Gregory C. DiFranza’s dedication as a dog owner led him to an impressive career in dog training. Dr. DiFranza’s noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in his fields earned him a place in the Marquis Who’s Who biographical registry, where he is recognized for his significant contributions to animal care and education.
An Organic Opportunity
DiFranza’s professional journey into animal care and education grew organically. Having worked in a police training business that did tactical operations training for narcotics use and high-impact warrants, DiFranza began interacting more with police canines. While his business did include training for some canine units, generally, there were not many canine unit classes. However, some police officers would have their dogs in the classroom or in their cars. Eventually, more police began to bring their dogs into the classroom, so DiFranza’s dog training expertise and skills grew naturally.
From his experience in police and canine training, DiFranza understood the need for others to know how to work with dogs on a more basic level. So, he began working professionally and personally more with dogs, understanding that training is more about the human than it is about the dog. With this understanding, DiFranza founded and is the chief executive officer of Kamp K-9 Jax Bch, an independent canine behavioral service.
Kamp K-9 Jax Bch was founded in part as a joke between friends but has evolved into a business that meets the real need for building effective relationships between dogs and their owners. While initially offered as a free class at its launch in 2014, Kamp K-9 Jax Bch is now a nationally recognized educational initiative that focuses on the nature of “pack leadership” and correcting dogs’ most frustrating habits.
Extensive Education
As a highly educated individual, DiFranza holds numerous degrees. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in education from La Salle University in Mandeville, Louisiana, where he graduated cum laude. He also received a Master of Science in education and a doctorate at the same institution. Instrumental in DiFranza’s overall success was his invitation to serve as an assistant at the ranch of César Millan, the world-famous dog trainer and star of “Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan.” He also has extensive animal training qualifications, having volunteered at the Jacksonville Humane Society since 2014 as a dog handler.
Professional and Personal Success
Before Kamp K-9 Jax Bch, DiFranza worked as a deputy at the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office in 1978, remaining active for two decades and building the foundation for his future ventures.
DiFranza’s professional successes can be seen throughout his various accomplishments. As the recipient of the Jax Chamber of Commerce Small Business Leader of the Year award in 2020 and 2023, he continues to be recognized for his expertise and skill in animal care and education. He has also been recognized as 2023’s Top Entrepreneur by the Jacksonville Daily Record and received the 2023 Bold City Community Choice Award for Best Pet Training. He also serves as the president of WinFirst International Inc., an advanced police training company with years of global experience.
Outside of animal care, DiFranza is the owner and head instructor at First Coast Kodokan Judo, a club that primarily teaches students the traditions of competitive judo. He first competed in Kodokan Judo in 1966, winning regional championships such as the Florida State Police Olympics, the Sunshine State Games, and the Disney World International Festival of Martial Arts. He is also a three-time World Police & Fire Games Champion.
Additionally, DiFranza has enjoyed and succeeded as an independent photographer through his self-titled company, established in 2010 to showcase his landscape, wildlife, and architectural images.
