Meet Ale Lopez Irala

We recently connected with Ale Lopez Irala and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Ale with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?

My work ethic comes from a combination of factors. From a young age, my parents instilled in me the importance of responsibility and dedication. Growing up with a cat at home sparked my passion for these animals and led me to build a career focused on their well-being and behavior.

I’ve worked with organizations, rescues, and pet owners in Argentina and the U.S., where I learned the value of integrity and excellence. My academic background and ongoing participation in workshops with veterinarians have been fundamental to my professional development.

Moreover, my love for teaching and sharing knowledge about feline behavior, along with my role as a Bach Flower Therapist for Small Animals, drives me to maintain a strong work ethic. As a proud cat owner, I firmly believe in the importance of daily efforts to strengthen the bond between cats and their owners.

After more than 10 years of experience, I am proud of my growth in the feline world and my ability to positively contribute to the well-being of so many cats and their families.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

My journey into the world of cats began in my childhood, growing up with a feline companion at home. This early connection sparked a lifelong passion for these amazing animals, leading me to build a career focused on their behavior and well-being.

I am Alejandra López Irala, a Certified Cat Behavior Consultant (CCBC) and the founder of Rasca y Pica in Buenos Aires, Argentina. My goal is to help everyone learn about cats and emphasize their well-being. I have worked with various organizations, rescues, and pet owners across Argentina and the United States, where I consult on feline behavior, teach through writing, and provide therapeutic services as a Bach Flower Therapist for Small Animals.

What excites me most about my work is the opportunity to improve the lives of both cats and their owners by enhancing their understanding and relationships. One aspect that I find particularly special is the holistic approach I take in my practice. By integrating traditional behavioral strategies with alternative therapies like Bach Flower Remedies, I can offer comprehensive solutions that address both the emotional and physical well-being of cats.

I am passionate about continuing education and have completed advanced veterinary and related behavior , I have been a veterinary assistant for more than 8 years, also I am always volunteering at cat clinics if I have the chance too. Currently, I am pursuing a degree in Environmental Management.

I am focusing on expanding my outreach and educational efforts. This includes participating in workshops alongside veterinarians, focusing on basic training, environmental enrichment, and strengthening the bond between cats and their human companions. I am also planning to launch a series of online courses and webinars to make my expertise more accessible to a global audience. Additionally, I am proud to have co-created the first Spanish-language Feline Festival.

Never a day goes by without a cat in my life, and I continue to be amazed every time I see one. After more than 10 years of hard work, training, and research, I am proud of my growth in the feline community and look forward to contributing even more to the well-being of these beloved animals and their families.”

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

One of the most impactful qualities in my journey has been an unwavering passion and dedication to the well-being of cats. This passion has driven me to continuously learn, improve, and stay committed to my work, no matter the challenges.

Adopting a holistic approach that integrates traditional behavioral strategies with alternative therapies, such as Bach Flower Remedies, has been crucial. This comprehensive perspective allows for a more thorough understanding and addressing of the needs of cats.

The ability to communicate effectively with pet owners, colleagues, and the broader community has been essential. It helps in educating others, sharing knowledge, and fostering strong relationships.

Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?

Several individuals and groups have been instrumental in my journey, helping me overcome challenges and develop essential skills and knowledge.

My Family: My parents instilled in me the values of responsibility, dedication, and compassion. Growing up with a cat, they nurtured my love for animals and encouraged me to pursue my passion.

Professional Mentors and Colleagues: Experienced professionals in animal behavior and veterinary care have been invaluable mentors throughout my career.

Educational Institutions and Organizations: Organizations like IAABC, Pet Professional Guild (PPG) , Fear Free, Karen Pryor, Operation Catnip, The University and many more provided essential resources and training and connected me with a community of passionate professionals.

The Feline Community: Cat owners, rescuers, and advocates have been a constant source of inspiration and learning. This Impact in real-world insights and appreciation of the human-animal bond.
Feedback and experiences that guide my consulting and therapy approach.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.holarascaypica.com
• Instagram: @rasca.y.pica
• Facebook: @rypica
• Twitter: @rypica
• Youtube: @alerascaypica