Today we’d like to introduce you to Alejandra Lopez Irala.
Hi Alejandra, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
I have been involved in the cat world for years. I grew up with a cat in my home, and I always felt a special connection with cats and this led me to want to know a lot more about them, that was the beginning of that love that expanded and I tried to create a career that involved cat and animal behavior and welfare. I have worked in organizations, rescues, and with pet owners all over Latin America and here in Miami.
They are my great passion and I continued to learn about animal behavior, ethics, and welfare. I am passionate about continuing education and have completed University-level veterinary extension courses, Fear Free Certifications, Karen Pryor Academy, AVEPA,and became a Certified cat behavior Consultant through the IAABC, as well as being a Veterinary Assistant for over 8 years practicing in the United States.I’m also a Bach Flower Therapist for small animals, I am also completing my degree in Environmental Management, so I can also help more cat colonies and the environment to co-exist.
I currently run my small company Rasca y Pica, whose goal is to help everyone learn about cats, highlighting their welfare. I am also the Regional Director of Latin America for IAABC (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants), which I am proud of every day. My life is focused on the domestic feline, I enjoy to attend workshops and share my knowledge and experience in conjunction with others professionals in basic training, environmental enrichment, and cat human companions. I am a proud cat owner and I insist that every day you have to find the moment that helps maintain the bond between cat and guardian.
I never spend a day without a cat, I love to use my time and all my resources to take classes, workshops, and welfare-related topics in Argentina and other countries. After 10 years of hard work, training, and research, I am proud to have grown in the feline world, having co-created the First Feline Festival exclusively in Spanish.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Embarking on the journey of establishing myself as a cat behavior consultant has been a fulfilling and transformative experience. While the path hasn’t always been entirely smooth, the challenges I’ve encountered have been valuable lessons that shaped the growth of my business.
One of the initial struggles was building credibility and trust within the community. Cat behavior consulting is a niche field, and establishing myself as an expert requires dedicated efforts in networking, education, and showcasing successful case studies. Overcoming skepticism and proving the effectiveness of my services took time, but the positive outcomes for both cats and their owners served as powerful testimonials.
Another hurdle was adapting to the dynamic nature of feline behavior and staying updated with the latest research and techniques. Cats are unique individuals, and their behavioral issues can be complex. Continuous learning and staying abreast of developments in the field have been crucial in providing effective solutions.
Additionally, like any business, there were administrative and marketing challenges. Managing client expectations, maintaining a consistent online presence, and ensuring a seamless client experience required strategic planning and adaptability.
Despite these challenges, my passion for understanding and improving cat behavior has been the driving force behind my perseverance. The joy of witnessing positive transformations in the lives of both cats and their owners far outweighs any obstacles encountered along the way. Each challenge has been an opportunity for growth, and I am grateful for the ongoing support of my clients and the feline community.
As you know, we’re big fans of Rasca y Pica. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
At Rasca y Pica, our heartfelt commitment to fostering harmonious relationships between feline companions and their owners goes beyond being a comprehensive resource for cat behavior solutions. We recognize that each cat is a unique individual with distinct needs and challenges, and it is our genuine empathy that sets us apart.
With a deep understanding of the profound bond between cats and their human companions, we specialize in one-on-one consultations and education. Our empathetic approach allows us to delve into the intricacies of each cat’s behavior, addressing specific issues such as aggression, litter box problems, anxiety, and more. By tailoring our recommendations to the individual needs of each cat and their household, we strive to create not just effective but truly compassionate and sustainable solutions.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.holarascaypica.com
- Instagram: @rasca.y.pica
- Facebook: @rypica
- Twitter: @rypica
- Youtube: @alerascaypica
Image Credits
Mireya Acierto and Sobe Cats
