About Project K9
Project K9 was originally founded in 2012 by Heather Bruley, a passionate dog lover with a vision.
What started as a small venture quickly grew into something much larger. With each passing year, our reputation spread like wildfire, attracting more and more dog owners seeking our expertise. As demand increased, we knew it was time to expand our horizons. So, we bid farewell to our humble beginnings and found a new home on a sprawling property.
We did have to say goodbye to that property when we relocated down to Hurricane, Utah, nestled near the charming town of St. George. We have upgraded our space in our own home, and it is no ordinary facility—it is warm, inviting, and is a haven where dogs have the love and understanding from our wonderful family and staff. Our commitment to providing exceptional training, board and trains, private lessons, and group classes remains unwavering. We know that by offering these services, we transform the lives of both clients and dogs on a daily basis.
Our goal is simple: we want to assist families in developing positive and peaceful relationships with their dogs. We recognize that each dog is different and needs customized training methods. That’s why we focus on learning what works well for each dog. With complete devotion, we aim to create a secure and supportive setting where you and your dog can succeed.
At Project K9, we believe training should be enjoyable for both you and your furry friend. We make each session fun and exciting so that your dog will look forward to it. We promise to communicate with you honestly and treat your dog with love and care. We’re with you every step of the way, from the moment you come to us until your dog graduates. Our top priority is your satisfaction and your dog’s well-being. Join us on this journey of growth and transformation because we believe that every dog has the potential to shine, and we’re here to help them.
Meet the Project K9 Team
Meet Heather Bruley
Owner and Head Trainer
In 2010, frustrated with my own unruly dog, I sought help from behavior specialists. It opened my eyes to a whole new world. My dog’s obedience was great, but his behavior was out of control and embarrassing. I learned through going through my own dog training journey, and saw great results from this whole new world of behavioral training.
This experience sparked my passion for dog training. I started learning from various sources, attending workshops and learning from successful trainers worldwide. I was eager to help others with their dogs.
We embrace adventures with our dogs, cherishing joyful moments together. They remind us to live in the present, adding to our enjoyment of life. Our canine companions are always by our side, wagging their tails as we embark on new journeys. Whether it’s hiking, biking, fishing, or kayaking, we always have our dogs by our side. They are a true part of our family and we love including them in our activities.
When we’re not out exploring Mother Nature’s wonders, we embrace quality family time, indulge in delicious food, savor a cup of good coffee, unleash our creativity through painting, and occasionally let loose with some video games. We’re also big fans of board and card games, gathering with friends for some friendly competition. Anywhere we are, we try to fill the atmosphere with joy and laughter.
Heather’s Certifications
CERTIFICATIONS/WORKSHOPS
- 2018: Studied directly under Duke Ferguson from Unleashed Potential, creator of Dog Training Genesis
- 2017: Attended workshops from the annual IACP Conference
- 2017: Attended Young Living’s Essential Oils on Animals Conference
- 2017: Attended Wendy Volhard’s Healthy Dog Conference
- 2017: Achieved a Certificate from The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies under the University of Edinburgh’s Animal Welfare and Law course
- 2017: Attended Duke University’s Canine Cognition & Emotion course taught by Brian Hare
- 2016: Visited the Monks of New Skete monastery in New York, and learned directly from the Monks themselves, the writers of “The Art of Raising a Puppy” and “How to Be Your Dog’s Best Friend“.
- 2015: Studied Canine Theriogenology from UC Davis Veterinary Medicine
- 2014: Earned Certificate from Training Cesar’s Way Fundamentals I, taught exclusively by Cesar Millan himself.
- 2014: Graduated Marc Goldberg‘s ForceFree workshop (“E-Touch” course, as well as author of “Let Dogs Be Dogs” and “The Art of Training your Dog: How to Gently Teach Good Behavior Using an E-Collar”)
- 2013: Certified from Martin Deeley’s International School of Dog Training Professionals
- 2013: Certified Associate member of the IACP (Later promoted to Professional member in 2018)
- 2012-2017: Continually studying under the supervision of Heather Beck from K9 Lifeline during multiple workshops and seminars relating to canine psychology, running a safe daycare, canine behavior, and how to understand and help dogs with difficult problems. *NOTE: Also attended 7 Difficult Dog workshops, as well as a Difficult Daycare Dog workshop in the following years. (Also learned from Ty Brown, Tyler Muto, Marc Goldberg, and Jason Vasconi, Jay Jack, and Larry Krohn during these workshops)
ADDITIONAL CREDENTIALS
- Studied canine psychology and behavior
- Pack mentality and social behaviors
- Puppy whelping and training before 8 weeks and puppy development (ENS and puppy culture programs)
- Canine Anatomy and Nutrition
- Raw Nutrition and Holistic/Natural Health
- Canine Theriogenology (Study of reproduction and breeding)
- Obedience Training
- Off Leash Training
- Training Through Play
- Canine Cognition (aka “Dognition”) and Emotion
- Canine Evolution
- Animal Welfare and Law
- Essential Oils for Animals
HEATHER’S TEACHERS
- Cesar Millan from The Dog Whisperer and Cesar 911
- Heather Beck from K9 Lifeline
- Jason Vasconi from Transform My Dog in Texas
- Marc Goldberg from The Chicago Dog Trainer, also the co-author of ‘Let Dogs Be Dogs’
- Monks of New Skete in Cambridge, NY (Authors of ‘The Art of Raising a Puppy’ and ‘How to be Your Dog’s Best Friend’, and ‘Let Dogs Be Dogs’)
- Gary Cassera from Balanced Dogs
- Sirius Dog Trainer Academy by Ian Dunbar
- Mike Ritland, author of “Team Dog: Training Dogs the Navy Seal Way”, and “Navy SEAL dogs”
- Dick Russell’s DVDs (recently deceased) and Larry Benoit (partner)
- Duke Ferguson, owner of Unleashed Potential, creator of Dog Training Genesis Program
- Jay Jack, creator and founder of the GRC Dog Sport, expert in Training Through Play
Meet Jess Vanstaveren
Assistant Dog Trainer
I have dedicated over two decades of my life to working with dogs, nurturing a passion that started early in my childhood. Even as a young kid, I was captivated by the intelligence and loyalty of our four-legged companions. It was during those formative years that I discovered my knack for training dogs, teaching them a plethora of tricks and commands that never failed to impress family, friends, and neighbors alike.
As I grew older, my love for canines only intensified, and I eagerly sought out opportunities to deepen my understanding of dog behavior and care. This drive led me to professionally work at a reputable boarding and daycare facility, where I gained invaluable hands-on experience with dogs of different breeds and temperaments. Embracing the responsibility of ensuring their well-being and happiness, I honed my skills in handling a wide range of canine personalities.
I have had the privilege of learning from Heather for over a year in behavior modification, dog training, and socialization. Additionally, I have sought wisdom from other seasoned trainers hailing from Utah, Arizona, and Montana, gleaming insights and techniques from their wealth of experience.
It brings me immense joy to share that my own dogs have achieved the prestigious AKC Canine Good Citizen certifications, a testament to their excellent training and disciplined behavior. Whether we’re hiking through scenic trails, cycling with the wind in our fur, or embarking on exhilarating runs, my dogs are always there by my side, embracing the adventures we embark on together. During my precious moments of free time, you’ll find me immersed in nature, hiking trails with my canine companions, cherishing the beauty of the great outdoors.
