Talia is a born-and-bred Upper West Sider whose love for all animals was apparent as a young child. She loved to learn about and play with the animals in nature, yet her everlasting question was “WHEN CAN WE GET A DOG?” After eight long years, (that’s a long time for a kid!) her parents finally made her Hanukkah wish come true!

A graduate of Marymount Manhattan College with a Degree in Communications & Media Arts, Talia has always felt an innate bond with animals - rescuing two cats who are now living the good life and working as a Pet Caretaker at Riverside Bark. Talia and her own dog, Riley, a terrier-poodle mix, love to go on hiking trips together during the warmer months and on the occasional beach trip!

Talia previously worked as a nursery school teacher and loved working with the kids - but what she really missed were the furry kids! It's safe to say she is right at home at Amanda Gagnon Dog Training.