Pawsitive Approach : Meet Our Team
Evelia V Rivera- CPDT-KA
Meet Evelia Rivera, CPDT-KA, the dedicated owner and trainer of PAWsitive Approach, LLC. Evelia's journey into animal training began at the University of Bridgeport, where she earned her bachelor's degree. From 2006 to 2016, she honed her skills at the Maritime Aquarium, evolving into a seasoned marine mammal trainer with hands-on experience working with sea turtles, seals, meerkats, and more.
Evelia's commitment to learning and benefiting others is evident in her diverse background. Her skills have been cultivated through volunteering at Horse of Connecticut, serving as a past co-secretary of the Beardsley Zoo chapter of the American Association of Zookeepers, and engaging in therapy dog training since 2012. As a Canine Good Citizen Evaluator since 2015, she plays a crucial role in promoting well-behaved and socially responsible dogs.
From 2016-2021, Evelia served as the Behavior Coordinator at a local shelter, demonstrating her passion for improving the lives of shelter animals. Her dedication extends to professional memberships, including the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) and the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT). As a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), Evelia brings a wealth of expertise to her training programs.
Evelia's knowledge and commitment to animal welfare have also led her to share her insights at the International Marine Animal Trainer Association (IMATA) conferences, where she presented on sea turtle training and lionfish handling and conditioning.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Evelia, a native of Bridgeport, CT, developed her love and respect for animals during family trips to the Connecticut Beardsley Zoo. Her childhood dream of working with marine life or horses has blossomed into a fulfilling career. When she's not immersed in her work, Evelia is a busy mother of three, Ariel, Caleb, and Khalani. For leisure, she finds joy in clicker training cats, showcasing her passion for positive and effective training methods.
Join Evelia at PAWsitive Approach, where her extensive experience and genuine love for animals create a positive and enriching environment for both pets and their owners.
Michael Maloney (Mike)
With over 20 years with dogs of all shapes and sizes—from Yorkies to Great Danes with his favorite breed being the lovable and loyal Pitbull Terrier.
When he's not out walking dogs, Mike enjoys spending time in the great outdoors, fishing, camping, and hiking—adventures that make him the perfect match for canine companions who love exploring as much as he does.
At home, Mike shares his life with his wife, their three kids, and three cats, making his household as lively as it is full of love. Whether your dog needs a dependable walker or just a little extra care, Mike’s passion and expertise make him a trusted friend for both pets and their people.
