Karen Byrd is currently an obedience instructor at CDTS working with puppies and beginners. She has 3 dogs that she dearly loves: Manhattan, a Dalmatian , Dove, another Dalmatian and Toto, a precious rescue! Karen was born, raised and still resides in Weaverville. As a child, her next door neighbor was Jane Johnson, a lead instructor at CDTS, and Karen grew up watching dogs in training. Karen trained her first dog when she was in middle school and went on to train 3 more before becoming serious about competition. " Manhattan", her oldest Dalmatian, has earned his Novice Obedience title, his Novice Rally title, and is a Conformation Champion. They are presently working toward competing in Open.....and possibly agility. Karen's newest addition, "Dove," a 3 year old spotted blur has already begun competitive obedience classes and has earned her CD and NA titles in obedience and agility respecitvely. "Toto" is a companion to her six year old daughter and 10 year old son. Toto began life terrified and untouched when Karen and her family rescued her--but thanks to a few rounds of puppy classes and socialization; she may even let you pet her!! Karen feels that Companion Dog Training School has so much to offer...but most of all, it is the POSITIVE interaction with your dog that makes the difference! She is forever grateful for the wealth of knowledge shared with her by the head instructors of CDTS.