About Us
Who We Are
Where passion meets experience.
At True Companion Dog Training, we understand the deep bond between humans and dogs. Our mission is to strengthen that bond through training, trust, and positive reinforcement. We don’t just teach commands — we teach understanding, patience, and respect. Every dog is unique, and so is our approach. With years of experience and a passion for dogs, our trainers are here to help you and your dog live a fulfilling life together.
Our Approach
Training with Purpose
We focus on positive reinforcement methods, which reward good behavior and create lasting results. Every dog is different, so we take a personalized approach to meet the needs of each dog and owner. Whether you’re dealing with a new puppy or an older dog with behavioral challenges, we’ll develop a training plan that works for you both.
Safety First
Whether it's training, daycare, or boarding, the safety of your dog is always our top priority. Our facility is secure, clean, and fully supervised to ensure that your dog enjoys their time with us.
Our Trainers
Ally Marshall
FOUNDER
Ally has been training dogs professionally since 2009, and began working for TCDT in 2014. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a research emphasis in Animal Behavior, and a Professional Dog Trainer Certification from Animal Behavior College. She is a member in good standing of the Five Valley Retriever Club.
Ally is also a licensed master falconer and has been training and hunting with birds of prey since 2006.
Ally currently shares her home with two personal dogs: Karma, an American Brittany, and Cheddar, a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever. She is an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator
Elena Wickman
PROFESSIONAL DOG TRAINER
Elena has been in the professional dog training world since 2017, with experience both working for professional facilities as well as operating in-home board & train and private lesson services. She has extensive experience in pet dog training, sport dog training, service dogs, and behavior modification. Elena is a graduate of the Jonathan Katz Dogma Academy!
Elena shares her home with her doberman mix, Wally, a belgian malinois, Jarvis, and her new sport dog prospect, Salvo.
Stay tuned for more!
Caleaha Fugelseth
PROFESSIONAL DOG TRAINER
Caleaha is the newest addition to the TCDT team and brings with her a wealth of knowledge and multiple training certifications, including Tarheel K9 and NePoPo© Gold. She shares her home with personal dogs Reuben, a doberman and Howdy, a mini-heeler.
Caleaha is actively building her client list and has openings for board & train and private lesson clients!
Kennel Staff
Athena
Kennel Manager
Athena is at home in the Bitterroot valley, taking advantage of so many of the things our state has to offer. An avid outdoorswoman, dog owner, and mom of two teenage boys, Athena brings with her a background in education and ranch management, with an extreme eye for detail. Her efficiency and care for our client dogs’ health and safety have made her an invaluable part of the True Companion family!
Hannah
Kennel Lead
Hannah, originally from Massachusetts, moved to Montana in 2020 after working as a medic in Boston. A volunteer with Team Rubicon Disaster Response, they’ve participated in relief operations worldwide. Hannah loves traveling, having visited 9 countries and 32 states. Their passion for animals comes from their grandmother, who bred and showed miniature schnauzers. Hannah currently has three dogs: Mooney (bloodhound mix), Daisy (Australian shepherd), and R2-D2 (smooth collie).
Hailey
Kennel Lead
Hailey joined the team in March 2024. In her personal time she loves snuggling up with a dog and a good book, as well as volunteering for the Street Dog Coalition. She has one personal dog; Eve, a border collie mix!
Kevin
Kennel Technician
Kevin joined the team in October 2023. He’s currently a student and is our overnight expert – keeping all of our furry clients safe at the kennel during the dark hours. He is also a skilled contractor and is a lifesaver with repairs and upgrades at the kennel!
Shaela
Kennel Technician
Shaela is a true Montana girl, and has lived in the Bitterroot valley her whole life. She’s got a crazy little farm with 2 cats, 4 chickens, 8 horses, and three dogs – Malibu an Aussie mix, Rip a toy aussie, and Copper the corgi mix! She was an active member of 4H for 9 years and grew up riding horses. Shaela says, “I love every animal. I’m more of an animal person than a people person.” We’re glad to have her!