Pepe J. Hernandez, Ph.D., CPDT-KA
Founder & Owner of PJH Dog Training
Education
My academic career focused on the subjects of learning, memory, and behavior. It was a path I chose led by a strong and innate curiosity for the natural world. During my undergraduate years, at the University of Wisconsin - Madison, I started out on a pre-Vet track, fully expecting to devote my life to animals in a veterinary practice. Yet, life had other plans; I found myself drawn to biochemistry and cancer research but also to animal behavior and psychology. Thus, my BS in biochemistry laid the foundation for what would become an exploration of the intricacies in which brain function and behavior intertwine.
It was the brain's enigmatic abilities that truly captivated me, steering me towards a Ph.D. in behavioral neuroscience, which I also received from UW- Madison. My research dove deep into the mechanisms of how the brain encodes, retains, and retrieves memories especially those associated with positive reinforcement. The implications of my work touched on understanding the neurobiology behind drug addiction, providing a glimpse into how our brains can be influenced and conditioned—a subject that I would engage with throughout my career.
My postdoctoral work at the University of Pennsylvania further examined various memory types and how they are affected by aging, sleep, stress, psychiatric disorders, and the social environments we navigate. While I found fulfillment in this scholarly pursuit, there was a part of me eager to see how my insights into behavior could be applied in diverse scenarios.
Expanding My Horizons
This curiosity led me to the bustling streets of New York City, where I ventured into real estate and the exhilarating world of day trading. Both realms allowed me to apply my knowledge of behavior in dynamic ways—understanding the markets' ebbs and flows and helping people find homes that resonated with their lives and dreams.
Yet, my passion for animals remained undiminished. Upon volunteering with and joining the Wild Bird Fund as a staff member, I reconnected with animal care through wildlife rehabilitation. This was a unique role that allowed me to apply my skills and compassion in a hands-on manner to make a difference in the lives of wildlife right here in NYC.
Concurrently, I provide care part time for individuals with dementia, helping them to maneuver through the challenges of memory loss. I am also proud to be a Pet For Vets Volunteer, assessing, training, and placing shelter dogs with Vets in the NY area. This work has not only been deeply rewarding but has also offered a practical application of my academic research, enriching my understanding of the human condition while allowing me to make a difference in the lives of others.
But it is dog training that feels like coming home. Training combines my lifelong love for dogs with my expertise in behavior. It is the perfect marriage of my passions and a venture where I can facilitate stronger bonds between people and their canine companions. After completing a year long apprenticeship it was time to go it alone.
Every step of my path has been integral to shaping my philosophy on dog training and care. Founding PJH Dog Training was a milestone that synthesized my experiences, allowing me to use the scientific principles of neuroscience to enhance the lives of dogs and their owners. This journey has been one of continuous discovery, weaving together the threads of various disciplines to find fulfillment in the convergence of learning, memory, and behavior.
At PJH Dog Training, I am committed to a training ethos that prioritizes positive reinforcement, nurturing a climate filled with trust and happiness for pets and their owners. Training is more than teaching commands; it's about creating a dialogue between species, understanding each dog's individual needs, and empowering their humans with effective strategies for lifelong learning.
The success of PJH Dog Training is measured not only in the well-adjusted dogs and satisfied owners but also in the moments of pure joy that punctuate my days. The leaps of delight from the dogs, the wagging tails of accomplishment, and the smiles of their families are my greatest accolades. These tokens of gratitude fuel my passion and are a testament to the love and dedication I pour into every training session. As a trainer accredited by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, I look forward to continuing this rewarding journey.