Colleen began LAk9’s over 18 years ago, as a one-woman dog walking operation in Los Angeles, California. As her credentials and experience grew, her business expanded to include boarding, obedience training and, finally, behavioral modification using dog psychology, where she has become a powerhouse in her field.

Maria del Pilar Garrido Morales (“Pilar Garrido” for short) was born and raised in Barcelona, Spain. Her family is from southern Spain, where living on a farm was a way of life. By profession, she is a dog and cat trainer and groomer, and she also fosters dogs. Pilar likes the challenge of difficult cases — ones that others shy away from — such as working with blind, scared, or aggressive dogs or cats.

Through workshops, private consultations, and public speaking engagements, Cheri Lucas has become an internationally recognized canine behavior specialist and speaker, spreading a message of hope to dog owners struggling with behavior issues from fear and aggression to fixation and separation anxiety. Her methods are unique and effective, encouraging dog owners to unleash their inner leadership abilities.