About K9 Connect

Tanya Baxter
The Head Handler

I was always interested in dogs as a kid. As early as 12 years old I can remember training and walking the neighbourhood dogs. As a youth I was a junior show handler, and competed in (and taught) agility.

After years working in the hospitality industry, I started K9 Connect as a way to get back to doing something I am passionate about. I take a lot of pride in empowering dog owners to build a healthy relationship with their 4-legged family members.

I’ve now been training dogs professionally for over 10 years, and have extensive experience in all fields of animal care and handling.

I also have a soft spot for working with rescue dogs. I’ve worked with rescue dogs of all breeds over the years. This usually involves fostering them while working on basic training, leash manners, and changing any other unwanted behaviours.

Education continues to play an important role in my success working with dogs. I’ve attended many seminars on topics such as behaviour modification, positive training, education on managing reactivity, animal first aid, and finding motivators (among others).

I have a real thirst for ‘dog knowledge’, and I’m always reading the newest science to ensure my training techniques are in line with the research. I am currently working on a ‘Behaviour & Positive Training’ certification, and plan to pursue my interest in canine massage therapy and sports rehabilitation in the near future.

I don’t believe in the ‘Dominance, Obedience, Punishment’ method of dog training. When working with clients, I focus on building a respectful, enjoyable relationship between the owner and their dog.

In fact, I am part of a worldwide network of reputable dog trainers who work together to provide positive, humane methods for altering problematic behaviour in dogs. Together we are working hard to eradicate the idea of training with pain and dominance.

With my training (and your hard work), you will have fun learning the skills you and your pet need to have a long, enjoyable life together.

It’s never too late to start training. If you have a less-than-optimal relationship with your canine friend, get in touch today!

Slynk (2013-2021)
The Frisbee Catcher

Slynk was my pure-bred border collie. He came from a very reputable breeder of ‘working lines’ (dogs bred for traits that allow them to excel in their field).

I selected and bought Slynk very carefully. He was to be a sport and competition dog; unfortunately he suffered a devastating knee injury at 8 months old, and his sport career ended before it began.

Due to the severity of the injury, socializing was difficult. Playing with other dogs was absolutely not allowed. So I adjusted everything in his life to work with his injury.

I learned massage and physiotherapy techniques to keep him comfortable. We focused on what he could do, rather than what he couldn’t. I worked his brain more than his body to tire him out.

It was a long recovery, but he bounced back. I am proud that Slynk was able to do almost any dog activity, albeit not in a competitive setting.

We had a lot of fun together. We played games that work his body and mind in a safe way that fulfills his needs.

Slynk loved disc games and tricks. He was also into agility, dock diving, and basically anything that involves a ball of any kind.

Rest in peace, buddy.

Nugget
The Treat Snarfler

Nugget is a 5 year old, mixed-breed dog who was rescued from the streets of South Korea.

Originally raised to be a ‘meat dog’ slated for human consumption, Nugget was saved by a rescue that purchases dogs away from dog farmers, while helping find the farmers new careers.

Nugget was between 5 and 6 months old when a friend brought her back from South Korea for me. She had never lived in a house before, or among people or dogs who were nice.

Caring for Nugget was a large undertaking, and we learned a lot together. She is extremely sensitive, and during training anything unpleasant puts her off the activity. Luckily she’s very ‘food motivated’, and I how learned to work with her without pushing her comfort boundaries too far. Nugget is still very sensitive, so I always make sure to be properly tuned in to her needs.

Today she is a strong, healthy dog who enjoys off-leash forest walks, treats (she loves them all!), and disc games. She’s learning agility and is starting to show an interest, which has been great for building her confidence around people and other dogs.

Nugget gets along great with her big brother, Slynk, and is a loved member of my family.