About Woofie's Pal

Oscar

Principal

As a child, I was always fascinated by animals, especially dogs. My first encounter with a dog ended with me getting bitten, but that didn't make me hate them. In fact, it drew me closer and made me want to learn more about how to raise and care for a dog. I started volunteering at the Animal Rescue Center and did whatever I could to help stray dogs and cats, and that was when I started working a lot more with dogs! It was so much fun, and they are always so adorable! My family and I rescued a few cats and dogs, and today we are the proud owners of 4 dogs and 5 cats: a little crowded, but fun. I remembered, whenever it was time to travel, sending them away always made us anxious, and we ended up feeling guilty because they spent their day in a cage. Knowing that anxiety first-hand, in 2019 I opened a daycare center that is now known as Woofie's Pal. Guided by understanding and empathy, I envisioned a place where dogs could come to have fun, play and explore without feeling locked up in a cage. The same principle has guided us from 2019 until now, approaching our 7th birthday. I would like to sincerely extend my appreciation to all the parents, families, friends and staff who have supported Woofie's Pal throughout its journey. Without you, we wouldn't be here.

Strengths

• Understanding & empathy
• Animal rescue roots

With Woofie's Pal since 2019

Joanna

Head Teacher/Trainer

I have always loved dogs and wanted one since I was a kid. I remember asking my parents several times a year! But we all had busy schedules and lived in an apartment in Paris, so it never happened. That must have sparked my passion to spend as much time as possible with dogs and learn everything I could about them. I ended up looking after many dogs instead of the one I was hoping to have! At 14, I was caring for all my friends' dogs, and just a few years later I began working as a dog sitter and dog walker in Paris. Curious about the special bond between dogs and humans, I went on to learn about dog training, dog behavior and communication… and I haven't stopped since. In 2012, my first students became my best teachers: a very fearful 2-year-old rescued Galgo mix from Spain and a purebred Border Collie puppy. After all these years training in Europe, Australia and Asia, I have had the chance to help many dog parents and their beloved companions. Together we have overcome behavioral issues such as aggression, excessive barking or destruction, and we have also trained to build a safe, happy and peaceful future for them. Along my journey as a dog training coach, I have come across many different training methods, and I have observed and learnt from all the dogs I trained with. My priority today is to promote understanding, kindness and healthy communication between dogs and humans: using and teaching positive reinforcement methods, without inflicting pain or creating fear to be listened to. That's what I do best, and that's what we do at Woofie's Pal.

Strengths

• Positive reinforcement
• No pain, no fear
• Dog–human communication