Dog Day School

Aja is a passionate dog trainer dedicated to helping people and their dogs build stronger, happier relationships through clear communication and positive training. Based at Bayside Pet Resort’s North Port/Venice location, she works with dogs and puppies of all breeds and ages in group classes, private lessons, day school, and Board & Train programs.

Certified in Positive Training Methods, Aja combines proven science-based techniques with genuine care for every dog she meets. She completed multiple apprenticeships under mentors with a combined 80 years of dog training experience, and she loves passing on that hard-earned wisdom to the families she serves.

Aja believes that training is a lifelong journey — one that keeps evolving as dogs grow and learn. She encourages regular “training checkups” to maintain good habits, strengthen bonds, and address any behaviors that may arise over time. And yes, she’ll happily prove that old dogs can learn new tricks!

Charles has been a valued member of the Bayside Pet Resorts team for over three years and officially launched his dog training career in September 2024. With years of hands-on experience working with dogs of all breeds and temperaments, Charles brings patience, consistency, and a calm, positive energy to every session.

His approach to training focuses on building trust and communication between dogs and their families, creating a foundation for lasting success. Charles takes pride in helping each dog reach their full potential — whether it’s mastering new skills, improving manners, or simply strengthening the bond they share with their people.

Known for his easygoing personality and steady presence, Charles makes training both fun and rewarding for dogs and owners alike. He’s proud to be part of Bayside’s dedicated training team and looks forward to helping you and your dog achieve your goals together.

Mark has been part of the Bayside Pet Resorts Sarasota team for three years and brings many years of dog-handling experience to his work. Trained under Bayside’s Director of Training, Tracey, Mark combines skill, patience, and a calm, confident approach that helps dogs of all temperaments succeed.

At home, his 15-year-old hound, Jet, enjoys full off-leash freedom, while his young Australian Cattle Dog, Ragnar, shines on the agility course. Their success reflects Mark’s dedication and consistency both on and off the field.

Whether helping an anxious dog build confidence or guiding a high-energy pup toward focus, Mark helps every dog become their best self. Join one of his fun agility classes, offered Fridays and Saturdays at Bayside Sarasota!!

Tracey’s journey in dog training began at the age of 8 when he took his young farm collie to a basic obedience class. After his first taste of training, he enrolled in as many classes as he could find. Eventually, he developed into a specialist for bird hunting dogs. Throughout his 50+ years of experience in training, he has earned his title as one of the “Top Five Trainers in the South” (Garden & Gun Magazine).

His love of recreational bird hunting turned into training every weekend in high school with bird hunting breeds. His first job in the industry occurred naturally when he was invited to a hunting club and was offered a training position on the spot after the owner saw him in action. From that point, his reputation grew across the country and he was called to several states where he began focusing on behavioral correction.

Tracey’s training ideology is to think like a dog, but only the smartest one. Now that he is working with dogs who are pets, he’s driven by his ability to make parents proud to say “That’s my dog, I’m comfortable taking them anywhere with me.