Foundations’ Training Academy
• Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)
• Valedictorian – Canine Foundations’ Dog Training Academy (Georgian College, 2021)
• Certified Trick Dog Instructor, Trainer of the Year – Do More With Your Dog
• Sport and Obedience Foundations Certificates – Fenzi Dog Sports Academy
• Alumni Member – Susan Garrett’s Recallers Program
• Graduate – Canine Foundations’ Canine Attendant Training Program 

Competitive Titles Held In:

• Agility – AAC Agility Trial Champion of Canada (ATChC), AKC Master Agility Champion (MACH), CPE Agility Trial Champion (CATCh)
• Rally Obedience – CARO Master Champion, CKC Rally Excellent (RE), AKC Rally Advanced Excellent (RAE)
• Scent Detection – SDDA Master Champion and Games Champion Titles
  11th Place – 2019 SDDA Nationals, Brenda Brown Award Winner (Highest Scoring Working Breed)
• Obedience – Titles in CKC and AKC
• Trick Dog – Grand Champion Trick Dog, Champion Trick Puppy

Professional Memberships:

• Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
• Canadian Association of Professional Dog Trainers (CAPDT)
• Canadian Kennel Club (CKC)
• Sporting Detection Dogs Association (SDDA)
• Canadian Association of Rally Obedience (CARO)
• American Kennel Club (AKC)
• Agility Association of Canada (AAC)

Canine Behaviour Consultant 

Jessica O’Neill brings over 15 years of experience in canine behaviour, rehabilitation, and public education. With a Diploma in Canine Behaviour Science & Technology and accreditation through the Companion Animal Science Institute, Jessica is recognized for her innovative, evidence-based approach to canine emotional and behavioural wellness. Her expertise lies in developing humane, effective protocols that support both the emotional welfare of dogs and the human-canine bond.

She is a passionate advocate for responsible dog ownership, bite prevention, and service animal training. Jessica has worked with veterans and active military personnel to train and evaluate service dogs for individuals with invisible injuries and disabilities. Her expertise is regularly sought by clinicians, conservation authorities, and municipal groups, and she serves as an expert witness in canine behaviour cases before the Ontario Provincial Court.

Jessica is a published author, speaker, and curriculum developer with a focus on rehabilitation, family safety, and public education. She has been featured in Reader’s Digest, The Wall Street Journal, CTV, CBC, and more. Her debut book, Parenting Your Canine Child, was released in 2023. She also contributes to national training standards as Chair of the Professional Standards & National Curriculum Committee for the Canadian Association of Professional Dog Trainers and provides mentorship and education across North America.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Diploma in Canine Behaviour Science & Technology
• Accredited Dog Trainer – IAABC
• Trauma & Violence Informed Care Foundations (2024)
• Canine Nutrition & Health (2024)
• Provincial Court Recognized Expert Witness in Dog Assessment, Behaviour and Training
• Published Author – Parenting Your Canine Child (2023)
• Chair – Professional Standards & National Curriculum Committee, CAPPDT
• Municipal Animal Shelter Behaviour Consultant
• Developer of Public Education Programs on Canine Safety and Rehabilitation

Canine Behaviour Consultant | Service Dog Specialist | Bilingual Trainer

Nicole Lapratte is a Certified Canine Behaviour Consultant (CBCC-KA) through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT®️) and the founder of Chien ZEN Dog. Fully bilingual in French and English, she provides accessible behaviour consulting services across the Ottawa Valley areas in Ontario and the Gatineau area in Québec, offering online, hybrid, and in-person programs designed to meet the needs of diverse families and communities.

With over a decade of experience in canine behaviour, Nicole is recognized for her compassionate, client tailored and evidence-based approach rooted in her philosophy of "Listening to the Whispers", attuning to subtle canine communication to guide both effective interventions and client education. She has extensive expertise in fear, aggression and multi-dog household dynamics, empowering owners to strengthen trust and foster lasting behavioural change.

Nicole is also an accomplished service dog trainer, having been part of a team that developed a Service Dog Training Program for the Department of National Defense. She continues to contribute to the advancement of professional standards in Canada as Vice-Chair of the Service Dog Committee and a member of the Professional Standards & National Curriculum Council for the Canadian Association of Professional Dog Trainers (CAPDT).

Her work bridges direct client support with professional mentorship, making her a trusted resource for families, trainers, and organizations seeking specialized guidance in canine behaviour and service dog training.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Certified Canine Behaviour Consultant – Knowledge Assessed (CBCC-KA), CCPDT®️
• Founder – Chien ZEN Dog
• Vice-Chair – Service Dog Committee, Canadian Association of Professional Dog Trainers (CAPDT)
• Member – Professional Standards & National Curriculum Council, CAPDT
• Member – Canadian Association of Professional Dog Trainers (CAPDT)
• Member – Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT)
• Member – International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)
• Member – Canadian Association of Service Dog Trainers (CASDT)
• Graduate – Aggression in Dogs Master Course, Michael Shikashio
• Certified – Avidog Puppy Evaluation Test (APET) Litter Assessments
• Specialist in Canine Fear, Aggression, and Service Dog Training
• Bilingual Behaviour Consultant – offering services in both French and English

Obedience Trainer

Christina is a dedicated animal advocate with a lifelong passion for animal welfare. Holding a Bachelor of Science with a double major in Marine and Wildlife Biology, she blends her scientific expertise with hands-on experience as a Registered Veterinary Technician. Christina is also a faculty member at Seneca College, where she imparts her knowledge and passion for animal care to the next generation of Veterinary Technicians and Veterinary Assistants.

In addition to her veterinary career, Christina is a certified dog trainer through the Georgian College Training Academy, holding a CPDT-KA certification. She specializes in positive reinforcement techniques, helping to foster strong, healthy relationships between pets and their families. Christina’s commitment to animal welfare extends to her own home, where she shares her life with four beloved dogs, two of whom are certified therapy dogs. Together, they volunteer with St. John’s Ambulance, offering comfort and joy to individuals in need.

Christina is also deeply involved in volunteer work, including with a Community Veterinary Outreach program, where she provides essential veterinary care to individuals experiencing homelessness. Her professional and volunteer efforts encompass a wide range of animals, from rodents and farm animals to domestic pets. Christina’s life is dedicated to improving the well-being of animals and inspiring others to experience the profound joy that comes from working with them.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Certified Trainer through the CCPDT (Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers) - Knowledge Assessed
• Graduate of the Georgian College Canine Foundations Training Academy 
• Registered Veterinary Technician through the OAVT (Ontario Association of Veterinary Technicians)
• Instructor for Seneca College Veterinary Technician Program
• Graduate of Seneca College Veterinary Technician Program 
• Fear Free Certified
• Canine Emergency First Aid Certified 
• Instructor for Canine Foundations' Canine Emergency First Aid Course 

Behaviour Consultant & Course Instructor

Yvonne is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge & Skills Assessed (CPDT-KSA) with the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). With over 10 years in the animal field, Yvonne is an active participant in various dog sports and holds multiple titles on owned, handled and trained dogs in Rally Obedience, Obedience, Tricks and Scent Detection with multiple placements and high in classes.

Professional trained and working as a social service worker for over 11 years, Yvonne truly understands how to tailor a training program to the needs of the dog and family. True to her passion, she specializes in working with dogs who have both physical and cognitive disabilities and neophobias. As both a local and international presenter, Yvonne enjoys both one to one teaching and large group learning.

Yvonne’s love for dogs compels her to take on a very active role with several canine rescue groups and not-for-profit organizations such as the Humane Society Hastings Prince Edward, Freedom Drivers and Last Chance K9 Rescue.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Apprenticed under Julie Speyer, Owner and Head Behaviour Consultant of Canine Foundations
• Board of Directors Member for The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers - elected in 2016 - Retired in 2020
• Provincial Court Recognized Expert Witness in Dog Assessment - Behaviour and Training - Qualified in 2019
• Scent Detection Judge - Sporting Detection Dogs Association (SDDA)
• Scent Detection Judge - Canadian Kennel Club (CKC)
• Canine Good Neighbour (CGN) Evaluator - Canadian Kennel Club (CKC)
• Certified Trick Dog Instructor - Do More With Your Dog
• Certified Stunt Dog Judge - Do More With Your Dog
• 4-time All-Star Trainer of the Year - Do More With Your Dog
• Platinum Winner of the 2020 & 2021 Belleville Votes for favorite Dog Trainer
• 2018 OSPCA Chair's Award Honourable Mention (Runner Up) Winner - Presented to an individual who goes above and beyond to make an outstanding contribution to Animal Welfare in the community
• Professional Member of The Canadian Association of Professional Pet Dog Trainers
• Member of the Canadian Kennel Club
• Registered Participant of the Sport Detection Dogs Association
• Instructor at Mr Spot Dog Camp Kingston 2018 & 2019
• Instructor of Canine Foundations’ Canine Behaviour Series Courses, Professional Certification Courses and Canine Foundations’ Training Academy at Georgian College
• Round Table Facilitator at the 2018 Association of Professional Dog Trainers Conference - Memphis, TN
• Social Service Worker Diploma from Sir Sandford Fleming College

• Holds certificates in;

• • Canine Theriogenology from the University of Minnesota
  • Animal Behaviour and Welfare from the University of Edinburgh
  • Animal Behaviour from the University of Melbourne
  • SIRIUS Dog Trainer Academy – Dr. Ian Dunbar
  • GROWL Class – for Reactive Dogs – Dr. Ian Dunbar

• Competitive titles and certifications held in;

• • CKC & CARO Rally Obedience (Excellent level and multiple placements and high in classes)
  • SDDA & CKC Scent Detection (Master Champion Level – 12th team worldwide to achieve this title, multiple placements and all levels achieved as gold scores – 96% or higher). Placed 6^th at the first-ever SDDA Nationals held in Campbellville, Ontario from over 100 teams with a ‘borrowed’ dog
  • DMWYD & CKC Trick Dog Titles including Champion Trick Dog
  • Herding Instinct Certification
  • CKC Canine Good Neighbour

Certified Professional Dog Trainer | Owner, Ace Canine Academy Assistant Instructor & Secondary Handler – Canine Foundations

Amit Barran is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) and the owner of Ace Canine Academy, where he specializes in building confident, resilient dogs through evidence-based, humane training practices. A graduate of the Canine Foundations Training Academy at Georgian College, Amit brings together strong technical knowledge, practical handling skills, and a thoughtful, client-centered approach to behaviour change.

Amit works with dogs across a wide range of needs, from early puppy development and foundational obedience to more complex behavioural concerns including reactivity, fear-based behaviours, aggression, and separation-related challenges. His training philosophy emphasizes clarity, consistency, and emotional safety, supporting both dogs and handlers in developing reliable skills that hold up in real-world environments.

Known for his calm presence and structured teaching style, Amit excels at breaking down complex behaviour concepts into practical, achievable steps for owners and professionals alike. His programs are designed not only to address immediate behaviour concerns, but also to strengthen long-term communication, confidence, and handler understanding.

In addition to his private training work, Amit is a contracted Assistant Instructor and Secondary Handler with Canine Foundations, supporting continuing education programming and animal shelter training initiatives. In this role, he assists with hands-on instruction, practical handling components, and professional skills development for animal care staff and trainees.

Amit is currently mentoring under Julie Speyer (CDBC, CPDT-KA, SDC), further refining his expertise in applied behaviour analysis, ethical behaviour modification, and professional training standards within municipal, shelter, and companion-animal contexts.

QUALIFICATIONS & CREDENTIALS

• CPDT-KA – Certified Professional Dog Trainer (Knowledge Assessed)
• Graduate, Canine Foundations Training Academy (Georgian College)
• Certified in Canine Emergency First Aid
• Assistant Instructor & Secondary Handler, Canine Foundations
• Mentored by Julie Speyer, CDBC, CPDT-KA, SDC
• Owner & Lead Trainer, Ace Canine Academy

First Aid and Animal Handling Course Instructor

Sarah Campbell has been a Certified Canine First Aid and Animal Handling Instructor for Canine Foundations for over 4 years and assisted in writing Air Canada’s Animal Handling course.  She currently works full time as the Veterinary Technician and Clinic Manager for North Point Veterinary Hospital with over 14 years of experience as an office administrator and veterinary assistant.  Sarah’s experience and expertise coupled with her knowledge as a Veterinary Technician makes her an extremely valuable asset to the Canine Foundations team.

In addition to her work with Canine Foundations and North Point Veterinary Hospital Sarah has also been an active Animal Care Volunteer for the Brampton Animal Shelter for over 17 years.

• Co-writer of Air Canada’s Animal Handling course
• Instructor of Canine Foundations’ Canine First Aid course
• Instructor of Air Canada’s Live Animal Handling course
• Veterinary Clinic Manager
• Veterinary Technician
• Veterinary Assistant
• Animal Care Volunteer for the Brampton Animal Shelter

Self Defense, ASP Expandable Baton & OC Munitions Instructor

Andrew Martin Speyer brings over 25 years of diverse experience to Canine Foundations, with a comprehensive background in the Military, Corrections, law enforcement, adult education, and Sport Dog/Gundog training. Martin served in the Canadian Armed Forces for 14 years, where he gained extensive tactical and operational experience. Following his military career, he worked in Corrections and has been a Defensive Tactics Instructor for Military, Corrections, Police, and Private Agencies, providing tactical-level training for both governmental and non-governmental agencies.

In addition to his diverse tactical training background, Martin is a Certified Use of Force Instructor and holds certifications as an ASP Expandable Baton and OC Aerosol Projectors Instructor, accredited by Armament Systems and Procedures, Inc. and Safariland Training Group/Defence Technology. His deep understanding of defensive tactics, combined with his broad teaching expertise, enables him to provide highly effective, hands-on training to professionals in a variety of fields.

Martin’s knowledge of health and safety, along with his real-world experience performing Human Emergency First Aid in the field, further enhances his ability to deliver comprehensive, life-saving training. His wealth of experience and ability to engage students with practical, real-world examples makes him an invaluable asset to Canine Foundations. Martin's approach to teaching captivates and motivates students, ensuring they gain both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for success in their respective fields.

Self Defense, Animal Law, ASP Expandable Baton & OC Munitions Instructor

Andrew Reynolds brings over 30 years of law enforcement experience to Canine Foundations’ Continuing Education team, offering a diverse and extensive background in areas such as investigations, martial arts, defensive tactics, situational de-escalation, court procedures, and defensive weapons training. As a highly qualified Use of Force instructor, Andrew has developed a comprehensive approach to training that emphasizes both safety and effectiveness in high-stress, real-world scenarios.

In addition to his Use of Force expertise, Andrew is a Certified ASP Expandable Baton and OC Aerosol Projectors Instructor, with certifications from Armament Systems and Procedures, Inc., and Safariland Training Group/Defence Technology. His knowledge and experience in these areas enable him to teach essential skills for managing force situations with precision, control, and confidence, ensuring his students are well-prepared for any challenges they may face in the field.

Andrew’s extensive understanding of Municipal, Provincial, and Federal laws, coupled with his expertise in report writing, crown brief development, evidence collection, and legislation development, makes him a valuable asset to Canine Foundations. His well-rounded experience allows him to provide training that not only enhances practical skills but also emphasizes the critical legal frameworks that underpin those skills.

Andrew’s dedication to ongoing professional development, passion for high-quality training, and ability to equip students with the tools they need to succeed make him a vital member of the Canine Foundations team. His real-world experience and commitment to excellence ensure that clients receive education that is both relevant and grounded in law enforcement realities.

Self Defense & ASP Expandable Baton Instructor

As a Correctional Officer, Shayne White was responsible for the care, custody, and control of maximum-security Provincial and Federal inmates, ensuring both the safety of staff and the secure management of incarcerated individuals. Shayne’s role extended beyond daily duties, as he was a key member of the Institutional Crisis Intervention Team (ICIT). In this capacity, he was called upon to respond to and manage critical incidents, such as disturbances and security breaches, within the institution. His experience also included overseeing high-risk escorts, ensuring the safe transport of inmates both within the institution and to external locations, such as courts and medical facilities. Additionally, Shayne played a critical role in the collection and tracking of evidence, contributing to investigations and supporting the Provincial and Federal court systems.

Shayne is a Certified ASP Expandable Baton Instructor, accredited by Armament Systems and Procedures, Inc., and brings a wealth of knowledge in defensive tactics, situational de-escalation, and environmental awareness to Canine Foundations’ Corporate Training team. His training focuses on providing practical, hands-on techniques that prepare individuals to manage high-pressure, high-risk situations with confidence and safety. Shayne’s expertise also extends to self-defense strategies, helping clients understand and apply effective methods of personal and professional protection.

With a strong foundation in crisis management, security protocols, and tactical response, Shayne is committed to delivering training that blends theoretical knowledge with real-world application, ensuring that students are prepared to handle the challenges they may face in their respective roles.

Amanda Barrett is a highly accomplished Municipal Law Enforcement Officer with over 20 years of experience in animal welfare, law enforcement, and animal protection. Specializing in municipal by-laws, the Dog Owner’s Liability Act (DOLA), and Animal Welfare laws within Ontario, Amanda is widely regarded as an expert in her field. Her career includes significant roles in enforcement, veterinary medicine, animal shelter operations, and animal care management, where she has demonstrated leadership and a deep commitment to ensuring public safety and animal welfare.

With a post-secondary education in Veterinary Technology, Amanda brings a unique combination of technical knowledge and practical experience to her work. Her expertise in interpreting and enforcing complex legal frameworks has made her a trusted authority in animal protection law. She is skilled in navigating the nuances of animal welfare regulations and effectively addressing legal challenges in her community.

As a seasoned trainer and subject matter expert, Amanda excels at delivering engaging and impactful training sessions. She is highly adept at translating complex legal concepts into clear, actionable information, ensuring law enforcement officers, animal care professionals, and organizations gain a comprehensive understanding of animal welfare laws and best practices. Amanda's dedication to education and her passion for animal welfare make her an invaluable asset to any organization focused on improving standards of safety and compliance. 

QUALIFICATIONS

• Behaviour Management in a Shelter- Pacific University
• OSPCA Agent and Inspector
• Municipal By-Law Officer
• Manager Animal Protective Services
• Supervisor Animal Services
• Member of ASPO (Animal Shelter Professionals of Ontario)
• Member of MLEOA (Municipal Law Enforcement Officers’ Association)
• Member of NACA (National Animal Care & Control Association)
• Expert Panel Member for HASS for Field Services Stream (Human Animal Support Services)
• Subject matter Expert and trainer of Dog Owner’s Liability Act
• Municipal Law Enforcement Canine 101 & K9 Self Defense- Canine Foundations