Meet Our Team

Meet team taming the wild

Meet Our Team

Our team has dedicated countless hours mastering The Academy for Canine Behavior and Training's approach, as well as studying canine behavior and breed history. By blending this scientific expertise with a warm, supportive environment, we ensure you and your dog are equipped with the tools needed to enjoy a fulfilling life together.

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Nick

Professional Trainer

Nick began working with dogs at just nine years old, training competition foxhounds alongside his father. After graduating from North Pontotoc High School in 2004, he joined the Army and served overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan, working with Military Tactical Explosive Detection K9s.

Following his active-duty service, Nick earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a focus on Homeland Security from the University of Mississippi. He went on to graduate first in his class at the Memphis Police Training Academy and spent three years as a patrol officer in Memphis before returning home to Tupelo, where he served as a dual-purpose Patrol/Narcotics K9 handler on the Street Crimes Unit.

In his free time, Nick enjoys hiking and playing sports with his wife, Emiley, and their five children, Ensley, Ema, Ella, Lucy, and Harrison. He also dedicates time to training his Belgian Malinois, Asia, in obedience and protection work, with the goal of earning a Schutzhund title together one day.

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Madi

Professional Trainer

Since joining the team in 2021, Madi has swiftly advanced from an Animal Care Attendant to the Kennel Manager, and now shines as a Professional Trainer in Tupelo. A true country girl from Munford, Tennessee, Madi's life has always been intertwined with dogs and the great outdoors. Her passion for animals was evident from a young age, leading her to volunteer at shelters and dream of a career that included her furry friends. Madi is thrilled to embrace the Tupelo community and its new faces, but she's particularly excited about discovering new hiking trails to share with her two dogs, Tucker and Raven.

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John

Animal Care Supervisor

John, a proud Tupelo native and passionate animal enthusiast, became a part of our team following nearly five years of dedicated service at a bustling veterinary clinic. His home, a lively sanctuary for an eclectic mix of animals adorned with fur, scales, and feathers, reflects his dream of establishing an animal rehabilitation and sanctuary. When not at work, John is often found skateboarding with friends across Ballard Park or enjoying leisurely walks with his loyal dog, Teddy. Eagerly anticipating the growth of our business, he looks forward to a promising future with our team.

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Gaviona

Animal Care Attendant / Training Apprentice

Gaviona grew up surrounded by dogs, and her passion for working with animals has been a constant throughout her life. She shares her home with her two dogs, Izzy and Draco, and is the go-to pet lover in her extended family. Outside of animal care, Gaviona enjoys hobbies that blend creativity and focus, including archery, bowling, and makeup artistry. Most of all, she values time spent with her family and the animals who have always played a central role in her life.

Learn more about Our Approach

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