First and foremost, I love all animals having grown up on our family farm in East Devon. I’ve always had a deep connection with animals, and dogs have been a part of my life since then.
After a longer than planned (27 years!) career in professional services where I gained invaluable skills and experience in customer relationships and providing technical services, I decided to dip my toe in the dog training world back in 2017 as a hobby, and from that moment onwards I was hooked.
I’m an Assessed and Qualified member of the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT) including the Level 5 Behaviour qualification (IMDTB) having passed the stringent practical and theoretical assessments. I have studied multiple aspects of behaviour including Separation Related Behaviours, Dog to Dog/Human Reactivity, Anxiety and Resource Guarding. The dog behaviour and training world is developing all the time as new scientific studies help us better understand these amazing creatures - that's why I undertake regular continuing education to keep myself at the forefront of modern thinking using only ethical methods. Alongside studying, I’ve run puppy training classes and have worked on a 1-2-1 basis with owners and their dogs who have specific training and behavioural needs. I am DBS checked.
My initial trigger for my interest in dog training came in 2012 when I had a reactive dog, and I experienced how stressful an everyday walk could be and how I felt judged by other dog guardians. At the time I wasn’t in a position to give up my ‘day job’. Then in 2017 I adopted a 6-month old rescue Vizsla (Rags) who was found as a stray in Hungary. He had received little formal training and had no recall so I was constantly apologising to other dog guardians and walkers who were greeted by a highly enthusiastic and bouncy puppy. Inspired by a qualified trainer, I decided that I wanted to be able to help Rags myself … and the rest is history! Our bond has grown exponentially since then through ethical and positive-based training and mental enrichment.
Myself, my husband Simon, and Rags relocated back home to Sidmouth in Devon in 2020 to be closer to family and I was finally able to set up my own business to help other dog guardians enjoy that special bond with their dogs.
For full details of my qualifications, please Click Here
I only use positive and force-free behaviour support and training which is scientifically based, and kind to your dog. I want you and your dog to enjoy learning together and strengthen your connection.
I recognise that each dog is an individual and therefore needs a tailored approach that will suit and benefit them. I take the time to understand each dog, their history and their current situation before deciding on the most beneficial approach for them and their family.
I tailor my approach to make sure it is also achievable for you and your lifestyle, and that you understand what to do, how to do it and importantly why you are doing it. You can rest assured that my services are entirely confidential.
My approach is founded on these key attributes:
1. Patience
2. Consistency
3. Understanding
4. Kindness
5. Putting yourself in your dog’s shoes
6. A holistic approach – emotional, mental and physical
7. Helping your dog to succeed
8. Safety, health and happiness for you and your dog
9. Continual education with the most ethical training providers in our industry
If you are looking for a ‘quick fix’ then this isn’t the right place for you.
If you want a long-term solution to an issue that is preventing you from having a happy relationship with your dog then I can help. I’m here to help you – no judgement, no jargon … just understanding and practical advice.
