Growing up with dogs, cats, guinea pigs, rabbits, and many farm animals, there was no way Kathe Baxter could not love animals! She has pursued her love of animals as a trainer, pet caregiver, therapy team and is the proud owner of Waggin’ Works. 

She was introduced to the sport of K9 Nose Work when it was first made known to the East Coast in 2010 and was part of the first graduating class of CNWI Nose Work instructors.  Kathe is a Certifying Official for NACSW trials (approved for all levels), Trial Judge, ORT Certifying Official and Judge, she hosts many sanctioned trials and held several primary positions as volunteer coordinator and score room lead.

In K9 Nose Work, Kathe's Norwegian Elkhound "Little Lady Karita" was the first Elkhound to earn all three levels of Nose Work competition as well as one of 15 teams to earn the first Elite titles in the Northeast. They qualified and attended the NACSW National Invitational two years in a row (2014-2015) and due to Karita’s health issues, retired shortly thereafter.  She is grateful for all that Karita taught her on the wonderful journey of Nose Work.  She looks forward to new and exciting adventures with her puppies, Elkhound Karletta and King Charles, Casey.        

In addition to being an active competitor in Nose Work, Rally, and Agility, Kathe is a member of the Hudson Valley Tracking Club, pursuing tracking and participating as a trial tracklayer.  She has completed her Professional Dog Trainer Certification (CPDT-KA) and is a Karen Pryor Certified Training Partner (KPA-CTP).

Kathe takes continuing education very seriously, attending seminars, workshops, trials, and observing K9 teams as they search: detecting search patterns, environmental factors, and the subtle body language of communication. This is invaluable knowledge and skills she passes on to handlers and their dogs.

Kathe's passion for instructing is based on the sheer delight of bringing true joy and happiness to a person and their canine companion. She considers it an honor to be part of developing self-confidence and a genuine trusting relationship.