There's more to walking groups of dogs safely and responsibly than you may think - it takes a huge comittment to ongoing education, and a fair dose of common sense

          

All dogs require physical exercise and company, but they also desperately need creative mental stimulation to keep them happy and spirited. My service not only provides a half-day out in beautiful, peaceful surroundings, it also gives your dog an opportunity to be a dog! After having a lovely sniff around and a good walk through the woods and meadows, we'll play games, do a little obedience training (recall, sits, stays, downs etc.), perhaps a little trick training or a run through the agility course. I only work with small groups of five or fewer, and dogs are kept under close control. I don't allow my dogs to bully each other or to be bullied - good canine etiquette is encouraged and reinforced. I avoid mixing with unfamiliar dogs or allowing members of my group to approach the public. Some people, especially small children and older people, can find dogs, particularly in groups, intimidating. We do our best to respect other park users and not take up all the oxygen. My goal is to build a bond with your dog based on trust, kindness, security and, very importantly, fun!

I'm a supporting member of the PDTI (Pet Dog Training Instructors) and continuously working towards accreditation as a member of the Kennel Club's Instructors Scheme. I have been assisting with group classes and instructing dog owners with Alpha Dog Training Club in Finsbury Park for several years (Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizenship Scheme).  I teach puppy socialisation classes, alternating between the  Clerkenwell Animal Hospital, Canonbury and PetVet  surgeries and the Royal Veterinary College. I am Canine First Aid qualified (Sparsholt College) and have attended many canine activity and behaviour workshops including agility, scentwork and  heelwork to music. I recently participated in seminars with Roz Davis (Galen Myotherapist), Teacher's Training with Kay Laurence (renowned clicker trainer) and Behaviour Adjustment Therapy with Grisha Stewart. I have 25 years dog ownership and fostering experience, and have worked as a volunteer with various organisations such as the Canadian Humane Society, The Blue Cross and the Cinnamon Trust. I am fully insured for all of my services - also police-checked. Excellent references are always available.