About
Planet K9
At Planet K9, based in Spotswood and Werribee, we offer a variety of fun and engaging dog training classes that both you and your dog will enjoy!
We teach gentle, effective training methods that help improve communication and strengthen the bond between you and your dog. And the best part? Everyone in the household is encouraged to join in on the fun!
Our trainers are not only qualified and highly experienced, but they genuinely love dogs. We’re here to make sure your relationship with your dog is the best it can be. Whether you're in Spotswood, Werribee, or the surrounding areas, we offer group classes and private sessions to fit your needs.
For 25 years, Planet K9 has been empowering people to build loving, joyful relationships with their dogs. All you need to do is book in, and we’ll provide everything you need to create wonderful memories with your dog that will last a lifetime.
Our Trainers
I'm Nicole Beasley, and 25 years ago, I founded Planet K9 with one simple goal: to help people better understand their dogs and reduce the suffering of animals. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with thousands of families, helping them build stronger bonds with their dogs, and it’s been an incredibly rewarding journey.
I hold Bachelor Degrees in Science and Applied Science, majoring in Animal Behaviour. This foundation in animal science has shaped my approach to dog training and rehabilitation, giving me a deep understanding of animal learning and behavior. It’s allowed me to create programs that truly make a difference in the lives of dogs and their humans.
For eight years, I was Head Trainer at Australia’s largest animal shelter, where I developed several key programs that I’m incredibly proud of. One of these is post-adoption training, which helps people navigate the first critical months with their new dog, reducing the chance of the dog returning to the shelter. I also created the Behaviour Modification Program at The Lost Dogs’ Home, where I led the team for two years, successfully rehabilitating hundreds of dogs and preparing them for adoption into loving homes.
Along the way, I’ve personally fostered more than 100 homeless dogs. This experience has given me deep insight into the challenges that both dogs and their humans face, and it continues to inform my work. I’ve learnt as much from them as they have from me, and it constantly reinforces my passion for helping people understand and care for their dogs.
In addition to my shelter and fostering work, I’ve trained dogs for major events like the Australian Open and Moomba. Training teams of dogs to perform at such high-profile events is always exciting. Each dog needs to work in harmony with others, and watching them shine in front of large audiences is incredibly rewarding. I’ve also trained rescue dogs to become therapy dogs, and for six years, I ran pet therapy programs for nursing homes with Planet K9’s specially trained dogs.
Beyond Australia, I’ve collaborated over the years with local organizations in Nepal to improve the lives of street dogs. My work with these animals has deepened my love and respect for them as free-living wisdom teachers, showing me the strength and resilience they embody.
My heart dogs—Hagen and Cosmo, my beloved German Shepherds, and Comet, a terrier mix—along with Planet K9’s little boss, who was an irreplaceable part of our team, have all passed on. Their memories continue to inspire me every day. These special dogs have shaped my approach to training and the way I care for all animals. Now, I focus on fostering senior dogs, and I’m currently blessed to care for a pack of four seniors, ranging from 15 to 22 years old. They are deeply cherished, and I consider it a privilege to offer them love and comfort in their twilight years.
I’m eager to help people navigate their journey with their dogs. My training style is designed to make learning fun, engaging, and accessible for everyone in the family. I believe training should be a positive experience for both dogs and humans, strengthening their bond and promoting clear, effective communication.
In addition to my work with dogs, I run Rosie’s Hospice of Compassion, a not-for-profit organization focused on providing compassionate end-of-life care for animals. We also hold meditation groups for animal carers, offering them a peaceful space to navigate the emotional challenges of caring for animals in their final stages of life.
At Planet K9, I personally train all of our instructors to ensure we use a gentle, reward-based approach. Our team is made up of certified professionals from respected institutions like Delta, Gentle Modern Dog Trainers, and NDTF. And beyond our shared commitment to effective training, we are all great mates who support each other both professionally and personally, creating a positive and collaborative environment
Nola Pollard is a highly experienced and nationally accredited Pet Dog Trainer, with a deep belief that dogs are cherished family members, and that training is simply an extension of the love and care we provide them.
Nola’s classes are known for being both engaging and enjoyable, offering a positive experience for both dogs and their human companions. She runs basic manners and behaviour modification courses for Planet K9, where her expertise shines in helping dogs and their people build strong, lasting bonds.
With a wealth of experience working with re-homed dogs , Nola is particularly skilled at guiding families through the process of settling in and adjusting to their new pets. She has worked as a Trainer in the behavioural rehabilitation program at a large animal shelter, where she made a significant impact and was a valued member of the team.
In addition to her extensive hands-on experience, Nola is undertaking a Bachelor of Behavioural Science Degree, further enhancing her knowledge and approach to dog training.
Her constant companion is "Ace," a lively, energetic rescued Kelpie who keeps her on her toes.
Dr Katherine Kovacik's passion for dogs began in her teens when she worked as a kennel attendant at a Seeing Eye Dog School. Since then, she has dedicated her career to understanding dog behavior and finding ways to train dogs in a manner that brings joy to both humans and dogs. Kath received her accreditation from the Gentle Dog Trainers’ Association in the same year she graduated with honors as a veterinarian, and has since worked with animals in various capacities.
In addition to her veterinary and dog training expertise, Kath recently completed a PhD exploring the representation of the human-animal bond in art. Her research delved into why people are drawn to animals in visual media, as well as the role of animals in advertising. Kath has written extensively on the subject of animals in art and canine history, contributing articles to Dogs Life magazine.
Kath is also a published author of eight novels, including Australian Dogs, The Shifting Landscape, and 7 Sisters. She has worked with dogs for television, print media, and corporate events, and has shared her life with many breeds, from Irish Wolfhounds to Borzois and Scottish Deerhounds. Kath continues to train and work with dogs, drawing on her diverse experience and deep understanding of both animal behavior and artistic representation.
Danni McCrae's interests lie in dog rescue and rehabilitation training, with many years of experience in the field. She founded a large rescue group in Victoria, where she worked tirelessly to give abandoned dogs a second chance at life.
Danni is passionate about seeing rescued dogs thrive in loving, forever homes, knowing that this often requires time, patience, and training. She understands the importance of setting dogs up for success in their new environments and works hard to make that happen.
Danni fills in for trainers at Planet K9 when they’re away, providing support and continuity in classes and one-on-one training sessions. Everyone is always excited to see Danni at Planet K9!
While Danni’s two heart dogs, Jet (a handsome black lab mix) and Gus (a lovable staffy mix), have passed, their memory continues to inspire her work and deep connection with dogs in need.
Our Amazing Volunteer
