Lixy Pet | LickMitt®

Dr. Elena Marquez, DVM, DACVB

Veterinary Behaviorist & Animal Welfare Advisor

Dr. Marquez is a board-certified veterinary behaviorist with over 15 years of experience working with anxiety, fear-based behaviors, and stress responses in companion animals. She has consulted with shelters, veterinary clinics, and product innovators focused on non-invasive calming tools.

Advisory Focus:

• Stress reduction through natural behaviors
  
• Licking as a self-soothing mechanism
  
• Humane, positive-association care practices
  

“Licking is one of the most natural calming behaviors animals have. When used thoughtfully, it can help regulate stress and build trust rather than suppress behavior.”

Marcus Hill

Founder, Second Chance Animal Recovery

Marcus has spent over a decade rehabilitating rescue dogs and cats from high-stress environments. His work focuses on helping animals decompress, rebuild trust with humans, and transition successfully into permanent homes.

Advisory Focus:

• Rescue decompression & bonding
  
• Trust-building through gentle interaction
  
• Tools that reduce fear without force
  

“Connection comes before correction. Tools that invite calm interaction can change the entire trajectory of a rescue animal.”

Dr. Naomi Feldman

Certified Feline Grooming Specialist & Cat Behavior Consultant

Dr. Feldman specializes in low-stress grooming techniques for cats and has worked closely with veterinarians and pet parents to reduce grooming-related anxiety. She advocates for tools that mimic natural grooming sensations and encourage voluntary participation.

Advisory Focus:

• Gentle grooming for sensitive cats
  
• Reducing stress during care routines
  
• Positive touch and tactile stimulation
  

“Grooming should feel like care, not restraint. When animals choose to engage, everything changes.”