CASEY ROERDEN

Former Director of Animal Assisted Interventions (AAI) Program, Special Education School
K–12 Health & Physical Education Teacher
Professional AAI Dog Handler
Canine Behavior Consultant & Trainer

My journey with dogs has been shaped by decades of learning, teaching, and partnership. Through canine training, Animal Assisted Interventions, education, and rescue work, I have developed a deep appreciation for the unique individuals behind every dog-human relationship.

Sage Ridge K9 was created to share the lessons I have learned from the incredible dogs who have trusted me throughout my journey and to help dog parents who are seeking support with training, behavior challenges, and building stronger, more meaningful relationships with their own dogs.

CALI

Rhodesian Ridgeback | Animal Assisted Interventions Partner & Facility Dog

Cali was my very first AAI partner and played an incredible role in helping build my understanding of ethical, relationship-based work with dogs.

As a registered therapy dog, AKC Canine Good Citizen, and facility dog in a special education school setting, Cali spent years supporting students through counseling, occupational therapy, speech therapy, reading, and educational programming.

Cali is an extremely intuitive and sensitive dog with a deeply gentle nature. She has always had an incredible ability to read the emotional environment around her and respond with quiet presence, steadiness, and care. These qualities made her especially impactful in her work with students and staff alike.

Cali taught me the importance of patience, communication, and truly listening to the dog in front of us.

SAGE

German Shorthaired Pointer | Animal Assisted Interventions Partner & Facility Dog

Sage was my second AAI partner, joining the program while I was still working closely with Cali. As Sage developed in his role, he helped take on part of the workload so Cali could receive ample rest, allowing both dogs to work in a more balanced and sustainable way.

Sage brought enthusiasm, humor, and hope into every space he entered. He had a way of making people smile without even trying, often lightening heavy moments simply by being himself.

As a registered therapy dog, AKC Canine Good Citizen, and facility dog in a special education school setting, Sage supported students through counseling, occupational therapy, speech therapy, reading, and educational programming.

Sage came from a difficult start in life, but he never allowed his past to define how he showed up in the present. Instead, he met the world with curiosity, optimism, and an open heart. That resilience became one of his greatest gifts to the students and staff he worked with.

Sage helped reinforce one of the most important lessons I have learned: successful partnerships are built through trust, understanding, and respect for the individual animal.

Although Sage is no longer by our side, the impact he made continues to influence my work every day.

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever Missed.

WINNIE

Black Labrador Retriever | Beloved Family Member & Canine Companion

Winnie is a beautiful reminder that every dog has their own unique path.

Winnie’s greatest gift is her ability to bring joy wherever she goes. She is happiest hiking, dock diving, playing fetch, exploring fun brain games, socializing, and being the life of the party wherever she finds herself.

Winnie has never met a stranger — human, animal, or otherwise. She approaches the world with curiosity, enthusiasm, and an unmistakable zest for life. Whether she is meeting new friends, welcoming visitors, or observing the incredible variety of wildlife that travels through our backyard, Winnie finds joy in every experience. She has even been known to respectfully attempt to welcome unexpected visitors, including deer and coyotes, as potential new friends.

Beyond her joyful personality, Winnie is also remarkably thoughtful in her interactions with other dogs. She has developed a strong understanding of canine communication and naturally uses appropriate body language to help other dogs feel comfortable, safe, and understood. Her ability to communicate calmly and clearly is one of the many qualities that makes her such a wonderful companion.

Winnie enjoys assisting during select behavior and training sessions, where her confident and social presence can help support nervous dogs as they build comfort and confidence.

As she continues to grow, Winnie will explore activities and titles that match her own interests and personality. Through getting to know her, it became clear that her path is different from her canine siblings. While Cali and Sage found fulfillment as AAI partners, Winnie has shown that she prefers different adventures — and we are committed to honoring the dog she is rather than asking her to become someone she is not.

It is a gift to experience life through Winnie’s eyes and to be reminded of the many small moments of joy that surround us every day. Her story is a reminder that every dog has something special to offer, whether through a formal role or simply by being exactly who they are. I love being her mom.

Our Team: Team Members