Meet the Mentors

Paul Bunker is the founder and Principal of Chiron K9 LLC, a specialized canine consultancy company dedicated to detection. With over 22 years of service in the British Army as a Canine Trainer, Instructor, and Assessor, Paul has deployed on high-threat counter-terrorist operations around the globe. His tenure in the military saw him excel as the Senior Instructor and Trainer of Specialized Search Dog and Explosive Detection Dog/Handler Training for both the UK and US Military. A pivotal achievement in Paul's career was the creation and implementation of the Explosive Detection Dog Program, which necessitated the development of innovative training techniques and methodologies. In 2017, Paul founded Chiron K9 to focus on detection dog research and conservation/ environmental detection. Under his leadership, Chiron K9 has pioneered unique programs to support conservation and environmental canine detection initiatives, deploying with teams to ensure success. His contributions extend to providing canines and training support for detection research conducted by universities and government organizations. Paul's expertise is well-documented through his co-authorship of several published papers and his authorship of the book “Imprint Your Detection Dog in 15 Days.” 

Based on 25 years of experience, Debi DeShon founded Mussel Dogs in 2008 and expanded to Dogs with Jobs in 2017 to meet the increasing need for conservation canines. Debi is passionate about animals and our environment. Her background and experience includes:

• Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Business and Management from UC Davis

• Associates degree in Exotic Animal Training and Management from Moorpark College

• She began her career in Hollywood by training dogs for television and iconic films like "Beethoven"

• Canine handler and owner of Interquest Detection Canines of Central Valley since 1999

• Founded Mussel Dogs in 2008 and expanded to Dogs with Jobs in 2017

• Trial judge for the National Association of Canine Nosework

Dan proudly served in one of the finest branches of His Majesty’s armed forces, the Royal Marine Commandos, completing what is recognised as the hardest military training in NATO. 

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He has collaborated with some of the top dog trainers in the United States, refining his skills in training aggressive and reactive dogs and protection dogs. In 2022, Dan co-founded and became co-owner of K9 Commando, where he specializes in training and working with conservation detection dogs, bed bug detection dogs, and protection dogs. Dan and Kylie are currently working on a few different conservation detection projects this year. Dan holds a NASDU General Purpose Level 2 lifetime certificate. K9 Commando also offers private and group dog training as part of its services.

Kylie Eichberg-Levitt is a conservation biologist and ecologist with a BSc in Conservation Biology from the University of Plymouth and an MA in Anthrozoology from the University of Exeter.

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With over 10 years of experience in training both exotic and domestic animals in the motion picture industry and working with dogs in private training, Kylie has developed extensive expertise in animal care, training, and animal behavior.

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In 2022, Kylie co-founded K9 Commando, where she serves as co-owner and director. She specializes in training and working with conservation detection dogs, bed bug detection dogs, and protection dogs. Kylie and Dan are currently working on a few different conservation detection projects this year. K9 Commando also offers private and group dog training as part of its services.