The AKC Patriotic Puppy Program Is Coming to My Training Grounds

This November 1-2, I’ll be welcoming the AKC Patriotic Puppy Program to the Nose Dog Detection Services training facility at the Historic Wendover Airfield Museum. It’s a special opportunity for me, not only to contribute as an instructor, but also to host this program in the place where I’ve built Nose Dog Detection Services.

Why This Program Matters

There is a growing national need for high-quality detection dogs, and the AKC Patriotic Puppy Program is helping to meet that demand. The program supports breeders, trainers, and handlers in raising dogs capable of working in the most demanding real-world environments.

At Nose Dog Detection Services, everything I do, breeding, raising, and training, comes back to one mission: preparing dogs and people to succeed in detection work. Putting the right dog in the right hands changes more than one career; it strengthens public safety and builds lasting teams. That’s why I’m proud to support the AKC Patriotic Puppy Program and share what I’ve learned along the way.

Training Where History Lives

The Wendover Airfield is the most authentically preserved WWII Army Air Force base in the country. Hosting the AKC Patriotic Puppy Program here is more than symbolic—it connects today’s mission with the service and sacrifice of the past.

It’s also where I’ve built the training facility for Nose Dog Detection Services. Week after week, I work dogs here and see how the environment shapes them. The wide-open spaces, shifting winds, and real-world distractions make this airfield an ideal training ground. It challenges both dogs and handlers in ways that prepare them for success far beyond the classroom.

What We’ll Be Working On

Alongside Stacey West, Program Manager for the AKC Patriotic Puppy Program, I’ll be helping participants dive into hands-on training and theory. We’ll focus on:

• Building drive and search behaviors while preserving enthusiasm

• Introducing dogs to thoughtful environmental challenges

• Applying learning theory in real-time searches

• Supporting raisers, breeders, and trainers as they develop each dog’s full potential

This seminar is designed to be practical. We’ll be troubleshooting in the moment, offering feedback, and giving participants tools they can put to use immediately.

Why I’m Excited

Through Nose Dog Detection Services, my mission has always been to develop capable, confident dogs and help handlers grow alongside them. Hosting the AKC Patriotic Puppy Program at my home facility brings that mission full circle—blending history, education, and the future of detection work all in one place.

Every time I step into a program like this, I’m reminded of the bigger picture. Each handler who gains new confidence, each dog that leaves more prepared, creates ripples that extend far beyond a single weekend. That’s how we strengthen the future of detection teams.

I can’t wait to see familiar faces, meet new ones, and share my home training grounds with the AKC Patriotic Puppy Program. It’s going to be a remarkable weekend of learning, connection, and purpose.