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 Program Coordinator & 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.
Kaitlyn Staib
Dog Training Instructor
Kaitlyn joined the Paws4ever team in May 2026 after first volunteering with our Dog Training Program, where she assisted in group classes and built a strong foundation in science-based, positive reinforcement training. Her dedication and natural connection with both dogs and their families quickly made her a valued part of the team.
Before stepping into her role as a Dog Training Instructor, Kaitlyn gained hands-on experience across multiple areas of animal care, including dog daycare and boarding, kennel work, and becoming an AKC-certified dog groomer. These roles helped shape her strong work ethic, attention to detail, and deep understanding of canine behavior, all of which she brings into her training approach.
Kaitlyn is passionate about helping dogs and their people communicate more clearly and confidently. She finds the most fulfillment in seeing that progress come to life, when both ends of the leash begin to truly understand one another.