Welcome to another exciting episode of "The Garret Wing Podcast"! This week, we’re honored to have Justin Rigney, a 17-year law enforcement veteran with a decade of experience as a police K9 handler and trainer for two South Florida agencies. Justin, who has transitioned into the world of pet training, now travels the country, helping K9 handlers, pet trainers, and enthusiasts master the art of dog training. This episode is packed with incredible stories, expert insights, and valuable lessons from Justin's extensive career.

Justin’s journey into the world of K9 training began long before his law enforcement career. Growing up in an environment filled with violence and dysfunction, Justin found solace and a deep connection with animals. His early experiences with horses taught him the fundamentals of tactile communication, which later translated seamlessly into dog training. These early lessons, combined with a relentless passion for understanding animal behavior, set the stage for his remarkable career.

After a brief stint in professional baseball with the Atlanta Braves, Justin returned to Connecticut, where he stumbled upon a pivotal opportunity with Dogs Unlimited, a business run by his mentor, Chris Spodnick. This internship was Justin’s introduction to guard dogs and advanced training techniques. Working under Chris’s guidance, Justin honed his skills in various aspects of dog training, from handling aggressive guard dogs to mastering obedience and protection sports.

Justin's path took another significant turn when he met John Rodriguez and was introduced to the sport of Schutzhund, which focuses on obedience, protection, and tracking. This experience solidified his passion for K9 training and led him to pursue a career in law enforcement. Moving to South Florida, Justin joined the Davie Police Department, where he quickly made a name for himself with his expertise in K9 training.

Throughout the episode, Justin shares fascinating stories from his time on the streets, highlighting the crucial role of K9 units in law enforcement. He talks about the intense bond between handler and dog, the challenges of training high-drive working dogs, and the evolution of K9 training techniques. Justin emphasizes the importance of trust and communication between handler and dog, recounting a pivotal moment from his childhood when a family dog alerted them to a crime, instilling in him a lifelong belief in trusting a dog's instincts.

Garret and Justin also discuss the changes in the breeding and training of police dogs. Justin explains how the demand for police dogs skyrocketed after 9/11, leading to younger, less mature dogs being deployed in the field. This shift required trainers to adapt their techniques to ensure these dogs could perform effectively without being overwhelmed. Justin’s insights into the balance between old-school and modern training methods provide valuable lessons for both new and experienced handlers.

One of the standout moments in the podcast is Justin’s recounting of his first police dog, a dog he bred and trained from birth. This dog not only became a reliable partner in law enforcement but also represented the culmination of Justin's years of dedication and hard work. The deep connection and mutual respect between them underscore the profound bond that can develop between a handler and their K9 partner.

Justin’s story is not just about his achievements but also about the community of trainers and handlers who have influenced and supported him along the way. From his early mentors to the skilled decoys he works with today, Justin highlights the collaborative nature of the K9 training community and the continuous learning that defines his approach to dog training.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in law enforcement, K9 training, or the incredible potential of the human-dog partnership. Join Garret and Justin for an engaging and informative discussion that offers a deep dive into police K9 units, the evolution of training techniques, and the unbreakable bond between handlers and their dogs.

Tune in to "The Garret Wing Podcast" and get ready to be inspired by Justin Rigney’s journey from a troubled childhood to becoming one of the top K9 trainers in the country. Whether you’re a seasoned handler, a pet owner, or simply a dog lover, this episode is packed with insights and stories that will captivate and educate.