We recently had the chance to connect with Telani Lasoleille and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Telani, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
I think people believe that dog training will “fix” their dog. I think they imagine dog behavior problems will disappear in a few sessions. The reality is that dog training and behavior modification are lifetime endeavors. It does get easier with time, but there are no quick fixes.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My company, The Cooperative Canine (TCC), offers dog training/behavior modification. At TCC, we look for the underlying need that is driving unwanted behaviors in our clients’ dogs. We don’t have a set of “recipes” we use; instead, we take a thorough history of the dog and their behaviors and work to understand what is driving the behavior. We don’t use shortcuts like prong or shock collars. Our methods are 100% humane and focused on the wellbeing of the dog. We also educate the client with the methods we use and how to work with their dog.
My introduction to dog training was in 2001, when I had a reactive dog. I met an incredible mentor who taught me how to evaluate dogs’ body language, understand principles of learning theory, and approach dog training with compassion for both the dogs and their guardians. As a way to “pay it forward,” I often mentor trainers who are just starting out. My goal is to spread knowledge to all who want it. As my mentor would say, I’m spreading weed seeds.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, my parents often told me I was lazy. I really believed I was until my 30’s. I have come to understand myself a lot better, and that executive dysfunction is often labeled “laziness.” Before I realized that, I drove myself to study hard in school, work constantly, and beat myself up when I couldn’t achieve my goals. Nowadays, I give myself the time I need to rest and recover from work and life in general.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
For much of my life, I was undiagnosed with bipolar disorder 2. I had a strong tendency toward depression which led to several suicide attempts. Now that I’ve been properly diagnosed and treated, I find myself filled with optimism, even when things are difficult. Getting the help I needed has made a huge difference in my life.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
All my friends know that dog welfare is of the utmost importance to me. I’m a board member of Street Savvy Dog Rescue, and outside of the time I’m working with my own clients, I donate my time to helping foster dogs and their foster people. In general, kindness and compassion mean a lot to me. How we treat others, whether 4-legged or 2-legged, speaks to our character.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I’m definitely doing what I was born to do. I spent years of my life in office jobs, never satisfied, and job hopping, looking for the “perfect” job. When I was old enough to go to college, my family told me I needed to choose between being a lawyer or a doctor and that there was no other choice. Fortunately, I didn’t end up going that route, or I think I would’ve been quite unhappy.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thecooperativecanine.com
- Instagram: @the_cooperative_canine
- Facebook: The Cooperative Canine
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