We had the good fortune of connecting with Nicole Parayno and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nicole, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
When I was working various jobs, I would spend 8-10 hrs of my day working, come home tired, stressed, always waiting for the weekend/days off. When I had days off, I would relish in time with friends, rest, and relaxation,

Now that I’m self-employed, I work every single day, without a day off. I spend all my time working, building my business, and learning as I grow. Even if I come home tired, I am happier than I have ever been. I live for each day, doing what makes me happy, making my dreams a reality.

To me, there is a balance in that. I work, work work, but doing so gives me the freedom to use my time in ways that I find productive.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Well, the first thing that crosses my mind when I think of what sets me apart from other dog trainers is that I’m allergic to dogs.

Yes. I’m a dog trainer who is allergic to dogs.

It wasn’t easy getting to where I am today. I originally wanted to be a veterinarian when I was young. As a kid, that’s what I always wanted to be. When I graduated high school, people told me I couldn’t be a vet tech or work with animals and laughed at me. I was young and not very secure, so I told myself what they told me, “I can’t do it.”

I grew up with dogs in the home and always loved to interact with them and train them. I eventually got my own first dog, Lily, and she’s really the inspiration in taking training seriously.

I’ve learned plenty of lessons along the way. I learn from other people’s mistakes, I learn from other people’s successes, and I learn from my own self.. Elmer has helped give me constructive criticism when I needed it so that I can do and be better.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Okay, I have to be honest, I literally know nothing about anything in California. We came out here in the middle of the pandemic, so with everything closed during that time, I didn’t go out exploring or going on adventures. I also don’t have any of my own friends out here, so there’s no one to even tell ME where to go!

If I had to give any suggestions at all, I would say go to the beaches and don’t forget to visit Anaheim Packing District.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I wouldn’t be where I am today without Elmer Abapo.

I’ve been blessed enough to witness Elmer’s growth and be a part of his journey as a musician, and he inspires me to continue doing what I do. He is my rock.

Despite everything that I’ve gone through, he has always been there for me, to listen, to talk, and to just let me cry. He believes in me in ways that no one else will. He supports me, encourages me, and he’s always celebrating my little victories with me.

Elmer gave me courage when I was scared and guidance when I was lost, and if he wasn’t there for me in those critical moments in my life, I wouldn’t be the person that I am today.

So thank you, to my partner in everything, I love you.

Website: Pupscoutsdogtraining.com

Instagram: @Pupscoutsdogtraining

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-parayno-138560177/

Twitter: @PupscoutsLV

Facebook: Facebook.com/Pupscoutsdogtraining

Yelp: PupScouts Dog Training

Youtube: PupScouts Dog Training

Other: TikTok: @PupScoutsDogTraining

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