Christina Curtis, Professional Dog Trainer
Christina has been involved with dogs for over 13 years. She started out volunteering at a high kill shelter where she walked and worked with numerous different mixes and temperaments. Frequently, she would bring home injured, sick and fearful dogs to rehabilitate. Christina then realized her passion for saving fearful and high energy dogs and got involved in rescue. During this time she rescued over 400 dogs!
Her journey with dogs continued. She started assisting training classes for Warren Patitz with Doggone Connection and moved on to running her own classes. After fostering many high energy dogs, she was on the search for an outlet for them. This is when she got involved in the sport of disc. She found her passion in traveling and competing in this sport. Christina has a 2006 World Champion disc dog, along with many World Qualifying dogs over the years. In addition, she placed 2nd and 3rd at Worlds doing pairs routines and 3rd in Worlds with her micro dog.
Christina has spent several years teaching Manners, Reactive dog and trick classes. In addition to these classes, she has done private in-home training and private disc dog lessons. Christina also has service dog training experience.
She shares her life with 10 rescue dogs and always has one foster dog. She performs with these dogs doing disc, agility, tricks and dock diving shows all over the United States. You may have seen her and her dogs performing at the Indianapolis Zoo with Cool Dog Productions or most recently at the Marion County Fair.
Christina has learned so much by having several different breeds. She has had Border Collies, Cattle dogs, a Lab, a Whippet, a Belgian Malinois, Chihuahua mixes and other mixes. It is important to her to use positive training so we are all always having fun while working! In addition, she conditions her performance dogs to keep them in tip top shape so they don’t get injured. This experience with many diverse temperaments makes Christina a resource for many pet dog families. Her teaching style is easy to follow and effective. We are so thankful to have her on our team! Christina offers board and train, reverse board and train and private training in your home.
Mica Riedner, CPDT-KA
Mica is a certified dog trainer from Anderson, IN. She shares her home with her husband Matt, their daughter Maddie, and four beloved dogs, Zeke (pictured), Arlo, Lacie, and Eli.
During her 5+ years of training dogs professionally, Mica has gained experience with a wide variety of dog breeds. She has taught AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy classes and trained dogs from basic to advanced obedience levels. One of her biggest passions is training service and therapy dogs. Two of Mica’s own dogs work as therapy dogs spreading comfort and joy to others.
As a trainer, Mica’s biggest passion is helping individuals and families enjoy their dogs to the fullest! She truly loves helping clients achieve their goals with their furry friends!
Mica’s certifications include CPDT-KA, Fear Free, AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, and Pro Pet Hero CPR and First Aid. Mica is currently taking private lesson clients and the occasional board and train.
Alessia Mazzitelli, Professional Dog Trainer
Hello there! I’m a 27-year-old dog enthusiast currently based in beautiful Carmel, Indiana. My journey with dogs began as far back as I can remember, and it’s been an incredible ride filled with learning, challenges, and unforgettable moments.
Originally hailing from Italy, I’ve had the privilege of sharing my life with a diverse array of wild and working dogs. It’s in those early years that I forged a deep connection with these wonderful creatures, setting the stage for my lifelong dedication to them.
At the tender age of 14, I decided to take my passion to the next level by actively engaging in dog training. Since then, my abilities have been on a constant upward trajectory. I’ve pursued various training courses and had the opportunity to work on a wide range of cases alongside different trainers during my time in Italy.
My training philosophy is centered around a reward-based system that not only imparts obedience but also builds a dog’s confidence. I firmly believe in encouraging our furry friends to find their own answers, strengthening their trust and bond with their human companions.
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with a multitude of dogs, each unique in its own way. I don’t subscribe to the “one size fits all” mentality. Instead, I’m dedicated to finding the best solution tailored to the individual needs of each dog.
While I’ve successfully handled a wide array of dogs, including those with aggression and extreme fear issues, I’m the first to admit that learning in this field is an ongoing journey. I continue to expand my knowledge to better serve these special cases.
My skill-set spans various training techniques, including clicker training, shaping training, positive reinforcement training, agility, basic and advanced obedience, and rally obedience. No challenge is too great when you have a diverse toolbox at your disposal.
But my passion doesn’t stop at dog training. I also offer coaching to families, helping them create a harmonious lifestyle with their four-legged family members. It’s all about understanding our dogs and seamlessly integrating them into our daily lives.
So, if you’re looking for a dog trainer who’s not only experienced but also deeply committed to your dog’s well-being and your family’s happiness, I’m here for you. Let’s embark on this incredible journey together and strengthen the bond with your beloved canine companion.
Alessia currently offers private lessons and board and train.
Daisy Nichols, MS, CPDT-KA
Daisy is a certified dog trainer through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. She has had a love for animals since she was young and originally wanted to pursue the veterinary side of animal care until she began fostering for a local shelter and fell in love with training and behavior.
While attending Purdue University, Daisy interned at a local animal shelter and worked for a pet sitting, dog walking and training facility where she got hands on experience learning about dog body language and training. She finished her master’s degree in educational psychology where she focused on the application in canine behavior.
She moved to Indy and began working as a puppy trainer and worked with various breeds and parents in teaching and preparing owners for their pups. Daisy took over as the head trainer and expanded the program to include adolescent dogs as well.
Daisy is currently working toward her Fear-Free certification and is interested in becoming a trick dog and canine fitness instructor. She also has a passion for nosework.
When she’s not training, Daisy volunteers at the Indianapolis Zoo in the animal care department. Daisy also volunteers with local rescue groups and fosters dogs in need. She enjoys crafting, hiking, plant care, cooking fantastic food, and hanging out with friends.
Daisy shares her life with her pit mix, Tux, her first foster fail, and her fiance. Daisy and her fiance are hopeful that once home renovations are on their way, they will be able to have more animals to share their life with. Daisy is available for both private lessons and board and train for our clients!
Laura Neiheisel, Founder of Carmel Dog Zone 
Laura has had a passion for animals since childhood, particularly dogs. Laura began to rescue animals early in her life. As a teenager, Laura rescued a shepherd mix named Yogi who had severe food allergies and aggressive behavior towards strangers and other dogs. Yogi inspired Laura to educate herself and grow as a dog owner in all realms of care and behavioral knowledge.
Laura remembers vividly as a child going to a puppy class with her mother in the local area. The puppies were all terrified, a few even urinating in fear as they were jerked around on leash. People were frozen in shock, not sure what to do and questioning how this was normal and an acceptable way to train. This sight never left her mind. Years later, Laura vowed to offer an option for people in the area that was not this way. Carmel Dog Zone was born!
The next dog that had a strong impact in her life died of cancer at the prime age of 8 years old. These dogs would forever leave a stamp in Laura’s mind and heart to always pursue the best in training and care. The premature death of her family pet caused Laura to spend years researching nutrition and wellness in dogs. She strongly believed that many pet owners are not properly educated on the fundamentals of dog ownership and was determined to help educate. This passion never left. Her Golden Retriever lived until age 16 and she currently has a dog that is 20 years old. Wellness matters and it can add years to your life with your pet!
When Laura was in college, she worked for three years as a pet food nutritionist from 2006-2009 . She helped educate hundreds of pet owners on proper nutrition and care. Laura continues her education researching the latest medical care, holistic health, nutrition and behavior for our beloved canines. Her goal is to never stop learning.
When you inquire about Carmel Dog Zone services, you will often hear from Laura first over the phone or by email. Laura forms relationships with local Carmel dog rescue organizations with the goal of successful adoptions and placements through training. Laura also offers our Puppy Raiser Program for busy families.
Laura currently resides in another state because of her husband’s job, but frequently travels back to her Indiana home. Laura lives with her husband Travis near St. Louis (on the IL side) with their four kids, and their fur family. Life is full!