Photo by client Sarah Levitin
Karen Plescia, CCBC, ACDBC, CPDT-KA
I specialize in cat behavior and dogs dealing with fear and anxiety.
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My lifelong love of animals began in childhood with cats and a dog. As an adult, I continued to have pets, but it wasn't until 2007, when I rescued and raised a neonatal orphaned kitten, that my perspective shifted dramatically. This experience sparked an interest to learn as much as I could about feline behavior. As I did, I began to appreciate cats as individuals with unique needs. I’ve been working with cats professionally since 2013 and am one of four IAABC Certified Cat Behavior Consultants in New England.
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​My journey took another turn when a fearful dog entered my life. Struggling to find support and guidance, I realized I needed to develop specialized skills to help her. I expanded my education and eventually my practice to include canine behavior so that I could assist other owners facing similar challenges with fearful dogs.
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In 2018, I joined the ASPCA's behavior response team, working alongside talented and experienced professionals from across the country to rehabilitate animals rescued from situations of cruelty and neglect. I've continued this work with the HSUS since 2023.
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My personal experiences with my own fearful dog and under-socialized shelter cats, combined with my professional and volunteer work have shaped my education and specialty areas. By Your Side represents the culmination of these experiences – personal, professional, and volunteer – and my ongoing dedication to understanding and improving animal behavior.
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My approach as a pet behavior consultant is:
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Comprehensive - We will discuss your pet's health, background, routine, and environment in addition to behavior. And then come up with a plan tailored to your unique circumstances. No one-size-fits-all solutions.
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Compassionate - I'm drawn to people seeking a compassionate bond with their animals. I do not use tools or techniques that cause you or your pet stress, discomfort, or pain.
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Collaborative - I’m committed to working with you, your pet, and any other caregivers on your pet's team- including your veterinarian, veterinary behavior experts, and pet sitters.
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​What you can expect when working with me:
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Responsiveness - I prioritize responsiveness because I know that when you’re struggling you need relief and guidance as soon as possible.
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Reasonable Expectations - I understand the emotional toll pet behavior challenges can take. I will help you create realistic expectations for yourself and your pet that take into account your physical and emotional capacities, your environment, and your pet's challenges and abilities.​
My Education & Certifications:
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Certified Cat Behavior Consultant (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants)
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Assoc. Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants)
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Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge Assessed (Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers)
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​Aggression in Dogs Master Course (Aggressivedog.com)
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L.E.G.S. Applied Ethology Family Dog Mediation Professional Course
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Feline & Canine Behavior Technology Diplomas (Companion Animal Sciences Institute)
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Fear Free Certified Professional
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Animal Behavior Consulting: Principles & Practices course (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants)​
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Human-Animal Bond and Shelter Medicine courses (Humane Society University)
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Bachelor of Science, Biology (Syracuse University)
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Master of Science, Higher Education (Syracuse University)
