About Us

Elite Pup Training grew organically. Growing up with dogs and feeling a very unique bond with them, Ricky knew his calling.  He started young.  First, he walked dogs in the neighborhood and then trained his family dogs before age 16!  Fast forwarding to his early 20s, Ricky trained with a handful of the best trainers in the country and spent countless hours researching the most effective behavior modification techniques.  With 15+ years now under his belt, Ricky shares his knowledge with the EPT Team and the many clients who come to us for help.  When he’s not training dogs, you can find Ricky with his beautiful family, spending time doing fun things in Santa Barbara.

Vanessa started her career as an office manager more than a decade ago. She has years of experience running a business and took that expertise to EPT over six years ago. Vanessa’s knowledge and work ethic made moving to the current facility at the ranch possible. An avid hiker, Vanessa finds time to get out on the trails in the mountains or on the coastline, enjoying her beautiful family and the place she gets to call home. 

Kayleigh started working at EPT July of 2022.  She enjoys learning more about canine behavior and the work that goes into caring for them.  Kayleigh grew up riding horses and looking after many types of animals including dogs. She’s had at least one dog in the family since she was young and one that is 20 years old!  Going to work every day is easy. It’s the unconditional love and playfulness that gets her to smile all day every day.  When she’s not at work, Kayleigh is raising her pre-teen son and enjoys spending time with friends and loved ones.  She also enjoys reading, painting and is an avid video game lover.

Clarissa started her journey at EPT in July of 2023.  With several years of experience dog sitting and fostering puppies for the local shelter, Clarissa is eager to learn more about dog handling/training and the canine/human bond.  She is in her senior year at Arizona State University studying Family and Human Development.  Clarissa is an avid reader.  In her free time, you can find Clarissa at the beach surfing or hiking in the mountains. 

Lauren has been with EPT since June 2022. She is a junior at UCSB studying environmental science. Growing up surrounded by dogs and horses, they have always been an essential part of her life. Being a part of the Elite Pup Training team has given her a unique opportunity to turn her love for dogs into a profession. Outside of work, she tries to spend every moment she can outside in the sun, reading a book or taking care of her house plants.