Leadership team

Mission-Focused. Field-Tested. Committed to Your Success.

Meet the Leadership Behind Ridgeside K9

Ridgeside K9 was built by veterans, law enforcement professionals, and industry leaders who understand the value of trust, discipline, and execution. Whether you’re opening your first training-only location or scaling to a multi-service facility, our leadership team is here to guide you every step of the way.

With deep experience in canine training, business operations, and real-world leadership, our team understands what it takes to build high-performing dog training businesses from the ground up. From national strategy to hands-on support, every member of the Ridgeside K9 leadership team is committed to helping new owners launch strong, scale smart, and lead with purpose.

When you join Ridgeside K9, you’re backed by a team that’s done it and is ready to help you do the same.

Executive Leadership

Aaron Taylor

Founder & Chief Executive Officer

Aaron Taylor is the founder and owner of Ridgeside K9, LLC, a fast-growing, veteran-owned leader in professional dog training, behavior rehabilitation, and K9 services. A 100% combat-disabled veteran, his career spans the United States Marine Corps, law enforcement, and a lifelong dedication to training dogs for real-world reliability and family peace of mind.

Military and Law Enforcement Background
Aaron served six years in the United States Marine Corps, including in Infantry and Diplomatic Security, and held a TS-SCI security clearance. His service, marked by high-stakes responsibility and a commitment to mission, shaped the decisive leadership style he brings to Ridgeside K9. As a combat-disabled veteran decorated for bravery, he mentors and employs fellow veterans with purpose and clarity.

After the Marine Corps, Aaron served 15 years with the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office in Virginia, working in community policing, narcotics, full-time SWAT, Patrol K9, and SWAT K9. He advanced through specialized roles while gaining extensive field experience. During this period, he completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Security Studies and the Science of Policing at The George Washington University, strengthening his operational and leadership expertise.

From Passion to Business
In 2013, Aaron began rehabilitating challenging dogs as a side endeavor that grew rapidly through word of mouth. In 2016, he officially launched Ridgeside K9 while still working midnight shifts as a Patrol K9 officer. What started with a single wire crate quickly scaled as demand for reliable, results-driven training increased.

By 2018, after 21 years of combined military and law enforcement service, Aaron retired to lead Ridgeside K9 full-time. The company expanded its offerings to include board-and-train programs, behavior modification, advanced obedience, service and protection dogs, private lessons, boarding, and coast-to-coast transport services.

Vision and Growth
Aaron’s philosophy is clear: have a vision, plan quietly, then execute with speed and discipline. That approach propelled Ridgeside K9 from a local operation to a national brand. Today, the company operates in 12 states with 25 locations and a growing team aligned to the same standard of excellence and client care.

Ridgeside K9 locations are owned and operated by a combination of military veterans, former law enforcement K9 handlers, and highly skilled civilian trainers. Seven locations are owned by a 100% combat-disabled veteran. The company’s growth has surpassed early projections in both revenue and footprint.

Legacy of Service and Impact
Through Ridgeside K9, Aaron continues his service by building careers for veterans and first responders and by helping families achieve calm, confident, and obedient dogs. His leadership defines the company’s mission: deliver dependable results, elevate industry standards, and invest in people who serve their communities.

Chrissy Clark

Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Chrissy leads operations across all Ridgeside K9 locations, overseeing onboarding, systems implementation, and ongoing support. She ensures each location operates efficiently, adheres to brand standards, and delivers elite client service. Her boots-on-the-ground leadership style bridges the gap between strategy and execution.

Regional Brand Executives

Eric Stanbro

Brand Executive – Central Region

Eric is a 27-year veteran of law enforcement and the owner of Ridgeside K9 Ohio. His career with the Canton Police Department included roles in patrol, narcotics, SWAT, K9, and the training division. As Head K9 Trainer and Training Director for the Police K9 Association, Eric has led the development of 30–40 K9 teams annually and has trained military K9s for the U.S. Navy SEALs. In 2020, he launched Ridgeside K9 Ohio, bringing elite pet training and K9 services to the region with a 6,000 sq ft facility and a 10-trainer team.

Jay Nix

Brand Executive – East Region

Jay is a 25-year law enforcement veteran, K9 Unit Commander, and the owner of Ridgeside K9 Central Florida. Since 2000, Jay has served the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, leading K9 operations, interdiction units, and training programs across North Central Florida. He currently oversees 16 working K9 teams and leads national training for K9s United, a nonprofit serving law enforcement agencies. Jay blends tactical expertise with a passion for helping everyday dog owners achieve transformational results.

Rich Hartman

Brand Executive – West Region

Rich brings 25 years of law enforcement experience and 15 years as a full-time K9 handler to his role as owner of Ridgeside K9 NorCal. He has trained and placed multiple police K9s into service throughout Northern California and is widely respected for his behavioral rehabilitation work with both working and pet dogs. Recognizing the need for high-quality pet training in his region, Rich launched Ridgeside K9 NorCal in 2021 to deliver professional, trusted dog training across Northern California.