Merging her passion for yoga and dogs has been a dream come true for Kari, who has practiced yoga for eight years and worked with dogs for six years, first as a vet technician, then as a dog trainer.

Kari started her work with dogs in 1999 as a vet technician at the Animal Emergency and Critical Care Center in Chicago, Ill., a 24-hour emergency facility with a team of specialists, where she acquired an enormous amount of hands-on experience. After moving to New York City in 2000, Kari worked as a vet technician at a local veterinarian's office for two years, until she became so busy with freelance dog training that she decided to open her own business.

Kari discovered yoga while recovering from knee surgery. She was so inspired by it that she became a certified instructor in 2002, and dedicated herself to its practice by founding the East Yoga Center in New York City. Kari began teaching "DOGA" classes — that is, yoga for dogs and their owners — in 2004.

Kari earned a B.F.A. from the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University in 1993. She is a professionally trained actress, and starred in the off-Broadway production Tony 'n' Tina's Wedding, as well as playing numerous parts in theatrical, film, and commercial releases. Kari originally hails from Toronto, Canada.

Charlie is a neutered male husky mix. He is black with blond markings and a little pink chin.

Charlie was found abandoned on the Bridge-Sag Turnpike by an animal control officer and was brought to the Southampton Animal Shelter where he spent a month or so. He was then taken to the Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons (ARF), just one week before Kari stopped in for a visit. The rest, as they say, is history.

Charlie's favorite foods are chicken and hot dogs. He also loves a good raw marrowbone and will chew on one for hours. His favorite toys are stuffed animals that squeak and he often greets Kari at the front door with one in his mouth. His favorite activities are running on the beach and hiking in the woods — oh, and anything with Kari. He loves car rides, probably because it means he's heading somewhere fun.

Recently, Charlie has discovered agility training and he may take agility classes out in East Hampton.

Charlie began doing yoga in 2001, and started "teaching" a regular class when East Yoga opened its doors in May 2004. He is a true "dogi." Everyone who knows him, and even strangers who meet him for the first time, describes him as patient and calm. People also say that he is very humanlike in his expressions and posture. It's as if he is looking right into your soul.

His canine sisters are a huge part of his life and he will always be the quintessential little brother to Camille. She is his hero. Wrestling with Rosie is also one of his favorite pastimes.