Exciting events are just around the corner at Sit N Stay! From pack walks to group lessons, there’s something for every pup and their owner.
Take your dog 'Off Leash for Life' with training for the whole household.
Tampa Bay's Premier Dog Training Academy
Our Trainings
Our Trainers
Meet Clarke Inghram, a master trainer with a remarkable journey spanning over five decades. With a career that began in the midst of the Vietnam War, Clarke's expertise as a canine handler and instructor for the K9 Handlers in the US Air Force has evolved into a lifelong commitment to fixing the bonds between humans and their canine companions.
Military Service and Canine Handling: In 1969, amidst the Vietnam War, Clarke was drafted into the US Air Force. His journey took an unexpected turn as he became a canine Trainer, handler and instructor for the K9 Handlers, marking the beginning of his profound connection with dogs. The experiences gained during this time laid the foundation for his future endeavors.
Fixing Canine to Human Relationships: Upon returning from Vietnam, Clarke dedicated himself to mending the relationships between humans and their canine counterparts. Drawing on his military training, he embarked on a mission to use his skills to foster understanding and harmony between dogs and their owners.
Family-Run Dog Training Center: Over the years, Clarke's passion for dog training led to the establishment of family-run dog training centers in Several cities such as Memphis, Tn., Dallas, TX and Cleveland, Ohio. These centers became a hub for excellence, attracting a diverse clientele, including celebrities such as Elvis Presley, Isaac Hayes, and various professional athletes.
Sit N’ Stay Dog Academy (SNS): In 2002, the culmination of Clarke's dreams took form with the establishment of the Sit N’ Stay Dog Academy (SNS). This full-time operation became a testament to his dedication, expertise, and the collaborative effort of him and his daughter, Shalli. SNS continues to thrive as a renowned institution in the world of dog training.
Natural Canine Communication: Clarke's training philosophy revolves around natural canine communication. Utilizing movement, tones, and praise, he eschews the traditional treat-based approach. Clarke believes in a balanced combination of love and discipline, creating an environment where dogs thrive through a deep understanding of their instincts and behaviors.
Legacy of Celebrity Clients: Throughout his career, Clarke has worked with an impressive array of clients, including notable celebrities and professional athletes. His ability to cater to the unique needs of each client has solidified his reputation as a master trainer in high demand.
Formal Retirement and Ongoing Involvement: While formally retired, Clarke remains actively involved in the world he loves. He takes pride in checking in on his family and staying connected with the dogs. His commitment to the well-being and training of dogs continues to leave an indelible mark on the canine training community.
Clarke Inghram's journey is a testament to a lifetime of dedication, expertise, and a profound love for dogs. His legacy lives on in the countless canine-human relationships he has transformed and the ongoing success of Sit N’ Stay Dog Academy.
Meet Emma, a vibrant and compassionate member of the Sit N' Stay Dog Academy family, whose journey began at the tender age of 5. From a Junior Trainer to a devoted Canine Caregiver and Handler, Emma's love for dogs and unwavering commitment to their welfare define her role within our team.
**Early Beginnings and Junior Trainer Days:**
Emma's connection with Sit N' Stay started as a young child, accompanying her mom, who was the Lead Canine Caregiver at the time. By the age of 5, Emma had already become a Junior Trainer, demonstrating a natural affinity for working with dogs.
**Canine Caregiver and Handler:**
At the age of 16, Emma officially joined Sit N' Stay as a Canine Caregiver and Handler. Her dedication to the care and welfare of each dog in our facility is evident in the extra love and spoiling she provides. Emma takes her role seriously, forming personal bonds with every furry friend she encounters.
**Passion for Animals Beyond Dogs:**
Emma's love for animals extends beyond dogs to her own pet dogs and Guinea pigs. Alongside her mom, she actively rescues and cares for cats and kittens, embodying a commitment to the well-being of all creatures.
**Dog Training Apprentice to Shalli and Mr. Inghram:**
For the past 5 years, Emma has been honing her dog training skills as an apprentice to both Shalli and Mr. Inghram. This hands-on experience has equipped her with the knowledge and expertise needed to contribute to the training and well-being of the dogs under our care.
**Awesome Dog Mom and Personal Companions:**
As a dog mom herself, Emma goes to great lengths to ensure the happiness and well-being of her personal canine companions. Her dedication to their care mirrors her commitment to every dog she encounters at Sit N' Stay.
**People Skills and Helping Nature:**
Emma's warm and friendly personality extends to her interactions with people. Known for her excellent communication skills, she is always willing to help both her colleagues and clients. Her reliability, trustworthiness, and genuine care make her an indispensable part of our team.
In summary, Emma's journey from a Junior Trainer to a dedicated Canine Caregiver and Handler reflects her lifelong connection with Sit N' Stay Dog Academy. Her passion for animals, commitment to their well-being, and exceptional people skills make her an invaluable member of our team, ensuring that every dog receives the love and care they deserve.
Meet Layla, our Assistant Operations Manager and Dog Training Apprentice, bringing a friendly face and a warm presence to our dog academy. With a remarkable talent for reading energy, she has a unique ability to connect with both our four-legged and two-legged clients alike. In addition to her operational duties, Layla is the creative force behind our social media content, ensuring that our community stays engaged and informed. Having worked with us in various capacities over the years, Layla has become an integral part of the Inghram family, and she has been a close family friend for over a decade. Her trustworthy nature, passion for dog training, and kind-hearted approach make her a beloved member of our team. Outside of her role at the academy, Layla is a professional recording artist, showcasing her immense creativity and artistic flair. She is dedicated to community outreach and activism, always looking for ways to give back and make a positive impact. With her diverse skills and genuine love for dogs, Layla is committed to helping our canine companions thrive while fostering a supportive environment for their owners. We are thrilled to have her on board!
Hello, dog enthusiasts! I'm Shalli, a seasoned dog trainer with a passion for transforming the lives of our beloved four-legged friends. With over 25 years of experience under my belt, I've dedicated my life to understanding and working with animals, creating a bond that goes beyond the leash.
Early Roots and Mentorship: Since the tender age of 8, I've been immersed in the world of dog training, guided by the wisdom and expertise of my father. Proudly a daddy's girl, I owe my profound love for animals and the art of training to the invaluable lessons passed down through generations.
Versatility Across Species: My affinity for animals extends beyond the canine kingdom. From dogs and birds to majestic horses, I've worked with a diverse array of species, honing my skills and gaining insights into the intricacies of animal behavior.
All Breeds Welcome: No breed is too big or too small for my training expertise. I've had the pleasure of working with a variety of breeds, each bringing its unique charm and challenges. Whether it's a spirited Border Collie or a gentle giant like the Great Dane, I tailor my approach to suit the individual needs of each furry companion.
Passion for Service and Obedience: My journey involves not only training our canine friends but also specializing in service dogs and all phases of obedience and behavioral modification. The joy of witnessing the transformation in both dogs and their owners is what fuels my dedication to this profession.
Part-Time Veterinary Technician: In addition to my role as a dog trainer, I serve as a part-time veterinary technician. This dual expertise allows me to bring a comprehensive understanding of health and behavior to my training methods, ensuring the holistic well-being of our furry friends.
A Family-Run Legacy: Our dog training business is a family affair that spans over 21 years. What started as a personal passion has evolved into a thriving family-run enterprise. Today, my close-knit team, including my own family members, collaborates to continue the legacy of providing top-notch training services.
Our Pack is Our Family: In our world, our pack is our family. The love and connection we share extend beyond the training grounds. We believe in fostering a sense of belonging and companionship, creating an environment where dogs thrive, and families flourish.
Love for Family and Children: Outside of my professional endeavors, my heart belongs to my own family and children. The values instilled in me by my upbringing are reflected in the warmth and care I bring not only to the dogs I train but also to the relationships within my own home.
Join us on this exciting journey where every tail wag and every success story is a testament to the passion and commitment we bring to the world of dog training. Together, let's create a harmonious bond between humans and their furry companions!
Meet Elizabeth, Caregiver and Training Apprentice. We are excited to introduce Elizabeth, one of the newest and most dedicated members of our team at Sit N Stay Dog Academy. As a caregiver and training apprentice, Elizabeth embodies the values we hold dear at our academy. She works alongside her father, who is also a caregiver, solidifying her role as an integral part of our family. With a keen eye for detail and a compassionate heart, Elizabeth ensures that our facility is always clean and welcoming. She takes pride in making sure that every dog in our care is well-fed, groomed, and receives any necessary medication. Her commitment to behind-the-scenes care is unmatched, and she plays a vital role in the training process, helping our furry friends reach their full potential.
Having been with us for a year, Elizabeth has quickly become known for her willingness to go the extra mile—not just for the dogs, but also for the owners and her coworkers. Her hard work and dedication shine through in everything she does, and we are excited to support her growth as she aspires to become a skilled dog trainer.
We are proud to have Elizabeth on our team and look forward to watching her continue to flourish in her role. Her passion for dogs and commitment to excellence make her a valued member of our academy family.
Meet Jenifer, our Dog Trainer & Operational Manager. Jenifer’s journey with Sit n Stay began 16 years ago as a dedicated client, and her passion for dogs has only grown since then. With over 18 years of experience in the dog training industry, she has evolved into one of our top dog trainers, bringing expertise and enthusiasm to every session. As our Operational Manager, Jenifer is the backbone of daily operations at Sit n Stay. There’s nothing in our building she can’t do, from overseeing training programs to ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. Her extensive experience includes AKC dog show handling, and she proudly serves as our AKC Canine Good Citizen test proctor, helping to elevate the standards of canine behavior in our community. Jenifer also leads our Therapy Dog program, where she finds immense joy in visiting nursing homes and hospitals with our Therapy Dog team, bringing comfort and companionship to those in need. Her dedication to both dogs and people shines through in every aspect of her work. Beyond her professional commitments, Jenifer is passionate about giving back. In her spare time, she volunteers for various nonprofit organizations and provides grief counseling, further demonstrating her compassionate nature. We are incredibly grateful to have Jenifer as a key member of our team at Sit n Stay. Her wealth of knowledge, unwavering dedication, and warm spirit make her an invaluable asset to our academy and the community we serve.
Meet Alexis, a passionate and dedicated member of the Sit N' Stay Dog Academy family, whose journey began as a client at the age of 11. From overcoming the challenges of handling both ends of the canine spectrum to becoming a mentorship protege under Mr. Inghram, Alexis has transformed her love for animals into a lifelong mission.
Early Connection with Sit N' Stay Dog Academy: Alexis's relationship with Sit N' Stay Dog Academy commenced when she was just 11 years old. Faced with the aftermath of her Chihuahua being attacked by her brother's pit bull, Alexis embarked on a journey of learning to handle and train dogs with extremes in size and temperament.
Volunteering and Mentorship: Driven by her passion, Alexis volunteered with Sit N' Stay until she was old enough to officially join the family business. Mr. Inghram became her dog training mentor, guiding and shaping her skills for over 16 years.
Academic and Professional Journey: Throughout high school and college, Alexis continued to work with Sit N' Stay, blending her academic pursuits with her dedication to dog training. Subsequently, she transitioned into a full-time role as a veterinary technician at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, where she has seamlessly integrated her passion for animal welfare with her commitment to dog training for the past 10 years.
Passion for Rescuing Dogs: Alexis's heart lies in rescuing and rehabilitating "bad dogs," often taking on last-chance cases. Her expertise extends beyond training, focusing on changing the trajectory of these dogs' lives and giving them a second chance at a loving home.
Involvement in Animal Rescue: Beyond her professional roles, Alexis is actively involved in animal rescue initiatives. Her commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of animals extends beyond the training grounds, showcasing her dedication to the broader cause of animal welfare.
Specialty in Last Chance Cases:
Alexis's specialization lies in working with challenging cases that are often considered last-chance situations. Her ability to rehabilitate and transform the behavior of these dogs reflects her deep understanding and compassion for animals in need.
Service Dog Training and Pet Companions: Taking great honor in training service dogs, Alexis tailors her skills to assist people with disabilities. Alongside her dedication to dogs, Alexis is a proud owner of both pet birds and dogs, embodying her love for a variety of animal companions.
In summary, Alexis's journey from a young client to a seasoned professional embodies the core values of Sit N' Stay Dog Academy. Her dedication to rescuing, rehabilitating, and training dogs reflects a profound commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of both animals and their human companions.
Meet Domingo, an essential member of the Sit N Stay team, taking on the crucial role of our overnight attendant. With a commitment to canine care, Domingo ensures that someone is present at our facility 24/7, providing a sense of security and care for our furry guests.
**Dedicated Overnight Attendant:**
As the overnight attendant, Domingo plays a vital role in maintaining the well-being and security of our canine companions throughout the night. His presence ensures that dogs in our care receive attention and support around the clock.
**Canine Care Specialist:**
Domingo's expertise extends beyond his role as an overnight attendant—he is a seasoned canine care specialist. His knowledge and understanding of dogs make him a reliable and trusted member of the Sit N Stay team.
**Kindness and Efficiency:**
Known for his kind and gentle nature, Domingo creates a comforting environment for dogs during the overnight hours. His efficiency in managing the facility during the night ensures that everything runs smoothly, contributing to the overall well-being of our furry guests.
**24/7 Commitment to Canine Well-Being:**
Understanding the importance of constant care, Domingo embodies a commitment to the 24/7 well-being of the dogs. His presence ensures that any needs or concerns are addressed promptly, providing peace of mind to both clients and their beloved pets.
**Essential to Facility Operations:**
Domingo's role as an overnight attendant is essential to the continuous operation of our facility. His dedication and reliability contribute significantly to the positive and safe environment we strive to maintain for our canine guests.
In summary, Domingo's dedication to canine care, coupled with his role as an overnight attendant, reflects his commitment to the well-being of the dogs entrusted to Sit N Stay. His kind and efficient approach makes him an invaluable member of the team, ensuring that our furry friends receive attentive care even during the quiet hours of the night.
We can't let you leave without showing you some of our cute family members! 👀
