Meet the Pack
Discover what makes Southpaw K9 more than a training facility
Ryan Davilla
Co-Founder & Head Trainer
Leading with Structure. Training with Purpose.
Ryan Davilla's journey into dog training started with a simple question from his wife, Amy:
"What would make you excited to wake up on a Monday morning?"
His answer? Dogs.
Ryan brings discipline, patience, and laser-sharp focus to his training style. After apprenticing under renowned trainer Tom Simpson in Alaska, he developed a methodology rooted in clarity, engagement, and trust. His philosophy: no two dogs are the same, and training should reflect that.
“We start with play, food, and connection. Once that bond is built—that’s when the real training begins.”
With a passion for high-performance obedience and real-world results, Ryan helps dogs and their owners communicate with confidence and clarity—building companions who are not only well-trained, but in sync with the people they love.
Amy Davilla
Co-Founder
Director of Canine Care & Culture
Nurturing Connection, One Paw at a Time
Amy Davilla is the heart of Southpaw K9. What began as a side hustle—dog-sitting with her young daughter to make ends meet—evolved into a lifelong calling rooted in compassion, intuition, and care.
With over 25 years as a licensed massage therapist, Amy brings a unique gift: the ability to connect with dogs on an energetic level. Her calm presence, gentle touch, and joyful spirit create safety and trust—especially for dogs who are anxious, reactive, or new to training.
“Dogs read energy. They don’t need words to know who you are,” she says.
Currently earning her certification in canine massage, Amy blends play, physical care, and emotional awareness to help dogs feel their best—body and soul. She’s often the first to spot when a dog needs a break, a belly rub, or a moment of connection before returning to the work of training.
At Southpaw K9, Amy is more than the “fun department.” She’s the steady warmth behind the structure—helping every dog settle in, open up, and shine.
Meet Southpaw K9's Small Batch - Call Name:
Booker
Play Supervisor in Training
Booker is Southpaw's newest team member. He's got a high drive and a heart full of curiosity. Whether he’s chasing balls, shadowing Ryan during training sessions, or zooming across the yard like he owns it, Booker approaches life with full-throttle enthusiasm.
He’s determined, focused, and already showing signs of serious potential. Every day at Southpaw is a chance for Booker to grow, learn, and remind us all that joy is a skill worth practicing.
Weller
Director of Athletic Affairs
Weller is the kind of dog who makes everything look easy. A sleek black Lab with brains, brawn, and a whole lot of heart, he’s a fast learner who thrives on challenge and connection. Whether he’s demonstrating obedience drills, sprinting across the property, or just leaning into you for a little love, Weller brings balance to the pack. Equal parts athlete and cuddle expert, he’s proof that strength and sensitivity can go paw-in-paw.
Reacher
Head of Security
Named after the legendary Jack Reacher, this German Shepherd lives up to his namesake: composed, watchful, and fiercely loyal.
Reacher exudes quiet confidence, kind and gentle to those he knows, but quick to step up when it’s time to protect the Southpaw family.
He’s handsome, grounded, and sharp as they come, often seen surveying the grounds like he’s reading the wind. Reacher may be our protector, but around here, he’s also just one of the good guys.
