Welcome to the Trail: Meet Christie Whitt, Your Mantrailing Guide

Are you ready to unlock your dog’s remarkable sense of smell and turn it into a thrilling, confidence-building adventure? Let us introduce you to Christie Whitt, a passionate local instructor who will be leading our upcoming Intro to Mantrailing class.

Who Is Christie Whitt?

Christie is well known in the Jacksonville dog training community. As a Certified Canine Obedience Trainer, CPR & First Aid Instructor, and AKC CGC Instructor & Evaluator, she brings a well-rounded skillset to every session.

Her enthusiasm for mantrailing shines through in her teaching, where she helps dogs and handlers build confidence, strengthen teamwork, and have fun through scent-based activities.

Why Christie Is the Perfect Guide

• Local Expertise: Jacksonville-based and deeply rooted in the community, Christie knows the lay of the land — making your sessions practical, fun, and familiar.

• Certified & Qualified: With credentials in mantrailing, obedience, safety training, and AKC evaluations, she brings professionalism and care to every class.

• Mantrailing Enthusiasm: Christie believes in the power of scent work as both a sport and a bonding activity, and her excitement is contagious.

What to Expect in the Intro to Mantrailing Class

Class details:

• Date & Time: September 27th, a 4-hour immersive experience at Ronnie Van Zant Park

• Cost: $250

• Why It’s Awesome:

  • Open to all breeds and ages

  • Builds focus, teamwork, and provides a mental + physical outlet

  • No prior dog-training experience necessary, no equipment required we have everything you need.

• Perks: Earn a certificate upon completion, unlocking access to further progressional trailing sessions

Ready, Set, Trail: What to Bring & Expect

Your mantrailing journey will be both fun and educational. Here’s how things typically go:

• You’ll likely watch a short video tutorial before the class. If any questions come up, ask away!

• In class, you’ll learn:

  • The scent theory — how dogs perceive and follow unique human trails.

  • Harness and long-line handling skills — essential for safety and communication.

  • Trail shaping — starting with simple, clear scent paths that build confidence.

  • Fun and reward-based learning — each dog follows at their own pace, always motivated.

Standard introductory mantrailing uses a Y-front harness, an 8–10 m static long line, high-value treats or wet food, and sometimes a toy for motivation.

Sneak Peek: Christie in Action

Imagine a sunny morning at Ronnie Van Zant Park:

• Dogs of all sizes sniff and wag as they slip into their harnesses.

• Guided by Christie, handlers approach their first trails with curiosity and excitement.

• Each team experiences the thrill of follow-through — and the joy when the dog finds the hidden person.

• Upon completion, you walk away with a certificate, a proud dog, and a new shared passion.

Christie’s calm confidence and clear instruction will help ensure each dog (and dog handler!) leaves feeling accomplished.

Final Thoughts

Christie Whitt brings compassion, expertise, and a genuine passion for mantrailing to the class. Whether you’re a seasoned handler or brand-new to scent work, this intro course is designed to be engaging, accessible, and — most importantly — fun. With Christie’s guidance, you and your dog will discover the incredible power of your best friend’s nose.

Ready to trail? Click here to reserve your spot.