History of Radiant K9

Kirsten McKenzie, the passionate and dedicated founder of our dog training company, has moved on to new adventures, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and guide us. Kirsten’s journey with dogs began in her early years, surrounded by her family's pets. Her deep love for animals, especially dogs, ignited a lifelong passion that would shape her future.

From her high school days, Kirsten actively volunteered at local shelters and rescues, honing her skills and deepening her understanding of canine behavior. In 2014, her life took a pivotal turn when she and her husband adopted Raleigh, a mixed breed dog with challenging behaviors. Raleigh became a catalyst for Kirsten’s growth as a trainer, pushing her to learn advanced techniques to ensure a harmonious home life.

Kirsten’s dedication extended beyond her personal experiences. Her commitment to helping others also saw her volunteering with rescues and mentoring under experienced trainers, further enriching her understanding and skills.

In addition to her training career, Kirsten is a talented freelance illustrator. However, her desire for a more interactive and fulfilling career led her to fully embrace dog training. Her unique blend of artistic creativity and practical training expertise set her apart in the field.

In 2017, Kirsten welcomed Kaladin, a German Shepherd, into her family. Kaladin became both her loyal partner and a critical part of her training journey. When Kirsten faced health challenges, Kaladin transitioned into a service dog, supporting her daily life and deepening her insights into service dog training.

Kirsten’s mission has always been clear: to foster peace and understanding between people and their canine companions. Her approach to training emphasizes building a fulfilling relationship based on fun, trust, and respect. Whether working with pet dogs or service dogs, Kirsten’s goal was to help clients achieve their personal training objectives and create a harmonious household.

As Kirsten embarks on her new journey, her spirit and philosophy remain the cornerstone of our company. We are committed to continuing her legacy, striving to meet the high standards she set and helping our clients build strong, positive relationships with their dogs. Thank you, Kirsten, for your unwavering dedication and the incredible foundation you have built. Your influence will always be a guiding light for us

Trainer
Octavia Pizarro

Growing up on a farm in small New York town brought out my love for animals specifically dogs. When graduated high school I started working at a boarding/daycare facility in which helped me gain knowledge on different canine behaviors. After rescuing my first dog Marley who is a German Shepherd/Labrador Retriever mix I decided to take a step into the dog training world.

I started shadowing Marley’s trainer and eventually started working with her. After making the move to California I decided to work back in the veterinary field as a Veterinary Assistant. This was an amazing opportunity to retain more knowledge on animal health and behavior. Although I loved this opportunity, I missed training. My other dog Bentley was a rescue with severe reactivity issues.

When I met Kirsten, she not only showed me a new approach to training but inspired me to step into the balance training world. My main goal is to help you build a better relationship your dog. But also providing you with the knowledge and confidence to reach higher levels of success. 

Dog Walker
AJ Tango

With a lifelong passion for animals, l've made it my mission to ensure that every pet I care for receives the love and attention they deserve. My professional journey began in the pet care industry, where I gained valuable experience working at a pet food retail store. This role allowed me to deepen my understanding of animal nutrition, behavior, and overall well-being. As a dedicated dog walker, I bring a personal touch to my services, informed by years of experience as a pet owner myself. I have the pleasure of sharing my life with a German shepherd and two cats, who remind me daily of the joy and responsibility that comes with pet ownership.

I take pride in offering tailored care for each pet, understanding that every animal has unique needs. My work goes beyond simply walking dogs; I aim to provide peace of mind to pet parents, knowing their fur babies are in capable hands. Whether it's ensuring a dog gets the exercise they need, providing companionship during the day, or assisting with pet care advice, I'm here to help. My commitment to the well-being of every pet under my care is at the heart of everything I do.