About Me

I am based in the middle of the beautiful Ards peninsula in Northern Ireland around 15 miles from Belfast.

 

I have over 25 years experience of dog training, both classes and one to one work. I hold the Advanced Diploma in Canine Behaviour Management (with Distinction) and am a Member of the Professional Association of Applied Canine Trainers (PAACT: Membership No. 0011). PAACT was created to bring together the joint disciplines of Behavioural and Obedience Training. PAACT member believe that modern trainers require behavioural skills and behaviourists must be able to handle and train dogs. Being skilled in both disciplines allows me to train and treat your dog more effectively.

 

In my younger days I competed successfully with my dogs in various dog sports including competitive obedience, working trials and agility. But as time went on I became more and more interested in training. All my training is done only with positive, reward based methods and I have developed a particular love for clicker training. My aim is for everyone to enjoy, and have fun with, their dogs.

 

I have recently retired from my professional career (as a doctor) and have moved to Northern Ireland with my husband and family so Down Dog is actually my second career.

 

I am planning to apply for Kennel Club Accreditation as a trainer. I am also a Member of the Institute for Animal Care Education (IACE)