Meet Your MLK9 Trainers

Eight years as a police officer in Northern Kentucky, working directly with K9s. Sam has handled a black Labrador and currently a German Shepherd, both dual-purpose dogs deployed in real-world situations. Before launching MLK9 Kentucky, Sam trained pet dogs at Ridgeside K9, building a strong foundation in family-dog obedience and behavior. In 2025 he connected with Mike Lilley at a K9s United Conference and, after seeing proven results with his own dog, joined the MLK9 team.

Train with Sam

Twenty-two years as a firefighter paramedic, including time as a SWAT team medic. In 2025 JP trained Calvin, a black Lab, for human remains detection and search-and-rescue tracking. JP also trained pet dogs at Ridgeside K9 before launching MLK9 Kentucky alongside Sam, and saw firsthand how elite working-dog principles apply powerfully to family companions.

Train with JP