Meet our professional instructors
At Independence K9, we specialize in training all dogs, offering puppy classes, behavior modification, basic, intermediate, and advanced obedience. We also have extensive knowledge in training detection dogs and personal protection dogs.
Shane Bradley
I’m a retired Federal LEO with over 35 years of canine capers under my belt! Got a specific breed, size, or challenge? No problem! We’ll whip your pup into shape to fit your lifestyle like a glove. Whether it’s a sport dog, detection/patrol dog, or your very own furry bodyguard, you can trust our expertise to help you and your pooch form an unbreakable bond!
Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Evaluator | DCJS Certified
Ryan Long
I developed a passion for dogs early in life, but it wasn't until after I sustained life-altering injuries while serving in Afghanistan in 2011-2012 that I truly began to appreciate their impact and my perspective fundamentally transformed. In 2018, I was gifted a service dog to assist with my PTSD and mobility challenges, and he profoundly changed my life. Before receiving my service dog, I found myself in one of the darkest periods I had ever experienced, feeling defeated and hopeless. However, his presence revitalized my spirit, instilling in me a renewed sense of purpose and optimism for the future. This experience inspired me to expand my focus to include pets, detection dogs, and personal protection dogs, and now I am excited and honored to have the opportunity to share my passion with you.
Lilah Bernard
I am a U.S. Army veteran who served an intelligence officer in the 525th Military Intelligence Brigade, 3rd Special Forces Group and Joint Special Operations Command. I was attached to Naval Special Warfare Development Group and provided field intelligence support for National Level Counterterrorism operations for over a decade. After leaving the military I worked as a contractor, primarily serving in the intelligence communities. Then, I became a serial entrepreneur, starting businesses that serviced large contracts for various U.S. military units and government agencies.
However, my true passion has always been everything “dog.” I started my official K9 career by obtaining a certification as a handler and instructor. For years I volunteered with numerous rescues, fostered dogs, and have dipped my toes in various K9 sports. When I am not working, you will find me with running around with my own little pack of: two Doberman Pinschers, two Belgian Malinois, a Dutch Shepherd, a Bichon Frise, or just riding horses!
I also have a 7 year old son that loves doggo’s as much as I do. Because of him, we decided to start the Pro Pup’s Program to help educate children in the roles and responsibilities of a good dog ownership.
I truly enjoy helping families find a balanced approach with their furry friends and educating others of different ways of achieving their desired outcome. I look forward to working with our clients and building a fur-ever relationship!
Harley Freeborn
I have served 10 years the United States Marine Corps where I learned a strong foundation of leadership, focus, and a deep appreciation for teamwork—qualities that seamlessly translate into working with both dogs and their handlers.
Growing up in a household of dogs, my passion for canine companionship began early and naturally evolved into a lifelong commitment to understanding and training dogs. With over 6 years of professional experience specializing in personnel protection dogs and patrol dogs, I have honed advanced skills in canine behavior.
I am a certified sport decoy for the K9 Street League North America Dogsport Federation and certified trainer and handler.
With a combination of military discipline, professional certifications, and a lifelong passion for dogs, I am dedicated to empowering both dogs and their handlers to achieve their fullest potential.
