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Meet Our Team
At Ruff Life, we're proud of the people who make up our team! Each team member brings their own experience, strengths, and personality, but we all share the same commitment to providing individualized care and training for every dog. Our team is carefully trained and supported to uphold Ruff Life's core values of kindness, adaptability, and teamwork. We take the responsibility of caring for your pup seriously, but we also believe in having fun, building relationships, and celebrating the little wins along the way. When you trust us with your dog, you can feel confident they're in capable and caring hands with people who genuinely love what they do!
Joey
Professional Trainer
Joey, of Active Dogs of Asheville LLC, is a dedicated trainer who has been developing his skills under Tessa’s mentorship since the summer of 2025.
With a background in veterinary and shelter medicine, he brings a calm, thoughtful, and dog-first approach to his work. Joey specializes in private training and immersive board-and-train programs, helping dogs (and their people!) build clearer communication and stronger relationships.
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Tian
Assistant Trainer
Tian has called Asheville home for most of her life and is a soon-to-be UNCA graduate. She started training dogs at 10, got her first sport dog at 14, and has since gained hands-on experience through doggie daycare and apprenticeships. Tian has a natural ability to recognize how each dog learns, figure out what motivates them, and adjust her approach to teach new skills clearly and efficiently. Outside of work, she spends time with her three dogs, Luna, Cedric, and Minnie, and enjoys dog sport photography.
Carol
Assistant Trainer
Carol is a Western Carolina University graduate and NC native. Her interest in dog behavior grew while working at a doggie daycare, where she had opportunities to work with puppies and dogs needing additional behavioral support. They are a quick learner who is passionate about expanding their skill set and providing high-quality training and care. Outside of Ruff Life, Carol spends time with her dog, Luna, and cats, Hattie and Sushi, and enjoys the outdoors and arts and crafts. They are also the artist behind the beautiful mural in our training room!
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Emma
Assistant Trainer
Bio coming soon :)
Erica
Business & Operations Manager
Erica joined Tessa in managing Ruff Life's operations after the birth of their son, Enzo. Before joining the team, she spent 13 years working as a behavior therapist, behavior analyst, and clinic director supporting autistic children and their families. She holds a Master's degree in Behavior Analysis and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, bringing a unique perspective on learning, behavior, and team development to Ruff Life. Erica is a nerd at heart and loves learning about behavior science and how it applies to everything from dog training and business management to working with horses! Outside of Ruff Life, she spends her time with Tessa and Enzo, her horse, Nova, and their three dogs.
