Meet the Staff
Alice Waltermire Head Trainer and Groomer
Alice Waltermire Whether it's teaching a dog how to walk nicely on a leash, managing behavior issues at home, or addressing reactivity and building confidence, these are crucial aspects of a happy, well-adjusted dog. I can help you brainstorm solutions or strategies for different dog-related situations. Born and raised in Columbus, Indiana. I moved to California in 1984 and worked for Harley-Davidson for 30 years. During that time I fell in love with dog training. I trained under Black Forest K9 Training under Rick Klassen. I have successfully completed all the requirements of a Mentorship Program with Black Forest K-9 Training, specializing in * Basic/Advances Obedience* Search Dog* Service Dog* Evaluations*AKC Evaluator*AKC FitI did Search And Rescue for Joshua Tree National Park for 2013-2019 I helped build the K-9 unit and training.
In 2019, I came back to Indiana to be with my family. Thank you for trusting me with your dogs.Alice Waltermire Trainer, groomer, and owner of BCK9
In 2019, I came back to Indiana to be with my family. Thank you for trusting me with your dogs.Alice Waltermire Trainer, groomer, and owner of BCK9
Honna Keller-Kuhn
Groomer & Pet Care Specialist
Brown County has always been home for me. My husband and I raise our two kids on a small hobby farm full of happy chaos—six dogs, two cats, chickens and geese, two rabbits, and a pair of crested geckos.
I’ve loved animals all my life, but dogs hold a special place in my heart. As a groomer, my goal is to give every pet a calm, caring experience and send them home looking and feeling their best. I can’t wait to meet you and your furry family members!
I’ve loved animals all my life, but dogs hold a special place in my heart. As a groomer, my goal is to give every pet a calm, caring experience and send them home looking and feeling their best. I can’t wait to meet you and your furry family members!
Nicole Mastoberti
Groomer & Pet Care Specialist
Nicole joined Brown County K9 after four years as an advanced veterinary assistant, bringing a solid background in animal care and a passion for learning. Originally from New York and raised in South Carolina, she’s called Nashville home since 2020, sharing it with her husband and a lively mix of pets. Nicole is dedicated to providing a calm, fear-free grooming experience and loves connecting with both dogs and their people. Outside the salon, she enjoys photography, watercolor painting, crocheting, hiking, and gardening.
Kirk Waltermire
"The Muscle" assistant trainer and groomer
Kirk is a true professional and a devoted husband of over 40 years to his wife, Alice, who is the head trainer. Together, they make an outstanding team in the world of dog training. But Kirk's expertise goes beyond that; as a former marine, his dedication and discipline have earned him the respect of everyone who knows him. He is also an all-around great guy who is always willing to lend a helping hand to Alice, head groomer Taylor, or the dogs in any way they need.
But that's not all. Kirk is also a proud owner of exceptional service and performance sport dogs. Their training and skills have made them valuable members of their community, and Kirk couldn't be prouder. And speaking of skills, he has been on many search and rescue missions with his wife Alice and their dogs, showcasing their incredible abilities and unwavering bond with their owners.
It's not just about training dogs; it's about the strong connection and trust that Kirk has built with them. He truly embodies what it means to be a devoted dog owner and professional trainer.
Roberta Chirko Pet care & Media assistant
Roberta and her Labradoodle, Eddie, have trained with Alice for over a year, building strong skills in leash work, obedience, and positive handling. She offers professional dog walking and in-home pet sitting, with a secure play area, peaceful pond, and comfortable “Doggy Inn” for overnight stays. Guided by Alice’s proven methods, Roberta provides an orderly, well-managed environment and tailors care to each dog’s individual needs—whether it’s a playful puppy or a senior companion.