Kristi May is a U.S. Army Combat Veteran and the Founder of Legend Acres and the nonprofit Legend Heroes. With over seven years of service, including deployment to Iraq as a Preventive Medicine Specialist (MOS 68S), Kristi now dedicates her life to helping others through animal-assisted therapy and service dog training.
She is a certified instructor and evaluator with credentials from the AKC, CHA, Pet Partners, and the Pet Professional Guild. Kristi has been featured in Surprise City Lifestyle Magazine and recognized for her community involvement and leadership in Veteran and animal wellness initiatives.
Kristi volunteers her time mentoring Veterans and military spouses, leading fundraisers for the Legend Heroes Scholarship Fund, and organizing educational events across the U.S. Her impact is seen in every life she touches—both human and animal.
Legend Heroes
My proudest accomplishment is founding Legend Acres, a force-free, fear-free training academy that has transformed the lives of thousands of dogs, horses, and their families nationwide. After serving in the U.S. Army, I channeled my passion for animal science and behavior into building a business rooted in education, compassion, and empowerment. I’ve earned multiple professional certifications—including in cognitive behavior, animal nutrition, and therapeutic evaluation—allowing me to bridge the gap between veterinary care and real-life training solutions. A major milestone was earning the distinction of CHA Certified Riding Instructor and launching an inclusive curriculum that serves military families, children, and individuals with disabilities. My journey has been shaped by service, purpose, and the belief that animals change lives. Being named Arizona's Vetrepreneur of the Year® is a meaningful honor that reaffirms the impact of this work and the value of giving back through knowledge, leadership, and community service.
Kristi Kay May is the Founder of Legend Acres, a nationally recognized provider of force-free, fear-free dog and horse training solutions. A U.S. Army veteran, Kristi brings over 20 years of animal health and behavior expertise, holding credentials including MS, CVPM, LVMT, ABCDT, CHA Certified Instructor, and certifications in Animal Cognition and Equine Nutrition. Under her leadership, Legend Acres has become a trusted educational hub offering evidence-based training and wellness programs across the country. Kristi is a passionate advocate for community service, therapy animal work, and veteran mental health support through animal partnerships. Her programs are known for empowering both animals and their people through science-backed training, emotional support animal guidance, and accessible behavior education. Kristi’s impact is seen in every transformed pet-family relationship and in her dedication to mentoring aspiring trainers. Her recognition as Arizona’s Vetrepreneur of the Year® reflects her ongoing mission to serve, teach, and inspire.
