Since a very young age, I was known for asking lots of questions about anything to do with animals. Every animal’s behaviour fascinated me and I would try to find out everything from why birds sing, to important animal welfare issues. My desire to learn continued throughout my teenage years and I would spend as much time as possible walking dogs and helping at my local stables. This led to my first job as head groom at a small yard. I also gained as much experience as possible in both veterinary practices and on local farms.
There was little question about the path I wanted to take and in 2005 I graduated from Liverpool University with a BSc (Hons) in Animal Behaviour. Throughout my time at University I managed to get a placement at Chester Zoo, which led onto a role as a seasonal presenter, and a placement working for the world-renowned veterinary behaviourist, Sarah Heath. This is the placement that changed my life and fuelled my passion for companion animal behaviour.
After the placement I was given the opportunity to join Sarah Heath’s team, and I continued my professional development by completing a Post Graduate Diploma in Companion Animal Behaviour Counselling at the University of Southampton. I was then promoted to head rehabilitation trainer, where I managed a team of rehabilitation trainers and conducted initial and follow-up consultations for dogs with behavioural disorders. Throughout the next 8 years with Sarah I gained a considerable amount of experience, both within my role, and through extensive training. I was also privileged to spend time with some of the world’s most knowledgeable and respected Clinical Animal Behaviourists.
Since setting up my own behavioural referral business, I have been accepted as a full member of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (APBC) and recognised as a Clinical Animal Behaviourist by The Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC). This requires a rigorous selection procedure to ensure that candidates have achieved the highest proven academic and practical standards. I then furthered my accedemic achievements by gaining accreditation as a Certificated Clinical Animal Behaviourist (CCAB) with The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour (ASAB). This involved a theory (viva) and practical exam to assess my individual performance criteria and knowledge of the chosen species (dogs).
I am constantly striving to continue my professional development and have attended over 125 courses/seminars in the field of companion animal behaviour. This enables me to be at the forefront of new insights and developments, providing clients with the most up to date and comprehensive advice.
Click here for the full list of my Continued Professional Development (courses/seminars) and client testimonials.
...And when I am not working, I am kept very busy with my two beautiful children, Alfie aged 10 and Phoebe-Lily aged 8, my Golden Retriever Bodhi, my two cats - Maverick & Goose, and my hamster, Mr Marshmellow.
