Khara Schuetzner, MA, CPDT-KSA, CNWI
Owner and Head Trainer of The Doggie Spot
Khara Schuetzner is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and graduate of the Anti-Cruelty Society’s School of Dog Training. An American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, Khara is also certified in Pet First Aid and CPR, and earned her Nose Work Instructor certification from the National Canine Association of Scent Work. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology from the University of Oklahoma, and a Master of Arts degree in Teaching from National Louis University.
Khara has worked with animals for more than 20 years, and has over 10,000 hours of dog training and animal care experience as a volunteer shelter worker, foster dog parent, and behavioral consultant. She is a professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), a member of the Animal Behavior Society, and a supporting member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. She is a member of North American Police Working Dogs and National Association (NAPWDA) and National Network of Canine Detection Services. Currently, Khara is Vice Chair on the APDT Board.
Khara was born and raised in Shawnee, and at an early age was taught to respect animals by her grandfather, who was a proud member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. From the time she was young, Khara learned about animals by watching and interacting with them. Her family’s cultural traditions continue to form her work as a professional trainer, enabling her to learn from dogs as she teaches them. This deeper insight helps Khara find solutions to behavior problems that align with dogs’ natural inclinations and make owners’ lives easier.
When she’s not training other people’s dogs, Khara enjoys working with her large clan of nine rescue dogs. They range widely in size, age, and breed – from her Argentina street dog to Wolf hybrid Sasha. Khara is working a forensic canine labrador, Blitzkrieg . Some of their special talents include K9 Nose Work, agility, herding, rally, and obedience. Khara also likes hiking, fishing, and traveling with her dogs. For Khara’s continuing Education information please click to download (pdf)
Marcia Koepke – Dog Trainer
Marcia Koepke’s background is diverse with a degree in “Parks and Recreation”. Marcia has been working in the community for many years, and makes connection with everyone she meets. She has been a client with The Doggie Spot for since we open, so making the transition to staff seem like a natural fit. Marica is currently working towards Animal Reiki Instructor Level 1 certification.
Marcia lives with her golden retriever, Cody, 3 cats, and a Koi fish named Spot. Cody and Marcia enjoy family, hiking, flying kites, and nose work together. Marcia’s quote is “I don’t have a quote.” We believe she doesn’t have one, because she truly lives in the moment.
Mercedes Osolin – Groomer
Mercedes Osolin is a certified professional dog groomer and graduate of Unleashed Pet Grooming school. Mercedes was mentored under other groomers for several years. She has groomed dogs, cats, ferret, rats, and rabbits. She knows you have to be patient and caring when grooming furry friends. Mercedes has been working with animals since she was 6 years old.
Mercedes’ current household includes FatCat, 4 snakes, Raven – a rescued Australian Cattle Dog mix, and Presto – a Mini American Shepherd. Mercedes, Raven, and Presto compete in Disc, Herding, Dock Diving, Flyball, and more! They have even competed at worlds! Her goal is to spread awareness to everyone – kids and adults alike – on doing more with your dog. Mercedes quote is “be the hero your dog believes you are.”
Denise Sullivan – Groomer
Denise has over 25 years experience in dog grooming. She has attended workshops to continue her education. Denise enjoys gardening when she’s not making your fur babies beautiful. Her household includes Kaiser (German Shepherd); Boo (Beagle), and Sissy, a Chihuahua/miniature pincher mix.
