Inspiring Conversations with Maria Vazquez of Pawsitive Strides AZ

Today we’d like to introduce you to Maria Vazquez.

Hi Maria, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I have a background in sociology, human psychology, and now dog psychology. I was a successful sales rep for a very long time before I decided to dive in the world of fitness and cycling. With over 20 years of experience as a coach in different areas I decided it was time to guide dog owners through the process of restoring balance, building trust, and becoming calm, confident leaders for their dogs and in their lives.

I have been a very accomplished competitive ultra-cyclist known for her tenacity, resilience, perseverance, and ability to finish every race I started…I even once was a motivational speaker that people looked up to in moments of self doubt and feelings of defeat. But over time, I found myself living in a constant state of rush, always on the go, not being able to say no to anything or anyone, and without setting clear boundaries until I couldn’t recognize myself anymore. Everything around me reflected the internal chaos I hadn’t stopped to face. Somewhere along the way, I got completely lost, got into a ‘fight or flight’ mode that depleted all of my energy sources, didn’t recognize myself anymore and worst I stopped leading not only myself and those around me but also all of my dogs (I have 6…so you can only imagine).

At some point I decided I needed to heal and allow my body to come out of ‘fight or flight’ mode. I had survived some of the most grueling cycling races out in the ultra-distance category so was determined not only to help myself but to help others do the same.

Pawsitive Strides AZ was born when I finally realized that something needed to change. I figured I didn’t need to constantly thrive for ‘perfection’ and just needed to return to calm and find my balance again. I realized that if I wanted my pack to be balanced I needed to regain my own balance first as animals will not follow unbalanced humans.

We don’t add more anxiety and create more confusion by going straight into strict obedience training. We also do not tackle the symptoms but the root of the problem. Once we do we also help owners become relevant and find connection with their dog through dog psychology—so they can live a harmonious life together with their pack.

“Our Philosophy”

Adventure hikes are at the heart of Pawsitive Strides AZ. Purposeful movement in the outdoors allows dogs to release energy, build confidence, and regulate their nervous systems in a way structured obedience alone cannot. These experiences create space for dogs—and humans—to reset, reconnect, and return to balance together..

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Hasn’t been super smooth. Took a chance and quit my jobs to have all the time to build the business as thought it would pick up faster but it did not. I am a one woman operation and do everything by myself…everything! So it’s been busy and up hill. The greatest thing is that no matter how hard it is been I always have a smile on my face….which leads me to believe I am on the right path!!

We’ve been impressed with Pawsitive Strides AZ, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At Pawsitive Strides AZ, we don’t just work with dogs—we support the humans on the other end of the leash. Because when owners feel grounded, their dogs can follow with ease. Our main focus are adventure hikes…fulfillment for dogs so owners can get a break and start seeing the possibilities with their dogs’ behavior. It is more than exercise, these structured hikes provide purposeful movement, mental engagement, and nervous system regulation in nature. Dogs build confidence, releases pent-up energy, and returns home calmer, more fulfilled, and better able to settle. My boarding dogs benefit from a tremendous concierge service as I limit my spots with intention. I also offer board and train and now a new service of day training.

What makes you happy?
Besides my sons, cycling and nature…witnessing the transformation in dogs and their owners when they witness the possibilities.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.pawsitivestridesaz.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pawsitivestridesaz/