Dana Zinn has been working with and training dogs since 1999. Her many years of dog training experience include working at the spcaLA as an Animal Behavior & Training Specialist. It was the time working with dogs in the shelter that drew her to the sport of K9 Nose Work®; not only for her own dogs, but for the many dogs in need of a “job” to do.

Dana was involved in the first publicly offered K9 Nose Work® class in Long Beach, CA. She not only participated but eventually assisted in instruction. From there Dana became involved in the development of the K9 Nose Work® instructor certification program. Dana was one of the first participants to be certified as an instructor for the K9 Nose Work® curriculum approved by the National Association of Canine Scent Work, LLC. She is proud to be a founding faculty member and a certifying official for sanctioned NACSW trials across the country. She recently became a Supervising Certifying Official, which means she is involved in the training of new COs for NACSW.  Dana also helps with various projects within the NACSW Trial Department.

In regard to K9 Nose Work®, her learning never stops as she continues to teach classes, instruct at camps, and compete in trials. One of her proudest moments was placing first in the 2014 NACSW National Invitational. 

Dana moved from California with her family to Golden, Colorado in 2008 and brought the sport of K9 Nose Work® with her. She has delighted in watching the growth of the sport in her community and around the country.