Our Team
Elazar Wells
FOUNDER/CEO & LEAD TRAINER
Elazar Wells is the founder of Xylose Dog Rescue & Training, a behavior-focused rescue and training program dedicated to helping dogs with challenging backgrounds find stability, structure, and loving homes. With more than 14 years of hands-on experience working with dogs, Elazar specializes in canine behavior, rehabilitation, and advanced training for both family companions and high-drive working breeds.
His journey began with his first rescue dog, Xylose, a dog who had significant behavioral challenges. Before meeting Elazar, Xylose had been rehomed three different times because of his behavior. He struggled with fear and distrust toward men, women, and children, showed leash reactivity, and did not get along with other dogs. Many people believed he would never be able to live a stable life in a home environment.
Through patience, structure, training, and deep understanding of canine behavior, Elazar worked closely with Xylose to rebuild his confidence and help him learn how to navigate the world safely. Over time, Xylose transformed from a misunderstood dog into a loyal companion. That life-changing experience inspired Elazar to dedicate his life to helping other dogs who are often overlooked or considered “too difficult.”
This journey eventually led to the creation of Xylose Dog Rescue & Training, where the mission is simple:
Training Tails, Saving Lives, One Paw at a Time.
Elazar is currently studying animal behavior and animal science, continuing to expand his knowledge in canine psychology, training methodology, and animal welfare.
He shares his life with four dogs—Xylose, Pookie, Zoltar, and Zarbia—who are not only beloved companions but also part of the heart and story behind his work. In addition to his dogs, Elazar also cares for reptiles, including one bearded dragon and three leopard geckos, reflecting his lifelong passion for animals of all kinds.
Outside of rescue and training, Elazar enjoys traveling, hiking, volunteering, and spending time outdoors with his animals. Known for his kindness, patience, and thoughtful approach, he believes that with the right guidance, structure, and compassion, every animal deserves the chance to thrive.
JILLIAN WELLS
Jillian Wells serves as the Operations Manager and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Xylose Dog Rescue & Training, where she plays a vital role in overseeing operations, financial planning, and the continued growth of the organization. With a strong focus on leadership, organization, and strategic management, Jillian helps ensure that the rescue and training programs run efficiently while supporting the mission of helping dogs in need.
Jillian has a lifelong passion for animals and currently cares for a large and diverse group of them. She owns nine dogs, including three Border Collies, three Australian Shepherds, one Blue Heeler, one Dutch Shepherd, and one Belgian Malinois. In addition to her dogs, she also cares for three pigs, three horses, and four sheep. Jillian lives on a 1,000-acre property, where her animals have the space and environment to thrive.
Over the years, Jillian has been deeply involved in rescue and fostering, helping many shelter dogs find safe homes. Several of the dogs she originally fostered became permanent members of her family after she chose to adopt them herself.
In addition to her work with Xylose Dog Rescue & Training, Jillian is also the owner of four dog daycare facilities, one additional animal rescue organization, and two other businesses, demonstrating her strong dedication to both animal welfare and entrepreneurship.
Outside of her professional work, Jillian values spending time with her three children and family. She enjoys hiking, being outdoors, and relaxing at home watching movies together.
Jillian is currently continuing her education and is studying toward a PhD focused on business and animal-related fields, combining her passion for animals with advanced leadership and business knowledge.
Through her leadership, compassion, and dedication to animals, Jillian plays a key role in helping support the mission of Xylose Dog Rescue & Training — Training Tails, Saving Lives, One Paw at a Time.