Hi, I’m Katelyn!
Hi there — I'm so glad you're here! My name is Katelyn, and dogs have been my lifelong passion. Some of my earliest memories are of spending summers at our local veterinary clinic, soaking in every moment, every lesson. Even as a little girl, I knew my future belonged with animals. I never imagined it would take me here — building a community through Best Pals Mobile K9 Training.
My journey began right here in Louisiana, with a brief chapter in Arkansas before I found my way back home. For the past eight years, I’ve devoted myself to truly understanding canine behavior and helping others do the same. While my professional path started in veterinary medicine, I quickly found my calling in animal behavior and training.
As the founder of Best Pals, I’ve turned that calling into something bigger — a mission. I’m proud to serve as an evaluator for Therapy Dogs United, working to increase the number of certified therapy dogs in our area. I believe deeply in their ability to change lives. I’m also a professional member of the International Association of Canine Professionals and an evaluator with the American Kennel Club (AKC) for S.T.A.R. Puppy, Canine Good Citizen (CGC), Community Canine, Urban CGC, Trick Dog, Fit Dog Club, and I’m a certified AKC Fit Dog Instructor.
My training specialty lies in working with aggressive and severely reactive dogs — cases often misunderstood, and sadly, often destined for euthanasia. These dogs hold a special place in my heart. Over the years, I’ve logged countless hours studying under world-renowned trainers and gaining real-world experience in some of the most challenging cases.
Much of my hands-on experience comes from years of work with local rescues and stray rehabilitation. Our own pack includes a few beloved rescue dogs who remind me daily of the resilience and loyalty that lives in every canine heart.
Outside of training, I’m a proud homeschool mom to two amazing girls, ages 13 and 11. Life is full, and beautifully so. When I’m not working with dogs (yours or mine), you’ll find me spending time with my family, kayaking through Louisiana’s waterways, or tending to my ever-growing collection of houseplants.
Each year, I commit to expanding my knowledge of dog behavior through continued education, travel, and mentorships. Whether it’s a seminar, webinar, or hands-on workshop, I’m always learning — because your dog deserves the best.
I can’t wait to walk alongside you and your four-legged friend as we build a stronger bond, better behavior, and a happier life together.
Hey, I’m Yami!
I used to design for brands. Now I design around dogs. Either way — it’s all storytelling.
I help with boarding, support the board & train dogs, and handle our social media behind the scenes. Every single dog that’s come through here has taught me something. Watching them build confidence is one of the best parts of this job — and yeah, it’s always a little sad when they go home.
I’ve learned so much from Katelyn. She’s incredibly knowledgeable about dog behavior and always takes time to explain the why behind everything we do. Her ability to read dogs and guide them as individuals is what makes this place different. Every dog gets their own path.
My background is in graphic design — I’ve been in the field for about seven years, working in branding, print, and digital. But working with dogs has pushed me creatively in ways I never expected. It’s taught me to see the story as it unfolds — and that’s what I try to capture in every post and photo. I’m proud of what these dogs accomplish, and grateful to be part of their journey — and share a bit of it with all of you.
Outside of work, you’ll probably find me hiking, listening to music (like, always), or spending time with my own dogs — Cosmo and Gaia — training, bonding, and just enjoying the quiet.
Anyway… back to posting dog faces!
¡Adiós!
Best Pals’ Approach
We offer a gentle, balanced approach to dog training rooted in positive reinforcement, using luring and shaping to build a strong foundation. One that is flexible and evolves based on each dog’s unique temperament, history, and needs. My philosophy begins in the belief that clear, consistent communication is the cornerstone of successful training. But what does clear communication truly look like?
It begins with defining realistic expectations for our dogs and maintaining consistency in how we guide them. I encourage my clients to approach training with clarity and purpose, setting aside emotion and instead focusing on what their dog needs in order to succeed.
Many behaviors labeled as "stubbornness" are often the result of confusion, not defiance. Most dogs want to do the right thing—they simply don't understand what's being asked of them. We must remember: dogs are a different species, and what feels intuitive to us may be entirely foreign to them.
Our first lesson together will be rich with insights on how to effectively communicate with your canine companion, laying the groundwork for a trusting, respectful, and productive relationship.
Patience and Grace w/ ourselves
You’ll often hear me gently reminding you to extend patience and grace toward yourself. Dog training is a skill—one that doesn’t always come naturally—and it’s perfectly normal to feel uncertain as you learn. Many of us are conditioned to dwell on our missteps: being late, using the wrong cue, or feeling like we’re falling behind. But fixating on mistakes only distracts us from progress. You’re human, and mistakes are part of the process.
As your trainer, I may ask you to unlearn habits that have been ingrained for generations—perhaps even challenge techniques you've relied on your entire life. That can feel uncomfortable at first, but growth often begins there. Throughout your program and beyond, I’ll be right beside you, encouraging you to embrace the learning curve with compassion and confidence.
Consistency for them
Dogs thrive on structure, consistency, and predictability. While their learning processes closely mirror our own, the key difference lies in language—because they don’t speak English, predictability becomes a powerful tool in helping them understand and succeed. Throughout our training, we’ll explore practical and effective ways to bring consistency into your best friend’s daily routine, while also building the skills they need to stay confident and responsive in the ever-changing situations of everyday life.