ABOUT
Alexandra Dilley
M.A. Animal Behavior,
CPDT-KA
After heading behavior and training at the DC-area’s largest open-admission shelter and rescue organization, it is such a joy to focus my time now helping dogs live their best lives in their homes!
Hi, I'm Alexandra, and I've dedicated my life to helping dogs overcome separation anxiety and related problems. Having worked in shelter behavior for more than 10 years, I've witnessed the heart-wrenching sight of families surrendering their beloved pets due to these issues. It's time to put an end to the suffering and give your furry companion the life they deserve.
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Imagine a world where your dog no longer exhibits destructive behavior, incessant barking, or anxious pacing when you leave. With my expertise and unwavering commitment, I offer you a solution to separation problems that will transform your dog's life—and yours. By utilizing the latest research in animal behavior and training techniques, I can teach your dog that there's nothing to fear and no reason to feel frustrated. Through our work together, we'll restore peace to your home and bring back the joy of having a well-adjusted and happy companion.
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With a wealth of experience in the field, I served as the Director of Behavior and Training at the Humane Rescue Alliance from 2013 to 2021. During my tenure, I collaborated with the ASPCA Behavioral Rehabilitation Center and spearheaded HRA's groundbreaking intensive program for rehabilitating severely fearful dogs. I also initiated and managed a successful prison dog training program at Patuxent Institution in Jessup, MD, while offering comprehensive classes on various topics ranging from obedience to dog reactivity. Furthermore, I provided ongoing support to adopters, fosters, and the Washington, D.C. community through private sessions and behavioral guidance.
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Throughout my career, I had the privilege of working closely with Tracy Krulik, CTC, CSAT, from Separation Anxiety & Beyond. Tracy and I combined our expertise to develop advanced techniques for addressing separation anxiety in shelter-adopted and foster animals. By integrating the latest peer-reviewed research on separation anxiety, we refined our approaches to deliver exceptional results. Additionally, I collaborated with esteemed British veterinary behaviorist and researcher, Dr. Daniel Mills, FRCVS, and his team on a research project assessing changes in dogs with pre-existing separation-related problems during the COVID pandemic. Our findings were published in the peer-reviewed Veterinary Sciences journal under the title "Changes in Dog Behaviour Associated with the COVID-19 Lockdown, Pre-Existing Separation-Related Problems and Alterations in Owner Behaviour."
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Driven by my passion to make a lasting impact, I transitioned to become a trainer for Separation Anxiety & Beyond and eventually established my own company, Home Alone Canine. I've also developed a highly acclaimed online course dedicated to treating separation anxiety. Even now, I continue to support shelter dogs by taking on separation anxiety and other behavior cases in foster homes.
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Don't let separation anxiety control your dog's life or disrupt your peace of mind any longer. Contact me at Home Alone Canine, and together, we'll create a tailored treatment plan that will transform your dog's separation anxiety and provide them with the quality of life they deserve. Let's bring harmony back to your four-legged friend's life and yours.
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Education & Qualifications:
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Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)
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Previous Director of Behavior & Training at the Humane Rescue Alliance, formerly Washington Animal Rescue League
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Founder of Patuxent Institution Prison Dog Training Program through Washington Animal Rescue League & Humane Rescue Alliance
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Co-Founder of Humane Rescue Alliance Behavioral Rehab Center, in Partnership with the ASPCA.
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Former Separation Anxiety Trainer at Separation Anxiety & Beyond
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M.A. Animal Behavior & Conservation, Hunter College, City University of New York
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Completed formal training apprentice program at Separation Anxiety & Beyond with Tracy Krulik, CTC, CSAT
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Completed dog training apprentice program at Humane Domain with Debbie Winkler, CABC, CPDT-KA
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Completed International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants' shelter mentorship program with Trish Loehr, M.A Animal Behavior, CPDT-KA
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Completed Fear Free Shelter Professional Certification
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Additional training education, and mentorship with Jean Donaldson through the Academy for Dog Trainers, Pia Silvani at the ASPCA Behavioral Rehabilitation Center & Learning Lab, Dr. Peter Borschelt, Nancy Williams, and Michelle Yue.
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Two time speaker at the Humane Society of the United States Animal Care Expo.
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Workshops and seminars: Michael Shikashio & Trish Loehr, Sue Sternberg, Clicker Expo, Ken Ramirez, Aggression in Dogs Conference.
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B.A. Music, Wellesley College
Media & Press
VETERINARY SCIENCES
Changes in Dog Behaviour Associated with the COVID-19 Lockdown, Pre-Existing Separation-Related Problems and Alterations in Owner Behaviour
YOUR DOG'S FRIEND
Home Alone: Understanding and addressing separation-related problems in dogs
WASHINGTONIAN MAGAZINE
How to Prepare Your Dogs and Cats for Your Return to the Office
WASHINGTONIAN MAGAZINE
5 Tips For Keeping Pets Safe in the Heat
WASHINGTONIAN MAGAZINE
Should You Take Your Pet on Vacation With You?
WASHINGTONIAN MAGAZINE
Bringing Lulu Home