About Us


Tri-County Dog Training Academy (TCDTA) was started in 1996 by a few core people interested in training their dogs and holding obedience classes for the community.  By 1999, it was expanded to open memberships and began training at the National Guard Armory in Marinette, WI.  Today we have approximately 40 members and train between 180 and 240 dog owners per year.

Our classes are taught and assisted by volunteer trainers with a wide variety of knowledge and experience.  All instructors teach owners to train their dogs using the positive approach.  We believe any dog, from puppy to senior, can learn and benefit from training. 

Along with teaching, the TCDTA members seek to reach out to the community in other ways, such as supporting local rescue groups, visiting nursing homes and participating in local events.  Several of our members compete in various competitions around the region and are always eager to help others learn the ropes to attaining their own title.

We hope you’ll join us for our next session.  Be sure to enroll early to reserve your spot!

Current Board of Directors

President: Marria Valitchka

Vice President:  Zach Zimmerman

Recording Secretary: Cheri Leiphart

Corresponding Secretary: Claudia Gaveske

Treasurer: Joan Kaster

Elected Board Members:  Brandy Dausey, Viette Hornick, Trudy Wooden, Bobbie Jean Borkowski

Instructors:  Marria Valitchka, Susan Cota, Viette Hornick, Zach Zimmerman, Cheri Leiphart

Lifetime Club Members:  Viette Hornick, Beth LaCanne & Donna Reif