Photo by client Sarah Levitin

Karen Plescia, CCBC, ACDBC, CPDT-KA, FDM

My mission is to strengthen the human-animal bond through compassionate, individualized behavior solutions.

I started By Your Side Pet Behavior Consulting to offer compassionate, specialized support to pet guardians struggling with complex behavioral challenges. I believe that every animal deserves to have its individual needs met, and that mutual understanding and compassion are the ways to achieve a trusting and harmonious relationship.

My practice specializes in these key areas:

Feline Behavior Consulting: For all aspects of cat behavior, from litterbox issues to inter-cat aggression.
Canine Fear & Anxiety: Dedicated support for dogs dealing with fear, anxiety, and trauma-related behaviors.
Setting Your Pet Up for Success: Proactive guidance and early intervention plans to build a strong behavioral foundation from day one.

The Kitten Rescue that Launched a Profession

My lifelong love of animals changed dramatically in 2007 when I rescued and hand-raised a neonatal orphaned kitten. This experience shifted my perspective and sparked a curiosity to learn about feline behavior. I began a dedicated study, learning to appreciate cats not just as pets, but as complex individuals with unique emotional and behavioral needs.

I have worked with cats professionally since 2013 and am proud to be one of five of IAABC Certified Cat Behavior Consultants in New England.

From Fearful Dog Guardian to Specialized Consultant

My professional journey took another turn when a fearful dog entered my personal life. The struggle to find specialized, compassionate behavioral support and guidance for her was frustrating. I realized that most dog training professionals were not well-equipped to deal with extreme fear and anxiety, Driven by a need to help her—and others facing similar challenges—I expanded my education and practice to include specialized canine behavior consulting focused specifically on fear, anxiety, and trauma recovery.

My professional experience includes dedicated field work in animal rescue and behavioral support. Since 2018, I have been a member of the ASPCA's national behavior response team, collaborating with professionals from across the country to rehabilitate animals rescued from cruelty and neglect situations. I maintain a deep commitment to helping these animals heal behaviorally being through my continued work with both the ASPCA and Humane Worlds for Animals (formerly HSUS).

My Education & Certifications:

Certified Cat Behavior Consultant (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants)
Assoc. Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants)
Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge Assessed (Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers)
Aggression in Dogs Master Course (Aggressivedog.com)
L.E.G.S. Applied Ethology Family Dog Mediation Professional Course
Feline & Canine Behavior Technology Diplomas (Companion Animal Sciences Institute)
Fear Free Certified Professional
Animal Behavior Consulting: Principles & Practices course (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants)
Human-Animal Bond and Shelter Medicine courses (Humane Society University)
Bachelor of Science, Biology (Syracuse University)
Master of Science, Higher Education (Syracuse University)

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My approach as a pet behavior consultant is:

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.

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.

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.

What you can expect when working with me:

Responsiveness - I prioritize responsiveness because I know that when you’re struggling you need relief and guidance as soon as possible.

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.

Karen…understands what pups need to feel safe in their environment. Her methods were kind, self-esteem building, and realistic for our living situation… She was very thoughtful in observing [our dog’s] behaviors and made sure we were setting him up for situations where he could be successful….I would readily recommend Karen to any pet owners who are looking to improve both behavior and attitude and foster a healthy human/animal bond.

Dog Behavior Client

Rhiannon C.