My journey into dog training started when I was in a completely different line of work. I was unfulfilled and wanted to find my true purpose. It wasn’t until I adopted my dog, Ona, that I knew what that purpose was.

I thought I knew dogs. I’d grown up with them, worked with them in rescues, and felt confident in my understanding—until Ona came into my life. An anxious and reactive rescue, who needed lots of support, understanding and confidence building which I wasn’t prepared for at the time and I felt like I was failing her.

I reached out to a local trainer but was left with more questions than answers. The advice I was given didn’t sit right with me. I also experienced shame and bullying from another trainer when she berated me in front of an entire class and forced me to demonstrate “leash pops” on another dog for a simple down exercise. I left that day knowing I’d never go back. I still struggle with the fact that I didn’t walk out immediately. Ona and I needed to feel safe and understood, we needed more than traditional training focused on control, not cooperation. Where training is done to dogs, not with dogs. Behaviours are suppressed with harsh corrections, aversive tools, and obedience behaviours and results are superficial. I saw a lot of stressed dogs “behaving” in order to avoid punishment.

I wanted to understand dogs, not control them. So I went searching.

I dove into online courses, training programs, and conversations with dog parents facing similar struggles which led me to understand the daily struggles many dog parents face. Over and over, I saw the same disconnect—dogs were communicating, but people weren’t being taught HOW to listen. I wanted to help, but I wasn’t qualified. So I got certified.

Trainers like the ones I experienced that are everywhere. And well meaning people trust them with their dogs—while their dogs lose trust in them. I knew there had to be a better way and I found it.

Through deeper understanding about canine welfare, I found a way to help Ona and, in the process, profoundly bonded with her. I focused on her strengths, like her love of nosework and problem solving, which transformed her into a confident and content dog. This experience inspired me to help other dog parents overcome reactivity challenges whilst building an unbreakable bond.

I sometimes wish I’d started this journey sooner. But being relatively new to the industry is a gift—I’m fresh, open, and not weighed down by outdated thinking. So much has changed in recent years. Game-changing research is reshaping what we know about dogs every day, and I keep learning, investing time and money into ongoing education. I’m part of incredible communities of ethical trainers and mentors, all working together to create a better future for dogs and the people who love them—free from pain and anxiety.

There are many trainers making a living from unethical practices. I’m here for those who’ve been through it—or who want to avoid it. These methods aren’t just harmful to dogs; once you truly understand behaviour, they’re traumatic for you, too.

I used to think I understood dogs. Now, I see how many feel trapped in situations and relationships that don’t serve them. I don’t want that for you or your dog.

Ona improved—not because we controlled her, but because we finally understood her. Her needs, her breed traits, her quirks, and the stress and anxiety driving her behaviour. Instead of punishing symptoms, we focused on alleviating them. We set her up for success.

We finally knew how to help her and we all felt at ease.

I want the same for you and your dog.