Meet the Team
The people behind Ruff Start Training Co.
Gypsea Rockenbach
Founder & Behavior Consultant
For the dogs who need more than basic manners.
Aggression, reactivity, anxiety: these are the cases Gypsea specializes in. She's a certified professional dog trainer and certified behavior consultant, and she builds an individualized plan around you and your dog, grounded in ethical, accountable training.
She also serves as Director of Canine Behavior & Welfare for Legacy of Love 805, providing behavioral assessments, rehabilitation and training support for rescue dogs with complex behavioral needs. Her goal is simple: a stronger relationship between you and your dog.
Specialties
Credentials
- 🏅 CCPDT Certified Professional Dog Trainer
- 🏅 CCPDT Certified Behavior Consultant for Canines
- 🐕 AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator
- 🤝 NADOI member
- ❤️ Director of Canine Behavior & Welfare, Legacy of Love 805
CCPDT = Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. NADOI = National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors.
Why families trust Ruff Start
Alex Velasco
Lead Canine Trainer
Turning training into everyday reliability.
Alex takes a hands-on approach, building confidence, structure and reliable obedience skills tailored to your dog's individual temperament and needs.
His focus is consistency, clear communication and practical techniques that carry over into everyday life, so you and your dog can build trust and lasting improvements together.
Specialties
Training out in the real world
We work with all breeds, ages and behaviors, with puppy classes, one-on-one sessions and the AKC STAR Puppy program.
Ready to get off to a better start?
Call, text or email to schedule a consultation or ask about pricing.