About Us

---

As a canine behaviourist with over 14 years of experience in the field, I understand your concerns. However, I am not as young as I may appear. I have inherited the ‘vampire gene’ in the form of ADHD and ASD (Asperger’s). Fortunately, I am fortunate enough to own a multipurpose assistance dog that I have trained to a high standard to assist me with my daily life, which I would otherwise struggle with. This includes large gatherings and shopping.

Additionally, I am trained as a therapy dog for schools, as I am fond of children and enjoy caring for people.

We will never forget Shadow, my first dog who was my ESA and the inspiration that began my journey. His legacy, along with his antics, will always live on. I am eternally grateful for everything he taught me.

In addition to my assistance dog, I also own two horses, which also require a significant amount of my time. Both of these horses are trained by myself.

Initially, I employed positive reinforcement and followed the university’s guidelines and ethos, as I was instructed. However, after twelve years, I discovered that this approach is not universally effective. I was subsequently reported to the board of education, which stripped me of my title due to my breach of their rules. They were no longer willing to associate themselves with me or my business. Consequently, the four years I spent at university amounted to a costly piece of paper.

While we did have some practical training, it was conducted with trained dogs from kennels, unlike the real-world experience that I gained when I left the university. This real-world experience ultimately led me to change my training methods when I transitioned from part-time to full-time employment with my business five years ago. This change allowed me to assist a greater number of dogs than I had previously.

After transitioning to balanced training, I have personally saved numerous dogs from euthanasia. Previously, I held the misconception that if I could not provide positive reinforcement, a dog’s future was bleak, and euthanasia was the most humane option for both the dog and its owner. However, I did not advocate for euthanasia; instead, I informed clients that I could not assist them with their dogs. Fortunately, these clients sought help from balanced trainers, who achieved remarkable results.

Balanced training methods encompass all four quadrants of training. Positive reinforcement is a fundamental aspect of balanced training, as it serves as the foundation for conditioning dogs to other methods and tools. This approach prevents us from abusing the tools we have at hand, as each tool can become problematic when used improperly. Unfortunately, there are questionable trainers on the internet who misuse tools and tarnish the reputation of responsible trainers.

Even if a dog has received positive training from a previous trainer, I commence with this method to identify any potential gaps in their training. If this approach proves effective, we continue it. However, if there are no noticeable changes during the initial session, along with the week of homework provided to the client, we will adjust the training methods for the next session. This approach is based on my belief that clients should not be financially burdened with years of ineffective training. They can potentially learn essential skills and resolve issues within a shorter timeframe, typically six to eight weeks, depending on the condition (anxiety may require longer, but I provide clients with ongoing support).

Personally, I would not pay a trainer or behaviourist for a year to address my dog’s reactivity or aggression. Similarly, I would not pay someone for six months to teach my dog recall or a loose leash walk. Therefore, I do not perceive a need for individuals to pay me for such extended periods.

The adage “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results” underscores the importance of adaptability in training. Each species requires tailored approaches, and it is not feasible to apply universal training methods. While positive reinforcement is effective in certain situations, such as reducing stress for veterinary check-ups, as some argue, it is not universally applicable. For instance, I have not witnessed a veterinarian entering a tiger’s enclosure with a piece of meat to take blood samples while instructing the tiger to remain still. Therefore, positive reinforcement has its place in the training world, but it should not be applied indiscriminately.

However, when purely positive reinforcement proves ineffective, and dogs are succumbing to kennel deaths due to the inability to be safely placed in homes, this becomes a pressing concern. Additionally, there are instances where dogs are adopted out with less severe behavioural issues, but there are rules prohibiting the use of only positive reinforcement, or the rescues take the dog back from the new owner, resulting in its return to the rescue and exacerbating the problem of overrun rescues and euthanasia. (I have personally encountered clients who faced similar challenges when the rescue refused to permit the use of aversives and they were unable to secure a safe pet sitter, even after months of introductions, which had become a safety concern, necessitating my involvement when they were away.)

My primary objective is to ensure that dogs live fulfilling and extended lives in suitable homes. This entails assisting clients in finding new homes, conducting risk assessments for private kennels that will re-home dogs from clients’ homes due to unforeseen circumstances, and assessing the suitability of dogs for therapy or assistance roles. Furthermore, I provide guidance to elderly clients in selecting the appropriate dog breed for their new family. In essence, my role extends beyond training; it encompasses supporting the dogs’ best interests, and this holistic approach ultimately benefits both the dogs and their owners.