Meet Our Team

MaKayla Binkus, A.S. Veterinary Technology

CEO and Head Trainer

Hi, my name is MaKayla. I founded Hands and Paws canine Training in July of 2020. Although I have had HAPCT for 5.5 years my journey with dogs/ animals started way before then! Since I was a kid I have been around animals and they have always been apart of my life. My love for animals started when I was just 5 years old taking horse back riding lessons. Since then I have spent countless hours working with a variety of animals. Part of which was while I was attending College to become a Veterinary Technician. A big part of my studies was animal behavior/ rehabilitation from both a behavioral and medical standpoint. While in College I was interning with Jan Flanannagn the owner of K9 Tailshakers to expand my knowledge in dog training. During this time I learned how to do canine enrichment, group classes, private lessons, behavior modification, pet dog training and more. I then graduated with my Associates Degree in Applied Science in Veterinary Medicine in May of 2021. During the time of my schooling I opened HAPCT with my mentors blessing and I was able to start helping owners and their dogs on my own. I then continued to further my education by attending webinars/ seminars and private coaching lessons while also raising and training my service dog Pepper.

  • 2019-2020 Interned and worked with Jan Flannagan the owner of @k9tailshakers

  • 2020 (Completed the MVP program by Nino Drowaert)

  • 2020 Received my Fear Free certification (Veterinary Technician)

  • 2020 Enrolled in Natalie Dobkins virtual training platform

  • 2020 Enrolled in a virtual Service dog training program

  • 2020 Became a Certified AKC Evaluator

  • 2021 (Virtual coaching with @walking dog training)

  • 2021 Graduated with an Associates Degree in Applied Science in Veterinary Medicine

  • 2021 (Attended a Service dog training seminar by Lisa Lior Lima)

  • 2021 (Coaching call with Jennifer Bazan @Jen.dogs101)

  • 2022 (Attended a French Ring seminar by Francois Massart)

  • 2022 (Coaching call with Emma @Ravenk9dogtraining)

  • 2023 (Interned/Shadowed Dallas Hamilton from @backtobalancek9)

  • 2023 (I Hosted the Unity Service dog Seminar)

  • 2023 (Signed up for Coaching with Natalie Dobkins)

  • 2024 (Attended a Canine Fitness webinar with @caninephysioandfitness)

  • 2024 (Attending the Trainer in you seminar by Kate and Bethany) Spring 2024

  • 2025 Guest speaker at the Canine Conference

I now actively compete inFrench Ring with my Belgian Malinois Piper and have obtained a Level 1 title with 1st and 2nd place. I have 2 dogs Pepper, and Piper. I have spent hundreds of hours learning from other trainers all across the country who specialize in Behavior modification, Police k9 Training, Detection dogs, Sport dogs, Pet dogs and more. I am constantly expanding my knowledge to better help you and your dogs!

In my free time you can find me doing videography/ photography, going on hikes, working out in the gym, meal prepping, traveling across the country, or relaxing on the beach with my dogs.

Ayla Terrusa, M.C.

Service Dog Program Operations Coordinator and Trainer

Ayla is a graduate from the University of South Florida with a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and a certification in Marriage and Family Therapy. Ayla specializes in using Animal-Assisted Therapy and loves working with children using animals and play-based interventions. Ayla is passionate about helping children, individuals, families, and couples, especially those in the LGBT+ community. She used to be a high level competitive equestrian and then found dog training. She has nearly a decade of dog training experience ranging from behavior modification, police K9's, service dog, and pet dog training. Ayla has had 4 service dogs herself and has trained hundreds of dogs across the USA! Ayla is incredibly kind and brings such a unique set of skills to our team!

Ayla actively competes in AKC Obedience with her current service dog Otter, who has her OB novice title and Rally Title. She also competes in Rally with her field lab Alaska who also has a Rally Novice title. Both dogs are well on their way to achieving more advanced titles.

Alya, like the rest of our team values transparency, balance and kindness. In her free time you can find her going on hikes, traveling with her wife, training her dogs, or enjoying time at the beach.

Megan Hill, B.A. in Economics

Client Coordinator and Office Administrator

Megan is the backbone of client communication and organization at Hands & Paws Canine Training. As our Client Coordinator and Office Administrator, Megan is often the first point of contact for clients and plays a vital role in ensuring every experience with our team is smooth, supportive, and well-organized.

A military wife who values a healthy, balanced lifestyle, Megan brings extensive experience in finance, management, marketing, and customer service to the table. Megan graduated from Bridgewater College in Virginia with her Bachelors in Economics and Business Administration. Her attention to detail, kindness, and genuine desire to help others make her an invaluable part of our team. Megan is currently training her dog, Hiney, alongside Makayla for service work, giving her a firsthand understanding of the service dog journey and the level of care our clients need.

When she’s not keeping everything running behind the scenes, you can find Megan enjoying local wineries, getting her steps in on long walks with Hiney, or relaxing at home with her cats. Her compassion, professionalism, and dedication make her a wonderful addition to the Hands & Paws family — and a trusted support for every client we serve.

Matt Morgan,

Kennel Tech

Matt is one of our dedicated Kennel Technicians at Hands & Paws Canine Training and plays an essential role in the daily care, structure, and well-being of the dogs in our programs. He helps ensure that every dog receives consistent care in a clean, organized, and low-stress environment while they train, rest, and recharge.

Matt supports the team by maintaining kennel spaces, assisting with daily routines, and helping keep the facility running smoothly behind the scenes. His reliability, attention to detail, and calm presence contribute directly to the success of our training programs and the comfort of the dogs in our care.

With a strong work ethic and a genuine respect for dogs, Matt is an important part of what allows Hands & Paws to maintain high standards of care. His behind-the-scenes efforts make a real difference in the day-to-day experience for both our dogs and our training team.