About Teresa Stanczak
My passion for dogs began at age 12, when I started volunteering at South Putnam Animal Hospital in Putnam County, New York. That early dedication grew into a career spanning more than 30 years of continuous hands-on experience in animal care, behavior, and education. Through my years in the veterinary field, it became clear to me that behavior and training issues were among the most common sources of stress for both owners and their dogs. I noticed that dogs were often misunderstood by the people who loved them most, and that many owners simply didn’t have the tools or knowledge to change their dog’s behavior. Over time, I saw how that gap contributed to frustration, strained bonds, and unnecessary hardship in their life together — and it became my mission to change that.
I am a certified Foundation Style Dog Trainer and a committed lifelong learner, consistently pursuing continued education to stay at the forefront of my field. I also hold a Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Technology and am both a Licensed Veterinary Technician and a High School Animal Science Teacher — bringing a rare combination of scientific knowledge and teaching expertise to every session.
Over the past 20+ years, I have had the privilege of guiding countless puppy and dog owners through all aspects of training, behavior, husbandry, and canine health. I have apprenticed under respected trainers and behaviorists including Mike D’Abruzzo of K9-1 Specialized Dog Training and Steve Diller, which has deeply shaped and refined my approach.
At Trained by Teresa, my focus is always on the relationship between you and your dog. I believe a strong bond is the foundation for lasting success — and I am dedicated to giving every family the tools, confidence, and personalized guidance they need to reach their goals together.
Whether you are just starting out with a new puppy, working through challenging behavior problems, or simply wanting a deeper connection with your dog, you are in the right place. Every dog is capable of learning, and every owner is capable of guiding them — sometimes you just need the right support. I would love to be part of your journey and help you and your dog build the relationship and life you both deserve.
Trained by Teresa 