About Vivid K9
Hi, I'm Vicki DeMarco, founder of Vivid K9.
I didn’t become a trainer because dogs were always “easy” for me. I became a trainer because I lived the reality of struggling with my own dogs — the stress, the guilt, the frustration of not knowing what to do next.
My
Why
My first dog taught me the hardest lesson of all: love isn’t enough if you don’t have the right leadership, structure, and understanding. Her loss fuels everything I do today. Every dog I train and every owner I coach is a chance to make sure no one else has to go through that same heartbreak.
Every dog I train and every owner I coach gets the benefit of those lessons. You’re not just learning “obedience commands” with me—you’re learning how to think differently about your dog, how to communicate in a way they understand, and how to build a partnership that lasts.
Now, with three challenging dogs of my own and years of working through the “hard stuff,” I can say this with confidence: I don’t just talk the talk — I walk the walk.
My
Philosophy
-
Train the dog in front of you — not the dog you wish you had.
-
Educate the owner — because true change starts with you.
-
Build the relationship first — structure, routine, and clarity create the foundation for freedom.
I care deeply about the dogs in my care, but just as much about the humans holding the leash. Training with me isn’t about quick fixes. It’s about transformation — for both ends of the leash.
Because when you shift how you show up for your dog, everything changes.
My
Approach
-
Relationship first, obedience second. Structure, routine, fulfillment, and clarity before the fancy stuff.
-
Owner education is non-negotiable. You can’t change your dog if you don’t change how you lead.
-
Tools with timing and purpose. I introduce the e-collar in week two, after the dog understands the basics, so it adds clarity—not confusion.
No quick fixes. I don’t patch holes. I build foundations that last.
Credentials
-
Graduate, Animal Behavior College
-
Mentorship with respected trainers, including Stephanie Vachinsky (Method Canine); currently pursuing certification through her program
-
5+ years in training facilities: behavioral cases, private lessons, and group classes
-
Former shelter training staff: coaching volunteers and preparing dogs for adoption
-
Active in rescue work: evaluations and fostering to prepare dogs for permanent homes
