Pack People: Adriana Barnes
The Dog Psychology Center Director and Dog Handler, Adriana Barnes, had a very unexpected start working with Cesar. Living in the same neighborhood at the time, Adriana would notice Daddy and Cesar taking their daily walks. Cesar noticed how petrified Adriana became as Daddy passed by, so he decided to work with Adriana one-on-one to help her overcome this fear—telling her all the while that “one day you will be working with me and dogs.” That day eventually came and Adriana has been at the DPC since. We recently sat down with Adriana to learn more about her time in and out of the DPC.
How did you get the job and what is your current role at the DPC?
Cesar and his business partner offered me this position. I am the Director and Dog Handler for Cesar Millan and Dog Psychology Center Inc.
What was your first impression of Cesar?
I thought he was a fun friend, wonderful dad and great neighbor, with a very special gift of working with dogs
What has been one thing you have learned since being there?
I learned that anybody can overcome something that has previously held them back all their life. I had to overcome my fear of dogs. We were at an event once and Cesar announce to the crowd that Daddy knew I was the one to lead The DPC, and that Daddy told Cesar with his energy that I could do it. It was a great honor to hear that from Cesar.
I have learned and witnessed firsthand how a dog’s life can change for the better. All that happens at the Dog Psychology Center is something unbelievable and truly a gift. This is what Cesar has in him and he has planted this gift at the Dog Psychology Center. I am so thankful to be in my shoes and be a part of these transformations.
What is your favorite thing about working at the DPC?
There are so many favorite things about the Center. I think I most enjoy the early morning, when I put the key in the gate and start a new day. It is a great feeling to start your day with the pack and other dogs that we may be rehabilitating. They know when we touch the handle of kennels that a new day is about to start. The end of the day is also another favorite moment because everyone is put back in their kennels, and they look at you with a thankful eyes and very calm energy that makes you feel like a great pack leader. But my most favorite thing would have to be when Cesar hangs out at the Center, enjoying the pack and planting new flowers. It Is also a great moment to learn from Cesar as he teaches you his gift.
Do you have a dog?
I was so proud to be the owner of Molly Barnes, who recently pass away. Molly changed not only my life, but helped to strengthen my marriage, my family and even made me a more understanding person. Molly was the first dog in my life. Cesar gave her to us. She was featured on the cover of Mastering Leadership: Sit and Stay the Cesar Way. Cesar also gifted us Blizzard, the Yellow Lab on a yellow Lab from the Mastering Leadership: Raising the Perfect Puppy cover. We are so blessed to be the proud owners of this great Lab.
When not at the office, what are you typically found doing?
I am always working on finding balance with my family life and my great job. But I love going to the beach with our dogs or dogs that may be visiting us at home. We never just have one dog; we always have friends’ dogs over. I volunteer with K9 Sheriff’s Department and give lessons at any Sheriff or Police station in the lower income areas of Los Angeles that may have an after school program. In this educational DVD, Cesar teaches the kids the basics of petting or approaching a dog. I talk to them and show them how they can to be somebody no matter their background. Most of these kids are in very low-income families from Mexico—just like myself when I was a child. At the end of every session, I pass out t-shirts and some get cry in joy because they have never been given a gift before. I thoroughly enjoy giving back to these kids and it is very important for me, even if for only that moment they feel like they can be or do anything they want. I do what I do for them.
What else would you like people to know about you or your work with Cesar and the DPC?
I would like people to know that I was completely and sincerely afraid of dogs and wanted nothing to do with them. But I walk by faith, and I believe that when a door in life opens—and it was an unexpected door—there has to be a reason why. When I gave resignation to my former employer, he thought I was crazy. I said I have no explanation of why I am doing this, but I have to do it. And boy and I so thankful that I did!
I would also like to acknowledge the Old Man, Daddy. I cared for him during his last months when he could not go to work and travel with Cesar. I took him to work every day and he had a special spot in his office that he shared with me. I would have to help him up and take him to use the bathroom, and I would always notice something about his eyes and the way he looked at me with and unconditional heart and soul. This Old Man was so wise. I learned so much from his eyes—no words, just his energy. I miss Daddy and Molly tremendously, but I know I will see them some day.
And lastly, do not let anything in life or the world hold you back from overcoming your fears. Have faith and you will overcome.
