EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP
KELLY OSBURN
CO-FOUNDER &
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Kelly holds a Masters in Research Psychology (CSU Long Beach) and a Bachelors in Psychology (SUNY Buffalo). She is certified in Applied Animal Behavior through the University of Washington, is a certified professional dog trainer (CCPDT-KA) and holds certification in Drug Abuse Counseling and Studies from UCLA Extension College.
Her background has fostered a deep appreciation and dedication to evidence-based outcomes and methods that are grounded in compassion and supported by science.
Kelly is inspired by the human-animal connection, and motivated by opportunities to promote growth and positive change through it. She envisions a community where all youth and all dogs have the chance to be similarly inspired and impacted.
She is the proud person of 2-time K9YA graduate Lou Goofus Dog of the World Dread Fell to Rats and Skunks (though she herself loves skunks and rats).
PROGRAMS
KATIE MCGUIRE
CPDT-KA, CDBC, UW-AAB
DOG TRAINING INSTRUCTOR
Katie is a professional dog trainer with a passion for helping dogs and their people build trusting, lasting relationships.
With years of experience in animal behavior and positive reinforcement techniques, Katie has worked with diverse canine personalities, from playful puppies to older dogs with special needs.
Her approach is centered around compassionate, personalized training, making sure every dog—and their human—feels empowered and understood. Katie’s mission is to foster mutual respect and clear communication, so pets and their families can thrive together. Learn more about her work at katherinek9.com.
CATE BUDDENBERG
PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Cate brings years of experience as a neighborhood dog-walker and animal advocate to her work with K9 Youth Alliance. She is grateful for the opportunity to support young people as they grow into more confident, empathic, and empowered community members with help from canine allies.
When she’s not working with shelter dogs, Cate provides academic coaching, technical writing assistance, and other editing and proofreading services for non-native English speakers. She loves poetry, fancy rats, loud music, DIY, vegetable gardening, and hanging out with her own rescue dogs, Loretta Lynn and Crystal Gayle.
Bio to come!