About Squirrel Valley Dogs

“It is not training but love which impels them to break their silence about me with the thud of a tail rippling against my chair on gambols round the study, or news conveyed by expressive ear, nose, and paw. Often I yearn to give them speech, their motions are so eloquent with things they cannot say.”
-Helen Keller 

Squirrel Valley Dog Training is owned and operated by professional dog trainer Stephanie Salas. Stephanie specializes in teaching dogs of all breeds and backgrounds how to be great family pets.  

Stephanie became a dog trainer after getting involved with dog rescue and witnessing how many dogs ended up in shelters because of behavior issues, most of which were caused by a simple lack of training and socialization. Over the course of her career Stephanie has worked with numerous dog owners to resolve issues ranging from house training to severe aggression, has been the lead trainer for basic obedience and puppy kindergarten classes, and has presented a series of seminars on training and safety topics to San Antonio's highest volume rescue facility.

Prior to dog training, Stephanie's professional career with animals began in 2005 at SeaWorld San Antonio, where she worked as a diver/caretaker in the aquarium department. As a diver Stephanie had the opportunity to work one-on-one with the aquarium's spotted eagle rays, target training them for shows and wellness exams. She also has several years of experience as a vet assistant and clinic manager, where she further honed her abilities to read canine body language and handle difficult and sometimes aggressive dogs. When she isn't training dogs Stephanie is working with a variety of other animals as an exotic animal handler/trainer for Zoomagination. This opportunity has allowed her to learn about and work with animals ranging from warthogs to camels, experiences which have helped to challenge and strengthen Stephanie's training approach and skills with all animals including dogs.   

Stephanie has always been a believer in lifelong learning and strives to increase her knowledge and skills constantly through continuing education and mentor-ships. She uses modern, science based techniques and focuses on developing clear, consistent ways for owners to communicate with their dogs that creates better behavior and happier relationships.