Sunshine K9s

Sunshine K9s offers K9 Nose Work/Scent Work classes structured into sessions. Session 1, “Intro to Nose Work,” is held indoors and introduces dogs to scenting using their preferred motivator, teaching them to search boxes with varying objects and heights. “Nose Work Foundations” (Sessions 2-4) continues to improve searching skills, introduces the target odor Birch, and incorporates outdoor and vehicle searches. “Intermediate Nose Work” (Sessions 5-7) focuses on developing handler skills, increasing search difficulty, and teaching dogs to find additional target odors used in popular competitions.

Advanced drop-in classes are available for trial preparation, skill refinement, or continued fun, requiring completion of Sessions 1-7 or instructor approval. These classes offer options for regular or occasional attendance. Classes are limited to 6-7 dog/handler teams, with dogs worked individually and crated when not actively searching. The facility is heated and air-conditioned, and lessons are held both indoors and outdoors, weather permitting.

Pricing Summary

Sessions consist of six classes. The price per dog/team for six classes is $170. For the same handler with two or more dogs, the price is $142. Advanced Classes are also available as a 6-pack for $170, or per class for $40. K9 Scent Games has a one-time registration fee of $35 per dog, which is valid for the lifetime of the dog. Private lessons are not currently being offered.

Policies

If a student decides to withdraw before classes begin, their deposit will be forfeited. No refunds are provided if a student chooses to drop out at any point during a session of classes. However, if a session of classes is canceled by Sunshine K9s, a refund will be issued.

Sunshine K9s reserves the right to dismiss a dog from classes, lessons, or an event if the dog is deemed unhealthy or if its behavior is unsuitable for the services provided, with no refund given under such circumstances. For missed classes where advance notice is given, efforts will be made to catch up the student during a future class. If this is not possible, Sunshine K9s may offer a make-up lesson, typically 30 minutes long, at 50% of the cost of a private lesson. For advanced classes, a minimum of 24 hours’ written notice via email or text is required for cancellation to avoid being charged for the class.

Sunshine K9s is a dog training business dedicated to helping dogs, with a primary focus on Nose Work/Scent Work. Head trainer Rosana Dropkin concentrates her talents on this sport to provide the best possible training. The business aims to show dogs a new life beyond just training.

Nose Work is described as a highly fun and challenging game, developed for pet dogs and based on professional detection dog training. It is suitable for all dogs, including high-drive dogs needing mental exercise and newly adopted dogs that can benefit from increased confidence.

The training builds confidence in dogs, provides an outlet for their excess physical and mental energy, allows participation in an exciting activity that is not too physically demanding for the human, and engages senior or physically challenged dogs. It also deepens the bond between dog and handler. Sunshine K9s also hosts K9 Scent Games trials, a new sanctioning organization for scent work competitions, offering various levels and search elements.

Accomplishments

Rosana Dropkin is the head trainer at Sunshine K9s, holding certifications as a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA), and a Certified K9 Nose Work Instructor (CNWI). She was part of the first class of Certified Nose Work Instructors by NACSW in June 2011 and previously served as NACSW’s National Score Room Director. Her experience includes officiating and judging numerous ORTs, assisting as a Trial Coordinator, and training as a Certifying Official for trials.

Rosana introduced K9 Nose Work to East Tennessee in January 2015. She is also a Certified Bio-Detection Dog Trainer (CBDT), Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, Fear Free Certified Trainer, and a Separation Anxiety Specialist. She has been working with dogs since 2000 and has been a professional member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) since 2001. Her personal rescue dogs—Moo, Baron, and Quincy—have achieved numerous titles and awards in NACSW and K9 Scent Games competitions, including NW3, SDA, NW3 ELITE, SGE, and NW1, along with multiple first-place finishes and special recognitions like the Harry Award and Iron Nose Award.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients interested in classes are encouraged to email Sunshine K9s to check on availability. Spaces in classes are filled based on the order in which registration forms and deposits are received. For those interested in advanced drop-in classes, it is mandatory to email before attending to confirm space availability.