Our Team
Stephanie DeSpain, Owner & Lead Trainer
Stephanie has been an animal lover since she was a small child. Always growing up with dogs throughout her childhood, her passion to find a career working with the furry companions grew. Stephanie worked as a veterinary technician for over 10 years. She experienced everything from ICU and emergency triage to surgery, general medicine, lab work and holistic medicine (acupuncture, chiropractic and herbal medicine). Stephanie eventually decided to complete her dog training certification through CATCH Canine Training Academy so she could start Agape K9 Academy & Resort. Her passion to educate dog owners to help them build lasting bonds with their beloved pets is what fuels her training technique. Stephanie resides in Maine with her 2 furry friends, Katie and Teia.
Atiya Olivas, Assistant Trainer
Atiya has loved animals ever since she was little. Over the past few years, her love for dogs and dog training has grown. Atiya hopes to grow her knowledge of dogs and dog behavior in every way she can, hoping to eventually achieve the goal of becoming a dog trainer. She has helped train her family’s two dogs, and has now taken on the training of her own two faithful companions, Koda and Xenna.
Michele Landry, Gym Manager
Michele was raised across the river in Old Town, and currently resides in Bradley with her husband Shawn and their 2 dogs, Stella and Snoopy. Growing up, the family had a few pets, but Michele’s own pet owning experience started when her older sister moved out and Michele inherited Shadow the cat. Shadow was the best cat ever!! Michele’s love for animals has always been great, and she now sees dogs before she sees their humans.
Michele is an avid hiker, kayaker, mountain biker and quilter/crafter in her “free” time. She enjoys lots of time outside in nature, and is currently hiking New Hampshire’s 4000 ft mountains (all 48 of them).