Dog Lovers Creed

Get to Know Our Team

Blair Hagelgans

Founder | President | Rescue Operations Lead | Canine Behavior Specialist | Animal Trapping Expert

Blair’s lifelong connection with dogs began in childhood, and over the past 50+ years, he has cultivated a remarkable ability to understand and communicate with them. Blair credits part of this gift to his Asperger's Syndrome, which has given him a unique perspective on canine body language and behavior—enabling him to connect with even the most misunderstood or fearful animals on a deeper level.

After retiring in 2016, Blair made a life-changing decision to channel his love for dogs and his extraordinary communication skills into volunteer work. He began at his local animal shelter, dedicating countless hours to rehabilitating extremely fearful and behaviorally challenged dogs—dogs that others often overlooked or deemed “untrainable.”

Blair’s expertise truly shone during the devastating Northern California Campfire disaster in November 2018. At the emergency shelter in Chico, California, he logged nearly 100 volunteer hours caring for hundreds of displaced dogs. Recognizing Blair’s natural talent, staff entrusted him with the most traumatized and “fear biter” dogs—animals too afraid to trust anyone else. Blair’s calm demeanor and unparalleled understanding of canine fear transformed the lives of these dogs, proving his skills were nothing short of extraordinary.

In addition to his shelter work, Blair has become a specialist in rescuing elusive, hard-to-catch stray dogs—using innovative methods and tools, including live traps. Over the years, he has successfully captured dozens of stray dogs that others deemed impossible to save, reuniting them with families or guiding them to their forever homes.

“Since retirement, my life has literally gone to the dogs,” Blair often jokes, but it’s no exaggeration. At home, Blair shares his life with his beloved rescue pack:

Dutch, a chocolate Lab saved from the Northern California Campfire;
Lady, a foster-turned-family-member after being found as a stray;
Tiny, a senior Chihuahua who once lived on the streets with her homeless owner;
Tinkerbell and Trixie, Chihuahua siblings rescued after surviving over a year as strays in rural Southern California.
Blair’s work doesn’t stop at rescue. As a certified positive reinforcement dog trainer for over four years, Blair has earned a glowing 5-star reputation (as Blair. the Dog Teacher, LLC), specializing in fearful dogs and those with aggression challenges. His compassionate and effective methods have changed the lives of countless dogs and their humans.

When he isn’t rescuing, fostering, or training, Blair spends time with his rescue pack, exploring nature and enjoying life’s simple joys. He is also a professional photographer with a passion for capturing beauty—whether it’s fine art landscapes or portraits of shelter pets. His photography has helped numerous shelter animals get adopted, and his work is currently showcased as part of the Avenue West Gallery artist cooperative in Spokane, Washington.

Blair’s journey is one of purpose, empathy, and relentless dedication. From helping the most vulnerable animals to sharing their stories with the world, Blair leads by example, reminding us all that every life matters—and every dog deserves a second chance.

Yvonne Leach

Board Member (Secretary) | Grants Specialist

Yvonne Leach is a passionate advocate for canine welfare with a proven track record of transforming shelter programs and driving impactful communication strategies.

Since 2019, Yvonne has been actively involved with the Dogs Playing for Life program—a nationally recognized initiative focused on improving the lives of shelter dogs through enrichment and socialization.

Her specialized training culminated in the successful implementation of this program at two Spokane-area shelters. In 2020, she earned a Mentorship Certificate after completing an intensive, week-long training at the Longmont Humane Society in Colorado, further solidifying her expertise in shelter enrichment programs.

Beyond her hands-on animal welfare work, Yvonne brings an impressive professional background to Dog Lovers Creed Rescue. With 25 years of experience at The Boeing Company in public relations and communications—most notably serving as the Director of Communications for Boeing Commercial Airplane Programs—Yvonne’s strategic leadership and expertise are invaluable.

As a key member of the board, Yvonne plays a pivotal role in shaping the rescue’s vision and growth. Her focus on donor outreach, grant acquisition, and effective communication strategies will ensure the rescue thrives and expands its impact.

Yvonne has been a steadfast believer in Blair’s mission for years, and when asked to officially join the team, she immediately accepted.

“If we don’t advocate for these dogs, who will? Dogs give us constant, unconditional love. I believe we owe them safety, health, and a second chance when their worlds are turned upside down. Being part of this rescue allows me to contribute to meaningful, life-changing work for vulnerable animals,” Yvonne shares passionately.

When not championing canine causes, Yvonne enjoys a life filled with creativity, movement, and exploration. She is an avid yogi, a nature enthusiast who loves hiking, and a globe-trotter with a keen sense of adventure. Yvonne is also a published poet, and in Fall 2023, her second poetry collection, “In the Spaces Between Us,” was released by Kelsay Books, further showcasing her talent for capturing the beauty and complexities of life through words.

Yvonne’s dedication, expertise, and heartfelt belief in the power of second chances make her an irreplaceable part of the Dog Lovers Creed Rescue family. With her guidance, the rescue is well on its way to creating a brighter future for countless dogs in need.

Brenda Wright

Board Member | Rescue Operations Advisor | Trapping Specialist

Brenda Wright has spent nearly two decades championing the welfare of animals, driven by a relentless commitment to giving them the safety, voice, and care they deserve.

Her journey began in 2005 as a dedicated dog walker at a local shelter, where she quickly realized her passion for making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable animals.

That same year, Brenda became a member of HEART (Humane Evacuation Animal Rescue Team), a Spokane-based rescue group specializing in emergency animal operations.

Today, she proudly serves as the Vice President of HEART, leading critical rescue efforts with precision and compassion.

Brenda brings an exceptional depth of experience to Dog Lovers Creed Rescue, shaped by years of advanced training and hands-on deployments. She is a certified expert in canine temperament testing and aggression assessments, having completed hundreds of evaluations to help dogs find homes that suit their needs.

Her volunteer work with Dogs Playing for Life (DPFL) reflects her unwavering dedication to enhancing the lives of shelter dogs through enrichment programs that improve their well-being and increase adoption success rates.

Brenda’s impact extends far beyond Spokane. She has traveled nationally—and even internationally—with renowned organizations like American Humane, the ASPCA, and IFAW to assist in large-scale rescue missions.

From dismantling illegal puppy mills and breaking up dog-fighting operations to responding to failed sanctuaries and natural disasters, Brenda has been on the front lines of animal advocacy.

Locally, she has also deployed with Spokane County Animal Control and the Department of Emergency Management to provide critical support during natural disasters and cruelty investigations.

Brenda’s commitment to learning and growth is equally remarkable. She has trained alongside some of the world’s most renowned canine experts, including Sue Sternberg, Nicole Wilde, Terry Ryan, and Carol Burns.

Her thirst for knowledge even led her to India, where she spent nearly a month studying under British behaviorist, trainer, and author John Rogerson—one of the foremost authorities in canine behavior.

A retired firefighter with 26 years of service in the City of Spokane, Brenda brings a wealth of invaluable skills to her role, including the ability to remain calm under pressure, think on her feet, and navigate complex rescue operations in challenging environments.

Her experience in emergency response seamlessly translates to the demands of animal rescue, where every second can make a difference.

When asked about her passion for animal welfare, Brenda shared:
"We must be the voice for the innocent animals who cannot speak for themselves. They depend on us to stand up, protect, and advocate for them. Animals enhance our lives in countless ways, and they deserve safe, loving, and healthy homes. I’m honored to bring nearly 20 years of experience to Dog Lovers Creed Rescue to continue this vital work.”

Outside of rescue, Brenda finds balance and strength through weightlifting, hiking, outdoor cycling, and quality time with her beloved pets.

With her unparalleled experience, leadership, and dedication, Brenda Wright is a cornerstone of Dog Lovers Creed Rescue, ensuring every operation is executed with care, expertise, and a deep commitment to the animals who need it most.

Katie Davis

Interim Foster

Hi, I’m Katie—though most people call me Kate. Animals have always been my greatest passion, no matter their size or story. If there’s a lost or stray dog nearby, you can bet I’ll be the one pulling over to make sure they’re safe. For me, every animal deserves care, compassion, and a second chance.

My journey began when I started working in a kennel setting. That experience ignited a deeper drive to understand and help animals, leading me to pursue veterinary assisting classes. I wanted to build a strong foundation and improve my skills, always striving to grow and make a greater impact.

At first, my dream was to become a veterinarian and help as many animals as I could. But when I was hired at a training facility, everything shifted. I discovered the incredible impact training can have—not just on dogs, but on keeping families together. By helping dogs learn and adapt, I could help them stay in forever homes and out of shelters. That realization hooked me, and I dove deeper.

Driven to learn more, I continued my education outside of my training job, taking additional classes while working at a board-and-train facility. As part of my training journey, I volunteered at a local Oklahoma rescue. Whether I was cleaning kennels, feeding, walking dogs, or simply showing them love, I knew every moment made a difference. Watching the animals’ progress and celebrating their success stories fueled my dedication.

I truly believe that every animal can be saved, and every pet has the capacity to learn, grow, and thrive. Each one is unique—just like us—and deserves the chance to experience the very best life has to offer. Being part of their journey, no matter how small my role may seem, is its own reward.

At Dog Lovers Creed Rescue, I’m proud to continue making a difference, one foster and one rescue at a time.

Amy Baribault

Rescue & Trapping Request Liaison

Hi there! I’m Amy, and my passion for animal rescue runs deep. My journey into the world of animal welfare began with a life-changing experience—adopting my pup, Willie, from a euthanasia list in Texas. That moment opened my eyes to the urgency of animal rescue and sparked a fire within me to make a difference.

Since then, I’ve dedicated myself to helping animals in need. I’ve volunteered with local rescues in Spokane and Colville, providing temporary fostering to support long-term placements. Recently, I led a successful operation to trap, spay/neuter, and rehome cats from a local colony, a project that strengthened my commitment to hands-on rescue work. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m only just getting started!

My path crossed with Dog Lovers Creed Rescue through social media, during a particularly heart-wrenching case involving Ms. Moffat and Rocky, two abandoned dogs dumped near our road. I immediately stepped in as a liaison, coordinating with neighbors and Blair’s team to ensure their safe rescue. That experience solidified my desire to help others navigate similar situations, bridging the gap between community members and rescue operations.

Professionally, I come from a background in logistics and communication—skills that have proven invaluable in rescue work. I thrive on organizing resources, coordinating teams, and ensuring operations flow seamlessly. My ability to communicate effectively with volunteers, neighbors, and rescue partners has helped facilitate smooth, successful outcomes for animals in need. Advocacy and outreach are at the heart of what I do, and I strive to raise awareness so more animals can receive the help they deserve.

Rescue is truly a family effort in my home. My husband and two daughters share my passion and are always eager to pitch in—whether it’s fostering, supporting trapping operations, or volunteering their time. Together, we love spending our free moments camping, boating, and enjoying the great outdoors with our fur babies, creating memories surrounded by the animals we adore.

I’m honored to be a part of Dog Lovers Creed Rescue and the broader rescue community. I look forward to continuing this important work, making a meaningful impact, and giving animals a second chance at the love and care they deserve.

Janice Martindale-Maynard

Animal & Wildlife Trapping Specialist

Janice Martindale-Maynard brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and unwavering passion to Dog Lovers Creed Rescue. Her lifelong commitment to animal welfare and her extensive background in rescue operations make her an invaluable asset to the team.

With decades of hands-on experience, Janice has worn many hats in the animal welfare community. She has spent years as a professional dog trainer, an animal control officer, a shelter manager, and a wildlife rehabilitator. For over 21 years, Janice ran her own non-profit, specializing in humane wildlife trapping and lost pet recovery—skills that are now instrumental in rescuing hard-to-catch animals.

Currently, Janice remains deeply involved in animal advocacy and rescue. She volunteers with HEART Spokane (Humane Emergency Animal Rescue Team), providing critical support during emergencies. At SpokAnimal C.A.R.E., she dedicates her time to the Dogs Playing for Life program—improving the lives of shelter dogs—and assists in the cat spay/neuter clinic to help control the local feline population. Additionally, Janice lends her expertise to Wolf People of Cocolalla and contributes to wildlife rehabilitation efforts at a Spokane Valley facility, where she helps nurse injured and orphaned wild animals back to health.

Janice’s mission is clear: to help animals and people in need. Her dedication extends to her own pets, who enjoy a joyful life running freely on her half-acre property—a place Janice has created as a safe haven for her canine companions to live their very best lives.

With her unmatched skills and lifelong devotion to animals, Janice plays a vital role in advancing the mission of Dog Lovers Creed Rescue—ensuring no animal in need is left behind.

Ayla Brown

Blogger | Photographer | Videographer | Content Creator

On January 6th, 2021, a 5-week-old puppy entered my life. I named her Dharma, knowing she would be my “path to enlightenment”—though I had no idea where that path would take me.

As Dharma grew into an adolescent, everything she had learned seemed to disappear overnight. I suddenly found myself deep in the world of dog behavior, reading every book I could find and searching for answers like a woman on a mission. When the library shelves ran dry, I stumbled into the vast world of YouTube dog trainers. While I didn’t always agree with every training method or philosophy, it opened my eyes to something unexpected—digital marketing.

That moment shifted everything. I realized that businesses like dog trainers, daycares, groomers, and shelters rely on digital marketing to grow, connect, and educate. What if I could combine my growing interest in canine behavior with the digital tools needed to help people and their pets? Inspired, I returned to college to earn my degree, determined to work with businesses that shared my passion for dogs.

In 2022, Dharma’s curiosity led me to another defining moment. She was fixated on something in the bushes—and when I investigated, I found evidence that a starving dog had eaten and passed a plastic shopping bag. My heart sank, not just for the dog but for the likely human companion holding that infamous cardboard sign.

Shortly after, while waiting in line at a pet store, I witnessed another painful scene: an elderly woman, empty shopping bags in hand, filling one with prescription cat food and dashing out the door. Customers murmured their disgust, but all I could think was how desperately she—and her pet—needed help, not judgment. I stared at the dog food in my cart and thought, What happens to pets when their people can’t afford food or training? That question haunted me. I knew dog training could be costly, and I realized that many families, already struggling to survive, wouldn’t have access to the resources they needed to keep their pets safe and well-behaved.

Fueled by that realization, I began volunteering at local shelters, building a platform called Dharma’s Kitchen as part of my college projects. It became my space to experiment with digital marketing, learn about pet advocacy, and develop my skills—all while exploring ways to support low-income families with their pets.

After earning my associate’s degree in digital marketing from the Community Colleges of Spokane, Dharma’s Kitchen became more than just a project; it became a vision. My hope is for it to one day serve as a resource for families in need—a place that provides education, compassion, and real solutions for people and their pets.

That’s why I was overjoyed to connect with Dog Lovers Creed Rescue. Blair and his team represent the very heart of what I believe in: compassion, action, and second chances for animals who need it most. Being here is an opportunity to learn from an experienced team, grow alongside like-minded individuals, and contribute to a cause that truly matters.

You won’t find a more dedicated group of people, and I am deeply honored to be a part of this mission. Together, we can create meaningful change—for animals, their people, and the communities we serve.

Our Purpose

“Whenever possible, wherever needed, and however we can.”

Our Journey How It All Began