Owners | head trainers

Rex and Deb Campbell, owners of Campbell K9 University & Daycare, were both born and raised in Coos County. They met in 1986, began dating in 1991, and married in 1992. Throughout their lives together, they have dedicated themselves to serving both people and animals. As foster parents, they helped raise more than 50 children and are proud parents of 14 wonderful children who have blessed them with 16 beautiful grandchildren.

Their love for animals has always been a central part of their lives. Over the course of nearly 35 years of marriage, they have rescued hundreds of animals of various species, with dogs holding a special place in their hearts.

Their passion for dog training began in 2000 when they enrolled their Alaskan Husky, Shasta, in a basic obedience class taught by Lisa Barrington. Lisa’s unique ability to communicate with and train dogs left a lasting impression on them. The transformation they saw in Shasta through consistent training was remarkable and sparked a lifelong interest in canine behavior and training. Over the years, they continued working with Lisa and developed a friendship that remains strong today.

Rex and Deb later completed certification through world-renowned dog trainer Joel Silverman’s training program. They continue to expand their knowledge by studying with respected trainers such as Nate Schoemer, Larry Krohn, and Jay Jack. Their commitment to continuing education reflects their belief that there is always more to learn in the pursuit of helping dogs and their owners succeed.

Their passion for helping people build stronger relationships with their four-legged companions runs deep. They dreamed of creating a community of like-minded dog lovers who could learn, grow, and support one another. Through Campbell K9 University & Daycare, they have turned that dream into reality.

Helping people learn to understand and communicate with their dogs has been one of the most rewarding experiences of their lives, and they cannot imagine doing anything else.

Tim and Penny Horne joined the Coos Bay community in 2022 when Penny was given the opportunity to start a new chapter in her public service career and we haven’t looked back. We have been truly enjoying the slower pace and amazing sites. 

The love of animals is one of the staples of our marriage. Both of our lives have been transformed by dogs. For Tim, it was his Beagle Bo and for Penny, it was her Pug Davis. Without the unconditional love given by these dogs, neither of us would have made it through some of life’s challenges. 

You may have seen us running down the street chasing Tim’s baby girl, a Beagle named Maebelle. She would take off on Tim during their walks, letting her nose take over. Tim would call Penny frantic, “Maebelle is heading towards Newmark, get the car”. Luckily, he caught her every time. That’s when Penny signed Tim up for classes at CK9U. Notice I didn’t say Maebelle. That was the beginning of our relationship with CK9U.

Since, we have taken multiple classes in both the group setting and one-on-one training. We were also able to meet and adopt Rider a German Shepard/Husky mix that instantly bonded with Penny. 

We have been lucky enough to be given the opportunity to give back to CK9U by helping them with their business so they can keep doing for others what they have done for us. We look forward to seeing you around CK9U and not running down the street chasing your fur baby. Maebelleno longer runs down the street but can be seen behaving herself off leash walking with her Dad.