Tag Archive for: New Faces at WCC

New Faces at WCC – December 2024

Please join us in welcoming three “new faces” to Warrior Canine Connection (WCC). Desiree Kirby, Kayla Prince and Laura Osborne all joined our pack this fall. We’re happy to introduce you to each of them below.

Desiree Kirby, Business & Human Resources Manager

Desiree may be new to our team, but she’s no stranger to WCC; She began raising service dog in training, Dash, last year. Originally from Northeast Ohio, Desiree followed her passion for wildlife and the environment to Maryland, earning her degree in Environmental Science & Policy from the University of Maryland in 2010.

Before joining us, Desiree honed her skills with the U.S. Army at their Veterinary Treatment Facility in Washington and in private practices across Virginia and Maryland. She excelled in leadership, technical management, and creating meaningful relationships within her teams and communities. Desiree’s connection to WCC runs deep, having worked closely with us while at Olney-Sandy Spring Veterinary Hospital.

“The team has been great, everybody has been so welcoming and just a joy to work with, it’s refreshing. I’m just really happy to be here, honestly. Raising a service dog has given me a level of patience that I never knew I had.”

She lives in Germantown with her husband Mike, an animal keeper at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, their Border Collie named Ticket and WCC’s Dash. They also care for an impressive array of reptiles. When not working, you’ll find Desiree hiking, traveling and baking, which she shared is one of her very favorite hobbies. (Cakes and all kinds of cupcakes are her favorite items to bake.)

 

Laura Osborne, Accounting Assistant/Bookkeeper

We’re also excited to welcome Laura Osborne as WCC’s new part-time Accounting Assistant/Bookkeeper. Laura is rejoining the workforce after dedicating 23 years to raising her family, during which she also managed bookkeeping for her husband’s business. Laura attended George Mason University on a track scholarship and earned her economics degree with a concentration in accounting. She brings a keen eye for detail and an organized, proactive approach that will be a great asset to our team.

“It’s a wonderful atmosphere here—I feel welcomed, it’s peaceful, and I love my workspace,” said Laura. “I’ve often ridden my bike past and noticed the sign, and I was drawn to the generous and compassionate mission of supporting Veterans. The work truly makes a difference; the dogs help Veterans find a renewed sense of purpose. I’m proud to be part of this organization, even in a small way.”

Outside of work, Laura enjoys biking, gardening and kayaking. She and husband Dale, who have been married for 25 years, have three children, a German Shepherd, and two cats are active and enthusiastic members of their community. Please join us in welcoming Laura to WCC!

 

Kayla Prince, Veteran Training Program Coordinator

Kayla joined the WCC team in September, bringing a strong background in both psychology and dog training. A Maryland native, she previously worked as a certified dog trainer, specializing in helping family dogs with fear-based behavioral issues. With a degree in psychology from Goucher College and a master’s in social work from the University of Maryland, Kayla was drawn to WCC’s Mission-Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) program as the perfect combination of her background in social work, her passion for dog training, and her belief in the healing power of the Human Animal Bond.

At WCC, Kayla works primarily with the MBTR program at headquarters and at the Platoon Veterans Services Center in Frederick. She also contributes to the MBTR program at the Veterans Treatment Court in Baltimore.

“I love it. I remember calling my friend after the interview and saying this is where I want to be, and I’ve felt the same every day since,” said Kayla. “We’re all a team working towards the same goals of helping veterans. I get to see the positive impact that helping to train the dogs has on our volunteers in each session. Having an office cat (Summer) is a huge perk too!”

When she’s not working, you can find Kayla soaking up the sun at Rehoboth Beach. She also enjoys time with her family, including her two rescue cats, Morgan and Watson, who she’s even trained using clicker training.



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New Faces at WCC: Sarah Peltzer

Warrior Canine Connection would like to welcome Sarah Peltzer to our pack! Sarah joined us on as a Breeding Assistant in July. Born and raised in Frederick, Md., Sarah has always been surrounded by animals and developed a deep connection with them early on. Her passion for animals led her to actively participate in 4-H and FFA, where she bred and showed dairy goats. Sarah continued to pursue her love for animals by earning a bachelor’s degree in animal science from the University of Maryland, College Park earlier this year.

During her time at UMD, Sarah worked at the Maryland State Fair Birthing Center, where she educated the public on animal reproduction and birthing processes. Her hands-on experience there, which included assisting in the delivery of piglets, calves and chicks, solidified her interest in reproductive science. When the opportunity arose to join WCC, Sarah knew it was the perfect fit.

“I’ve been loving it—the team is great,” said Sarah. “Being part of getting these dogs into life and seeing how they progress is incredibly rewarding. I can’t wait to see how far they come and how they go on to serve others.”

Sarah has already been hands-on in welcoming new litters, having been involved in the birth of two litters since she started.

Outside of work, Sarah enjoys reading, listening to music, and spending time with her long-time feline companion, Tonks. We’re excited to have Sarah on board and look forward to all the wonderful contributions she’ll make to our team!

 

New Faces at WCC: Deborah Logan, Service Dog Training Apprentice

We are thrilled to welcome Deborah Logan to the WCC team! Deborah joined us as a Service Dog Training Apprentice in June and will be instrumental in running MBTR sessions and training WCC service dogs. 

Deborah’s journey with WCC began when she met one of the original service dogs, WCC’s Cadence. As a volunteer puppy parent during her college years, she demonstrated her dedication to our mission. Recently, she graduated from the University of Maryland with a bachelor’s degree in animal science and even helped establish a new WCC training club at UMD. Deborah is passionate about continuing Cadence’s legacy and is eager to start her new role, using her love for dogs to positively impact Veterans’ lives.

“I’ve seen firsthand the impact service dogs can have on a Veteran, as well as their entire family,” said Deborah. “I’m excited to work for an organization I’ve been supporting for years and to learn and grow as a trainer.” 

Outside of work, Deborah enjoys hiking with her black Lab, Oasis, and Sherri, the third WCC service dog in training she’s raising. We’re excited to have her on board and look forward to the great work she will do with WCC! 

New Faces at WCC: Val Skinner

The WCC pack is excited to welcome new service dog training instructor Valerie “Val” Skinner to its team! 

Val came on board in April and is working at WCC’s Healing Quarters in Boyds, where she is responsible for the evaluation and skill refinement of on-site service dogs in training and advanced training dogs. She will also support puppy parents and puppy development. 

“I joined WCC because I really love working with Veterans,” said Val. “They’re relatable, down-to-earth and aren’t here for any other reason than to help make their lives and others’ better. I really appreciate all the time and efforts they put into the training the dogs for these important placements.” 

An experienced dog trainer, Val has spent several decades training dogs, beginning with a rescue and placement organization for Rottweilers, followed by several years working with another ADI-accredited service dog organization. Val received her education and training at Bergin University.  

When not working, Val enjoys going to the beach, spending time outdoors and cooking up some BBQ with her family. 

Please join us in welcoming Val to the WCC team! 

New Faces at WCC: Leilani Shore and Riley Spickler

Please join us in welcoming two new members to the WCC pack! Both Leilani Shore, puppy program outreach coordinator, and Riley Spickler, puppy development assistant, joined WCC in December helping to fulfill important roles — learn more about out new team members!

Leilani Shore, Puppy Program Outreach Coordinator

An animal lover at heart, Leilani has always gravitated to dogs and horses. While attending Ohio University, she also worked for an equine program that supported Veterans through therapeutic horsemanship.

After graduating with a dual bachelor’s in psychology and animal science, she went on to work for an equine program that provided support for kids in foster care. She then worked for an animal biotech company that provided at-home cat DNA tests; the results are used to give owners a comprehensive report on their cats.

When she saw the opening at WCC for a Puppy Program Outreach Coordinator, it was one she knew she couldn’t pass up.

“I love my job,” said Leilani. “It’s not very often people can say that.”

Although still new to the role, Leilani works directly with WCC’s Puppy Parent program to help recruit new volunteers and support those already providing crucial aid and care for its service dogs in training.

“The Puppy Parents are awesome … it’s amazing that people are willing to volunteer their time and do what it takes to raise these dogs for us; we couldn’t do what we do without our Puppy Parents,” said Leilani. “I’m always in awe of them with how they sacrifice their time for us and help us out.”

When not working, Leilani enjoys spending time with her two dogs, Luna and Rosco, and her two horses, Ramsey and Maverick.

 

Riley Spickler, Puppy Development Assistant

Also joining WCC in December is Riley Spickler, our new Puppy Development Assistant. In her role, Riley works in WCC’s puppy department and helps with the socialization and care of WCC’s older pups and eventually be taking on the position of boots rank instructor.

A Maryland native, Riley graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park, with a bachelor’s in animal and avian sciences. During her sophomore year, she helped co-raise and sit service dogs for the Guide Dog Foundation and has spent countless hours walking and pet sitting dogs since then. She was also very involved in her campus ministry during college and loves connecting with new people.

“I have had a long-time dream of working with Veterans and service dogs, so this job is a perfect combination of both,” said Riley.

Riley’s supervisor says she has made an immediate impact in her new role.

Outside of work, Riley can often be found attending University of Maryland basketball games, spending time with friends and she also hosts trivia at a local brewery.

New Faces at WCC

We are excited to welcome a new member to the WCC pack! Cathlene Kirkpatrick joined our team last month as a service dog training instructor based at our Healing Quarters in Boyds, Maryland.

Cathlene brings several years of service dog training experience with her; she worked at another nonprofit for five years before joining WCC, noting that she wanted to support Veterans and WCC’s No-Fail Mission.

Cathlene grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, and earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of North Georgia. She says she set out to be a veterinarian but changed her major to focus on animal-assisted therapy. However, during her studies, she concentrated her degree on canine-assisted therapy, focusing on canine cognition and assisting people with disabilities.

Military service runs in Cathlene’s family; both of her grandfathers served, one in the Army, the other in the Navy; her brother is a Navy Chief, and her brother-in-law is in the Marine Corps.

In fact, it was while Cathlene was in high school that her brother, Michael, deployed to Afghanistan, that she says she fully understood the sacrifices and service our members of the military make. As a result, she became very passionate about finding ways to support our Veterans and their care and is thrilled to have joined the WCC team in May.

“It’s been a lot to take in, but I already love all the dogs, they’re incredibly well-bred, and I love the dedication all the Puppy Parents have — it’s really nice to see that,” said Cathlene. “Even though we’re ultimately training the dogs to serve a Veteran, they’re already having an impact through MBTR during the process. That’s very much what drew me in.”

Besides being new to WCC and the state of Maryland, Cathlene was also recently married (March) to her husband, Kevin. So Cathlene will be “Cathlene Holloran” in a couple of months after all the paperwork is finalized. They’re both dog lovers and have a Lab-Golden cross named Pax, 6.

When not working, Cathlene enjoys cooking (Italian is her favorite), gardening, and photography (especially taking photos of dogs).

Welcome, Cathlene!

New Faces at WCC

Please join us in welcoming two new members to our team!


Kristina Frick
Kristina is the latest service dog training instructor to join our pack. She is based at the National Intrepid Center of Excellence (NICoE0) in Bethesda, where she meets with Service Members and Veterans and help run our Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) training program.

“Although I’m still settling in, I know this work is going to be absolutely rewarding and phenomenal,” said Kristina. “As a member of a military family and community, I’m excited to combine my passion for animals by providing support for Veterans.”

No stranger to the military, Kristina met and married a U.S. Army Foreign Area Officer, John, who gave her the opportunity to literally see the world. She moved 14 times in 24 years, but she was fortunate to enough earn her teaching certification in high school biology and taught off and on while stationed stateside.

Kristina graduated from Southern Illinois University with a bachelor’s in zoology. Her first job after graduation was as a zookeeper at the Houston Zoo. There, she led public animal shows with the birds of prey and educational demonstrations with Texas wildlife, exotic small mammals, nonvenomous reptiles and psittacine birds, and the general husbandry for the animals under her care.

She and her husband have two children, Isabella, 17, and Joshua, 14, and two Boasian street dogs that were rescued while their family was living in Sarajevo during one of John’s deployments.

Stacey Rogers
A Maryland native, Stacey joins WCC as a service dog training instructor from the Baltimore area. She started raising puppies for another organization (she is now raising her 10th puppy) and that’s what led to her interest in a career training dogs. Her experience as a puppy raiser gives her a unique perspective in her work with WCC and its amazing puppy parent volunteers.

“I completely understand what puppy parents go through when they pass the leash for advanced dog training,” said Stacey. “I was always the person bawling my eyes out before, and now I see it from the perspective of being the person taking the leash from the person crying on the other end. It’s helped me in my job to give advice and really relate to what they’re going through.”

Outside of puppy raising, Stacey worked at a dog daycare training facility in Columbia, Md., where she learned about dog behavior, body language and different play styles. Several years later, she began shadowing trainers and began leading group classes and doing 1:1 puppy training — experience that plays an instrumental role in her work teaching WCC’s “Boots” classes for puppies six months and under.

When not working, Stacey enjoys hiking with a combination of her four dogs, three of which are pets, and the puppy in training, which she is caring for until February 2023. She also enjoys participating in nose work with her Golden Retriever, Vito.

New Faces at WCC

Warrior Canine Connection’s pack has grown! We are excited to introduce you to two new members of our team.

Michele Tate
Michele joined WCC in mid-November 2021 as a service dog training instructor at WCC’s program in Asheville, North Carolina. She has vast experience working with a wide variety of breeds and temperaments, as well as service and rescue organizations. In her role, she will oversee the puppy program and work closely with WCC’s highly valued puppy parents.

Michele graduated from the University of North Dakota with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. She then received her training at Starmark Dog Training Academy, where she specialized in task training and behavior modification.

Prior to coming to WCC, Michele spent four years working with service dogs and Veterans, so this is not new territory to her. She says the military population is one she’s always been interested in supporting, as she has a partner who is a Veteran and family members who are Veterans and active-duty Service Members.

“It’s been amazing to see how quickly WCC’s purpose-bred dogs pick up on skills, how calm and easy going they are,” said Michele. “Of course, they have well-rounded lives with puppy parents, exposure to people, sounds, and other stimuli from the time they’re only a few weeks old and then formalized training … but it’s been magical to watch that come together.”

Michele has two dogs, Brin and Red, and when not at WCC, she enjoys swimming, riding her bike, cooking, and reading.

 

Suzanne Brown
In late November, we also welcomed Suzanne Brown as a service dog training instructor who will work in a part-time capacity at our Healing Quarters in Boyds, Maryland. Suzanne graduated from the Coast Guard Academy with a bachelor’s in Naval Architecture & Marine Engineering, and she earned advanced engineering degrees at the University of Michigan. She served over 25 years active duty in the U.S. Coast Guard before retiring as a Captain in 2020.

Suzanne has volunteered at WCC for the past few years and served in almost every volunteer role from whelping/puppy watcher to puppy parent and she helped coordinate WCC’s Inaugural Ruff Mutter event.

She has extensive experience with the MBTR program, where she discovered her passion for training service dogs, both as a participant and running WCC’s Extended Veteran Program for fellow Veterans who complete the MBTR program and want to continue training service dogs for fellow Veterans.

“I came to know WCC at a really rough time in my life and they really helped me through that,” says Suzanne. “I have seen firsthand the impact that working with the dogs has as well as the difference a service dog can make on a Veteran’s life. WCC’s programs, both the placement of service dogs and utilizing military members and Veterans to help train the service dogs in training, have not only helped me but so many military members and Veterans in their recovery process. Those invisible wounds are real and it’s hard to explain but the dogs have such a tremendously positive impact. I came in at the right time, and now I want to actively help others through WCC’s mission.”

Outside of work, Suzanne enjoys spending time with Baxter, her 14-year-old pet Golden Retriever. Suzanne also used to compete in triathlons and says she is focusing on becoming more active. Suzanne is also a volunteer coach for adaptive/para-swimming and triathlons.

New Faces at WCC

Please join Warrior Canine Connection in welcoming the newest member of its pack—Freddy Galea!

Pictured here with his beautiful family, Freddy joined WCC as its new part-time Digital Communications Specialist in April. In his role, Freddy will use his photo and video journalism expertise to help WCC share its powerful stories of using the human-animal bond to assist Service Members and Veterans with visible and invisible wounds.

Freddy is a member of the U.S. Air Force Reserves at Joint Base Andrews, where he focuses on air transportation and logistics. He also runs his own media company that specializes in video production work and is currently pursuing a degree in graphic communications at the University of Maryland.

He says he came to WCC for an opportunity to marry his professional media skills with a personal passion to help fellow Service Members and Veterans.

“I definitely feel like I am on the right team and on the right side of history here at WCC,” said Freddy. “It’s a great place to be and all the people are so educated, friendly, and doing great things. I get to not only see the impact these dogs have but also the people supporting and training them … it’s just great, I love it here.”

Freddy lives nearby in Frederick, Maryland, with his wife, Eliana, their two adorable children, Emma, 5, and Nolan, 2, and their dog, Toby.

Contact Us

14934 Schaeffer Road
Boyds, MD 20841

(T) 301.260.1111
info@warriorcanineconnection.org

Warrior Canine Connection
is a 501(c)(3)
Nonprofit Organization
# 45-2981579