Meet Our Trainers

Kristina Ackerman

My name is Kristina Ackerman. I have always been involved with animals and I have the joy of sharing my home with my dog, Astro.

I have been working with Oscar’s Pet Resort since 2007. Along with offering Private, Daycare and Boarding training, I hold a special place in my heart for puppies. In 2011, I initiated my Puppy Program that centers on early socialization and training, both of which impact a dog’s confidence and manners at a very critical developmental life stage.

I offer private-  and group obedience classes for beginners and advanced levels ,and  also enjoy offering Nose Work-   and Agility for fun , group and private sessions,  to provide mental and physical stimulation, as well as further deepening the bond between dog and owner.

I use Behavior Modification with shy, fearful, anxious dogs, and dogs with some reactivity issues. It’s so rewarding to see how they gain confidence and the impact it has on the dog-human life. My goal is to help my human customers to better communicate and understand their Best Friend.

I earned my Pet Dog Trainer Certification through the Animal Behavior College in 2009. I earned my Pet Care Technician Certification through the Pet Care Service Association in 2008. I have bachelor degree in Business Administration from Mainor Business College in Estonia and an Associate Degree in Economic Law from Polytechnic Institute in Estonia. I am a professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainer and AKC CGC and AKC S.T.A.R Puppy Evaluator.

Dog training, like any other field, is constantly changing. To provide the best service, I am dedicated to learning, reading, and attending seminars and workshops on a regular basis to keep up-to-date on new methods and ideas in Science-Based Positive Reinforcement Dog Training. I regularly attend seminars and conferences for Pet Dog Trainers.

My name is Kara Petersheim. I have always had a love for working with animals, but have a deeper connection and understanding for dogs. I share a home with my two dogs, Gamora and Willow. I also have two Geckos, Pascal and Noodles.

I have been with Oscar’s since 2018 after graduating from Lancaster County Career and Technology Center and receiving my certification as a Veterinarian Assistant. Starting out as a Pet Care Technician, I have worked alongside Boarding and Daycare dogs and offer Board and Trains during their stay. I gained skills to offer proper care, observe dog behaviors and social cues while managing and reinforcing behaviors to offer a successful social experience.

Entering my training journey, we developed our Puppy Day School Program in 2019. We focus on starting puppies out with the proper speed of training, handling and social experience all through the science and practice of Positive Reinforcement. It is very rewarding to create relationships with parents and being able to guide both human and dog through their training journey. Due to having a history as a dance teacher, I enjoy working with families. I strive to help our human and canine children learn to live in harmony.

In 2021, I graduated with my certification from the Victoria Stilwell Dog Trainer Academy. I am also a certified AKC CGC and S.T.A.R Puppy Evaluator. I offer a variety of classes such as: Basic Obedience, Clicks for Tricks and Rocket Recall. I look to expand my knowledge and hope to offer Choreographed Heel Work ,Freestyle and child friendly classes in the near future.