About Expert Oklahoma City Dog Training Team
JP Carter
Owner/Head Trainer
JP Carter is a leading dog behavior trainer serving the OKC and surrounding areas. His pet experience includes a Raccoon, a couple of Russian Tortoises, and multiple cats and dogs. JP’s love of dogs started at 4 years old, when a very responsible German Shepherd walked him home daily from Montessori school. JP is a proud Eagle Scout, father of an Eagle, and member of the Tribe of Mic-o-say. With 30 years of business experience, he is a skilled corporate trainer, change manager, and effective decision facilitator.
Their first “child” was a 200 LB Great Dane named Baby Blue. But when JP’s human daughter brought a 4 pound Chihuahua into their home, he soon realized how different these small dogs are to manage. How can such a small dog be so much harder to train than his Great Danes? After doing his research, he contacted one of the top dog trainers in the country John Van Olden. As the owner of Canine Trade Group, John Van Olden’s training protocols are the most effective dog training methods ever developed. Not only did Mr. Van Olden’s system solve JP’s dog training issues, but once John saw JP’s training skills and experience, JP was asked to take on the very successful Big Friendly Dog Training.
Ginger Reece
Professional Dog Trainer & Boarding Manager
Ginger is from Lawton OK, she’s a true country girl who grew up on a farm with horses, cows, dogs…even pet turtles, and lizards. She spent a lot of quality time with her dad, and became involved in the competitive world of sporting dogs. She trained German Shorthaired Pointers who enjoyed field trialing even more than she did, especially her Pointer, Cal. Ginger and Cal learned to work together and successfully built a relationship based on reliable communication and trust.
While earning her B.S. in Health Science’s from the University of Central Oklahoma as well as her EMT certificate Ginger noticed that her part time work as a dog handler was quickly becoming the most rewarding part of her day. Fortunately for Big Friendly Dog Training, Ginger decided to pivot and successfully completed her Better Decisions Dog Training Certification.
Today she helps challenged dogs reach their full potential through private in home, board and train and group training sessions that include playgroups for awkward dogs.
Hailie Parton
Professional Dog Trainer & Groomer Extraordinare
Hailie has always had a deep love for animals—especially dogs. At any given time, you’ll find her surrounded by her beloved pack: a sassy young pit bull, a laid-back English bulldog, and a sweet-as-can-be standard poodle. Even her husband has come to accept that three dogs is just the right number in their home!
Hailie takes pride in helping each unique dog—and each unique owner—find the harmony that works best for them. Watching that bond grow and seeing the “aha” moments click into place is what drives her every day. With her deep breed knowledge and years of hands-on experience, she’s passionate about helping every furry friend and their family thrive.
She can’t wait to meet you and your pup and work together toward your goals—for a tail-wagging good time! Reach out today to schedule your consultation with Hailie.
Gavin Varva
Professional Dog Trainer & Boarding Manager in Topeka
Gavin Vavra is one of the top dog trainers in the country, having been fully certified in “Decisions Not Dominance” calming protocols taught through the Canine Trade Group certification course. Before becoming a dog trainer, Gavin spent ten years as a professional youth mentor, helping teenagers navigate the transition to adulthood. Still, he always found time to assist foster dogs by helping them learn basic and advanced obedience skills.
Now, he’s joined forces with JP and Big Friendly Dog Training. Whether you are dealing with aggression, anxiety, hyperactivity, disobedience, or you’re having difficulty house training, Gavin will walk you through effective training protocols to help you achieve a happier, healthier, more balanced canine companion.
Working with Gavin will provide you, your family, and your dog(s) with the foundations to manage nervous energy, eliminate anxiety and aggressive behaviors, and live a happier, calmer life.