Meet our Trainers
Meet our Trainers
Brian Gibbs, CPDT-KA
Dog Training Instructor
Brian became interested in working with dogs after his dog Sonny passed away. Knowing the time was not right to get another dog, he began volunteering at Saving Grace Animals for Adoption. There, he spent many hours playing and working with a wide variety of dogs.
Brian is interested in learning and teaching about the canine world and about how dogs interact with each other and with people. Brian received his CPDT-KA certification in 2023.
Heather Daniel, CPDT-KA
Dog Training Instructor
Heather has always loved having dogs in her family ever since she was a child. After a long career in Digital Marketing, she decided it was time to take a chance and pursue her passion for helping owners build a strong bond and trust with their pets. Heather started volunteering at Paws4ever in April 2022 and was thrilled to be asked to join the team shortly after. She has now earned her CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed).
The biggest joy Heather gets from training is seeing the confidence a dog gains as soon as they’ve learned a new behavior. There is a moment a light bulb goes off and they truly understand what is being asked of them. She believes that when working with a dog it is a team effort and not one party demanding something from the other.
Heather lives in Mebane with her dog Hornsby, husband Phil, and 3 chickens.
Maida Barbour, CPDT-KA
Dog Training Instructor
Maida joined the Paws4ever team in September 2024, bringing 17 years of dog training experience primarily from the Austin, Texas area. She specializes in Assistance Dog Training and Behavioral Consulting. Maida finds joy in helping dogs and their owners lead happier lives together.
At home, she shares her life with a lovable pack of pets that includes Luann the pit bull, Roo the silver Labrador, and Archie, an African Grey Parrot! When she’s not training dogs, you can find her cooking up delicious meals or enjoying her favorite tunes, especially at live music events.