Our Story

Samantha (Sam) Giacalone is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA), a CATCH Canine Trainers Academy Certified Dog Trainer (CCDT), an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, and a Fear Free Certified Professional

I am a certified dog trainer, earning my CPDT-KA desigantion after graduating from CATCH Canine Trainers Academy, where I earned the Certified Dog Trainer title. I am is also a graduate of San Juan College’s Veterinary Assistant Program.

I am a proud member of national clubs including the Association of Professional Dog Trainers and German Shorthaired Pointer Club of America. And local clubs including the Greater Orange Park Dog Club, Pals and Paws Agility, and K-9 Obedience Club. I am also an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator and Fear Free Certified Professional.

I stays current on both dog and cat First Aid and CPR protocols. I am always expanding my dog training and behavior knowledge through continuing education opportunities.

I have worked in multiple small animal veterinary practices, as a Veterinary Assistant, since 2010, solidifying my love for dogs (and cats).

I have always had at least one dog in my house and has enjoyed training them all as a hobbyist. There have been many great trainers in her life, who all helped me learn a new technique and refine my skills to help our dogs excel in obedience, tricks, and beginning dog sports.

Nellie (T-N-T’s Dancing Star NAP OJP ACT1 CGCA TKI) has been part of the team since Nellie’s puppy hood, 9 years ago. Together, we have traveled across the country, taken part in many group obedience classes, and enjoy agility classes. Nellie has earned her AKC Community Canine Good Citizen Title, as well as her Do More With Your Dog & AKC Novice and Intermediate Trick Dog Titles. Nellie is ready to add more titles to her name by competing in AKC Agility, and she continues to teach me more about dogs every day. Cancer (lymphoma) can’t stop this lady! She is over 2 years in remission and doing amazing!

Mr. Mango (T-N-T's Ghost Water RA BCAT ACT1 CGC TKA) is the middle child in the Whoa Nellie crew. Mango has earned his Do More With Your Dog & AKC Novice, Intermediate, & Advanced Trick Dog Titles - all before he turned 6 months old! He LOVES Scent Work & is a well-rounded family member! He is enjoying his newest sports of Rally and Obedience and is the namesake for our boarding facility, Mango’s Dog Boarding.

Meet Peach! (Woodlyn The Sweet Cide RA CGCA TKI) Peach is the newest addition to the Whoa Nellie crew. She is a 2 year old German Shorthaired Pointer. Peach has earned her AKC S.T.A.R Puppy, Rally Advanced, Community Canine Good Citizen, & Intermediate Trick Dog Title. Peach has big plans - she is going to compete in Rally, Obedience, and Agility, show in conformation, and be a great representation of her breed!