About the Doggy Lady
My passion in life is helping people train and communicate with their pet dogs.and to make training FUN!.
I have been training dogs since 2000, including 14 years as a professional detector dog handler. My interest in dog training started with my first rescue dog “Flute”, a young German Shepherd x Labrador who introduced me to just about every training issue under the sun. With all the right intentions, I headed off to the local obedience school and, at my very first lesson, landed flat on my face – literally! So I do understand what it feels like to lack control at the paws of a delightful, but slightly crazy, dog!
Since then, I have studied the science of dog training - gaining knowledge, experience and qualifications from some of the best trainers in the world, and also some very wise dogs!
I regularly update these techniques and skills by attending conferences and seminars both in Australia and internationally. This has included (but not limited to!): Ken Ramirez (USA), Dr Rob Hewings (UK), Joey Iverson (USA), Chirag Patel (UK), Nando Brown (Spain), Kay Laurence (UK), Sam Turner (Netherlands), Steve Mann (UK), Steve White (USA), Susan Friedman (USA), Rise VanFleet (USA), John McGuigan (Scotland) and Claudia Pereira Estanislau (Portugal).
In 2016 I also undertook courses and a stringent assessment with the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT), an internationally recognised dog training body. To pass this assessment trainers must reach a high standard of training in both people AND dogs, plus possess a very strong knowledge of the principles of dog training. I am pleased to advise that I passed this assessment and gained a Level 3 Certificate in Principles of Dog Training and Behaviour. Furthermore, I was also offered full membership to the IMDT. Members of the IMDT must also maintain and update their skills, undertaking re-assessment every two years to maintain their membership. This affiliation also provides my clients with the assurance that I abide with a strict code of ethics.
Since 2019 I have been an instructor and assessor with the IMDT, teaching and mentoring the next generation of dog trainers. I am also a Trainer and Asessor for the Certificate IV in Animal Training and Behaviour with Applied Vocational Training.
Both my one-on-one consultations and classes provide a non-judgemental and supportive environment for you and your dog to learn in and the content is always tailored to your individual needs.
Since 2020, I have also been joined by some amazing qualified and IMDT accredited trainers. Please be assured these trainers meet a very high standard and have some amazing specialisation areas.
Stephanie Bryson (who has too many qualifications to list) is an amazing human coach who loves working with rescue dogs (bonus points if they are bull terriers), teaching dogs to enjoy handling and vet visits, and is very sought after for her coaching of humans whose dogs have big feelings about the world (and like to shout about them).
Alison Healey is our quirky herding breed specialist. She has walked the walk herself with her quirky border collie Jinks - who she has helped with shadow chasing and other OCD like behaviours. He now competes in many dog sports and likes to win lots of pretty ribbons - but most importantly - he lives a happy and content life. Alison also has amazing puppy training skills and LOVES to teach tricks!
Heather Lindsay has an extensive background working with rescue dogs - so if you need help settling your new rescue dog into your home, she is your trainer!
Kelby Faulds loves all things puppy, and can help set you and your puppy up for success. Kelby is a very caring and kind trainer who understands how it feels to be a bit overwhelmed by your dog, she can really help give you confidence walking your strong dog too!
Kelby, Steph, Alison and Heather are also SCENTWORK CRAZY.
Most importantly, they are all amazing trainers who will treat you and your dog with respect - and ensure training is both fun AND effective.
