ABOUT
My name is Xenia. I have lived all my life with animals around. Dogs are individuals with their own needs and desires, and I approach training and behavior modification based on the individuals in front of me (dog and owner). I have been a rescuer on the ground for many years and in may places around the world such as China, Taiwan, Costa Rica, Spain and USA. I became a professional dog trainer because I truly love dogs and I like to help humans enjoy the extraordinary experience of sharing life with dogs. The deep love for the human and non-human animals inspired me to become a professional dog trainer.
​I'm an Accredited Dog Trainer under the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC-ADT) which is one of the most rigorous third part certifications available. I also obtained the Fear Free Certified Professional (FFCP) credential and I can help clients and veterinarians with handling techniques to reduce fear, anxiety, and stress in dogs during visits and medical procedures (cooperative care).
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One of my specialties is helping dogs and their humans recover from separation anxiety and isolation distress. I studied under the mentorship of Julie Naismith, she is one of the leading experts in this topic. I have become a Separation Anxiety Professional Trainer (SA Pro™ Trainer).
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Control Unleashed is a program created by Leslie McDevitt. It is used to help dogs with "big emotions" to learn how to relax and focus in situations in which the dog may have found it either too stimulating or too stressful. In April 2022, I became the first native Spanish speaker Certified Control Unleashed Instructor (CCUI). As of today, there are 116 Certified Control Unleashed Instructors in the world and I'm proud to be one of them.
I'm currently registered at Companion Animal Sciences Institute, as I'm studying to get the Animal Behavior Science and Technology (Dip.ABST) with focus on dog and cat behavior.
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I'm passionate about learning and I regularly attend seminars, conferences, and workshops to keep up on advances in canine science and behavior.
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As I believe in giving back to my community, I recently became one of the participating trainers with Humane Alliance of Rescue Trainers (HART). HART is nonprofit organization consisting of professional animal trainers and behavior consultants who share a passion for supporting animal rescue. I'm delighted to join forces and donate my time along some of world class force-free professionals, to help improve the life's of dogs in need.
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I'm here to help you train your puppy or adult dog, navigate complex behavioral issues such as separation anxiety and build a beautiful strong relationship with your furry friend. It will be an honor to be part of your journey...
"Xenia trained me to work with my dog on his separation anxiety. Yes … you read correctly…. I was trained as well as Duke. She is extremely talented and well trained. She’s calm and very easy to work with. She understood my needs as well as Duke’s."