LEZLE STEIN, FOUNDER/DIRECTOR
ABOUT ME
I originally started my journey into the dog world after leaving Billboard magazine in 1998. I decided to intern under Dr. Nancy Scanlon, who specializes in holistic veterinary medicine through acupuncture and herbs. This led me to study in the Animal Behavior and Training Association program where upon graduating I taught at Petco. Being a firm believer in community involvement, I became a volunteer adoption counselor at North Central Los Angeles Animal Shelter. I also assisted training pit bulls through Tia Torres’ program from The Villalobos Rescue Center and with Best Friends. I was featured in the hit blue ray movie "Marley & Me." Past clients include a wide arrange of dog lovers from novice dog rescuers to Hollywood executives and music personalities.
My extensive experience also includes American Red Cross certification in Pet First Aid and CPR, Paul Owens’ Raise With Praise Program, Co-President of Hermon Dog Park, L.A. City Council Spay & Neuter Advisory Committee, Director of Animal Welfare for the Arroyo Seco Neighborhood Council & CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) trained. I have also participated with my own dogs in obedience, agility, shepherding training and scent detection. The Whole Dog Journal wrote an article about my dog Jesse & I about our nosework experiences. I presently participate in nose work & agility with my cattle dog, Blau.
I am AKC certified as a Canine Good Citizen Evaluator and a professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers as well as a member of the Southern California Dog Trainers Forum. I currently teach group classes& do in-home privates. While in Los Angeles, CA., I worked with many rescue groups in the Los Angeles area helping to rehabilitate dogs after they are adopted including Downtown Dog Rescue, Dawg Squad, The Brittany Foundation and Best Friends. I assisted Councilman Jose Huizar with many dog related events in city parks as well.
After Los Angeles, I moved to the mountains outside of Asheville NC. There I ran the Swannanoa Women's Correctional Facility, New Leash on Life program for 3 years. I worked directly with selected inmates and dogs living at the facility how to train dogs that were under their care, getting them ready for a future adoption.
I volunteered with Heart of the Foothills Animal Rescue training the volunteers & staff safety and handling protocols. I taught group Obedience (Beginner's and Advanced), Scent Work and Canine Good Citizen classes there. I also helped new adopters with training help for their new puppy or dog.