About Us
Building Bonds, Shaping Better Companions
At The Better Companion, our mission is to empower dogs and their humans through compassionate, science-based training that honors the individuality of each dog and the strength of the human-animal bond. The Better Companion underwent new ownership in 2024, and we reaffirm our commitment to using only force-free, positive reinforcement methods that foster trust, confidence, and lasting cooperation.
We are dedicated to helping families build understanding and harmony with their dogs while prioritizing the emotional well-being of both ends of the leash. Our team continuously engages in professional education to stay current with the latest evidence-based practices in canine behavior and training.
We believe that learning should be joyful - for dogs and humans alike - and that every interaction is an opportunity to strengthen connection, communication, and respect.
Our Dedication remains to you, and your Better Companion.
Meet Our Team
Jaralynn, Co-Owner
Hi, I’m Jaralynn! I began my journey with The Better Companion in 2011 as a Doggy Daycare Supervisor. For over 11 years, I dedicated myself to understanding canine behavior - focusing on how dogs communicate, interact, and play with one another. This foundation led me to transition into a behind-the-scenes role, supporting the office and operations side of the business. In 2024, I was incredibly proud to take the next step as one of the new owners of The Better Companion. It’s been an exciting and fulfilling evolution, shaped by years of hands-on experience and a deep love for dogs. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, Mick, and our two ten-year-old dogs: Panic, an Ibizan Hound who sparked my love for the Sighthound family, and Chevy, a lively Labrador/Pit Bull mix who keeps every day fun and full of energy.
Mick, Co-Owner
My name is Mick, and I’m one of the proud owners of The Better Companion. I originally moved from Virginia to Alaska in 2013, drawn by the adventure of working as a deckhand on a shrimp boat and the desire for a fresh start. That journey led me to a new passion and in 2017, to my wife, Jaralynn - with whom I’ve built a life centered around animals and the connections they bring.
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At home, I share my space with two very different but equally loved dogs: Chevy, an energetic lab mix who keeps me moving, and Panic, a calm and composed Ibizan hound who brings a grounding presence. Living and working alongside animals has taught me the value of patience, communication, and respect for individual personalities - lessons we carry into every aspect of our work at The Better Companion.
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Our goal is simple: to help people build stronger, more meaningful relationships with their animals through understanding, positive guidance, and mutual trust.
Abi, CCDT, FFCP, CGC, ATT, Trick Dog, Evaluator
Co-Owner, Lead Trainer
I come from a background in shelter medicine, having worked in animal shelters across Ohio since 2014. Over the years, I’ve gained experience in rescue, behavior, volunteer coordination, and intake before deciding to further my education in 2021 through CATCH Canine Trainer’s Academy. That decision came from my passion for helping both pets and their people build lasting, positive relationships.
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I previously served on the board of an all-breed rescue and helped run their prison-based dog training program - an experience that deepened my appreciation for how learning and connection can change lives, both human and canine. Since 2021, I’ve worked as a trainer on and off, and I continue to enjoy the constant growth that comes from working in an ever-evolving field rooted in learning theory and science-based training.
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My greatest passion is helping preserve and strengthen the human-animal bond, whether it’s guiding first-time dog owners or supporting long-time handlers in overcoming new challenges.
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At home, I share my life with what some would call “too many” pets: five dogs, five cats, two horses, two snakes, and two beloved chinchillas. I’m especially passionate about enrichment for all species - not just our dogs and cats, but also our scaly, feathered, and exotic companions. In my spare time, I train and compete in dog sports with my Doberman and Cane Corso and am learning to ride horses.
Amanda, Office Operations & Bookkeeping
I’ve proudly served as the Office Manager at The Better Companion for the past six years. From coordinating daily operations to building lasting relationships with our wonderful clients, I work behind the scenes to help ensure everything runs smoothly and efficiently.
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Outside of work, I enjoy quiet moments with a good book and the company of my two beloved senior dogs - Brian, a spirited 16-year-old Min Pin/Chihuahua mix, and Addy, a gentle 14-year-old Maltese mix. Supporting a team that’s passionate about animal care and positive training methods makes every day at BetCo meaningful.
Danny, Trainer, ABCDT, ABCCT, CGC & Trick Dog Evaluator
Born and raised in Wasilla, my lifelong love of animals was sparked by my childhood companions - Yoda the French Bulldog, Noodle the Pug, and especially Pax, an Alaskan Husky who introduced me to the joy and complexity of dog training. While I initially pursued Fine Arts at Mat-Su College, my passion ultimately led me to a career in animal behavior. I became a certified dog obedience trainer through Animal Behavior College, where I also earned certification in feline training.
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My journey with The Better Companion began in 2018 as an intern and later staff member, working in daycare and open play. After briefly exploring other opportunities, I returned in 2019 and became Daycare Supervisor in 2021, while also stepping into private training sessions. In 2023, I began teaching group classes and currently lead our Out & About and Trick Dog programs.
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I chose The Better Companion because of its commitment to ethical, science-based, and positive training. Treating animals with kindness, patience, and respect is at the heart of everything I do, and I’m proud to be part of a team that shares those values.
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I share my home with my two borzoi, Nox and Mei, and my cat Connie who loves tricks in her own right. I’d be remiss to not include Silver, my greyhound, even though she has moved on to the Rainbow Bridge and is missed dearly.
Katie, Trainer, CGC, Star Puppy, Trick Dog, Fit Dog Evaluator
I have been training animals for as long as I can remember, starting with the neighborhood dogs when I was a child. I have always loved animals of all shapes and sizes, with a special passion for behavior and training. Over the years, animal training has shifted from a more traditional, force-based approach to a positive, reward-based methodology, and I am proud to have been learning from some of the very best positive reinforcement trainers for the past decade.
I have worked extensively as a dog trainer, teaching agility, obedience, trick dog, STAR Puppy, and more. My own dogs hold titles in agility, trick dog, Canine Good Citizen, STAR Puppy, scent work, and ACT, and have participated in rally, conformation, nose work, and other training opportunities. I have trained two registered therapy dogs who worked alongside me with children in behavioral health and modification.
I continually participate in seminars and training opportunities to stay current with the least intrusive, most rewarding methods and practices. As an AKC Certified Evaluator, I am committed to ongoing education and growth in the field.
My experience includes serving as the Avian Director of the Alaska WildBird Rehabilitation Center, where I trained education ambassadors such as magpies, hawks, falcons, owls, and pigeons.
I am excited to bring my knowledge, passion, and experience to the talented team at The Better Companion.
Jean, Nose Work Enthusiast & Trainer-in-Training
My journey with The Better Companion began in 2004, when I took puppy classes with our Heeler/Aussie mix, Josie, under Claudia’s guidance. A decade later, I returned to BetCo in 2014 after adopting my first Heeler and recognizing her need for a job - leading us to discover the rewarding world of canine nose work.
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Since then, I have been an active participant in classes at BetCo and Bell Creek Agility and Obedience, consistently expanding my knowledge through seminars and competitions. I’ve had the privilege of trialing with my Heelers, Pepper and Ozzy, and now train and trial with my two Standard Dachshunds, Gunter and Dixie.
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I am currently working toward earning my Certified Nose Work Instructor (CNWI) credential through the National Association of Canine Scent Work (NACSW), with the goal of sharing the joy and mental stimulation of scent work with more dogs and their handlers.
Niquelina, Training & Playtime Assistant
Hi, I’m Niquelina, and I’ve been part of The Better Companion team since 2023. I assist with facilitating our open playtime sessions and support our training classes, helping create a fun, structured, and engaging environment for both dogs and their handlers.
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I joined BetCo because I’m passionate about nurturing the bond between dogs and their people. I truly enjoy supporting teams as they learn and grow together through positive, science-based training in a welcoming, supportive space.
Nakia, Groomer
With nearly a decade of grooming experience, I bring a patient, skilled, and compassionate approach to every dog I work with. Whether it's a show-quality finish, a functional field trim, or helping a nervous pup learn to love the grooming table, my focus is always on comfort, precision, and trust.
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I specialize in:
Gentle grooming for shy, nervous, or “difficult” dogs
Breed-specific cuts tailored to structure and coat type
Creative grooming and coat coloring (by request!)
Hand stripping for wire-coated breeds
Show-quality grooming for dogs who shine in the ring
Positive, force-free handling methods that prioritize each dog’s well-being
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Joining a positive reinforcement-based training facility allows me to work alongside like-minded professionals who believe in helping animals feel safe and supported through every experience. I’m excited to continue refining my skills while helping dogs look and feel their best - inside and out.
Olivia, Trainer-in-Training
Olivia is a passionate animal lover who has cared for everything from dogs and sheep to ducks and rabbits. She’s home schooled and graduating this spring and is excited to begin her journey into professional dog training here at The Better Companion!
With interests in psychology, creative hobbies, and a future goal of earning her dog training license, Olivia is eager to grow her skills and help families strengthen the bond with their dogs.
Company History
The Better Companion was founded in July 2002 by Claudia Sihler, CPDT-KSA, IAABC-ADT, to provide professional, science-based dog training services in Alaska’s Mat-Su Valley. Built on a foundation of positive reinforcement and individualized support, Claudia expanded the business over the years to include classes in obedience, agility, behavior, and a wide variety of dog sports and enrichment activities.
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In 2005, Claudia and her husband Frank opened the doors to a custom-built training facility, adding Doggy Daycare, Open Play Time, and a fenced outdoor training space. They later introduced workshops in skijoring, mushing, therapy dog training, and more - cementing The Better Companion as a hub for dogs and their people.
In 2024, ownership of The Better Companion transitioned to a new generation of leadership committed to continuing Claudia’s vision. Today, the team remains dedicated to offering reward-based training, compassionate care, and innovative learning opportunities for dogs and their humans across the Mat-Su Valley and beyond.
In 2022, The Better Companion celebrated its 20th year in business.
