– Founder of Charlie’s Wags of Wisdom

Certified Life Coach for Kids | Therapy Dog Handler | Author | Mom

Hi, I’m Silvia Mesa, a certified WISDOM Life Coach for Kids, Human-Animal Intervention Specialist, and proud founder of Charlie’s Wags of Wisdom. I’m also an animal lover, a mom of two wonderful young adults, a wife, and someone who deeply believes in the healing power of animals.

My journey into this work began years ago through volunteer visits with my therapy dogs, Charlie Brown and Lalique, to libraries and children’s hospitals. As a Certified Therapy Dog Handler and a member of the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, I’ve spent the last eight years watching magic unfold when kids interact with dogs. I saw children who were shy, withdrawn, or struggling emotionally suddenly come alive — smiling, opening up, feeling safe and seen. Charlie’s calm, accepting presence helped children let go of their worries and connect in ways that words alone couldn’t.

These moments touched my heart and inspired me to go further. I didn’t want to just visit — I wanted to equip kids with the tools to feel emotionally strong, confident, and resilient. So in January 2023, I became a Certified Life Coach for Kids through Adventures in Wisdom. I combined that knowledge with the unique connection therapy dogs provide, creating a program that empowers kids to discover their voice, build confidence, and manage life’s challenges in positive, creative ways.

I’m also the author of Walking with Prada, an award-winning book about our journey of healing and purpose through the eyes of a dog. It reflects my deep commitment to sharing the lessons animals can teach us — especially about unconditional love, trust, and inner strength.
At Charlie’s Wags of Wisdom, I bring together all these pieces: my coaching, my dog, my heart, and my belief that every child deserves to feel happy, safe, and capable of creating their own solutions — one paw print at a time.

Charlie Brown is a 10-year-old Golden Retriever with a heart as golden as his fur. Certified by the Alliance of Therapy Dogs since 2017, Charlie has brought love, comfort, and joy to hundreds of children across hospitals, libraries, and now through Charlie’s Wags of Wisdom — where he proudly works alongside his mom, Life Coach for Kids, Silvia Mesa.
Trained in obedience from an early age, Charlie completed four levels of training and earned his Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification. But beyond the certificates and titles, Charlie’s true gift lies in how he makes children feel — calm, safe, happy, and loved.

With his sweet, peaceful temperament and gentle eyes, Charlie instantly connects with kids who may be feeling nervous, shy, or overwhelmed. His silly side brings out giggles, his quiet presence brings comfort, and his patience creates the perfect space for healing and growth. Charlie never judges or interrupts — he simply listens, loves, and stays by their side.
Whether he’s lying next to a child during a breathing exercise or joining in a group gratitude circle with a wagging tail, Charlie plays a central role in helping kids open up emotionally, feel accepted, and build their inner strength.

• He’s bilingual — he enjoys stories and commands in both English and Spanish
• He LOVES performing tricks (especially if treats are involved!)
• He’s known for making kids laugh with his silly faces and floppy cuddles

His furry family includes his sister Lalique, a cat named Oliver, and a parrot named Nina!
Charlie isn’t just a therapy dog — he’s a trusted friend, a gentle teacher, and a warm-hearted partner in every child’s journey toward confidence and calm.