|
 After
a lifetime of owning a
variety of pets - animals and birds - and enjoying activities with dogs
and horses in particular, the opportunity to establish a professional
service assisting people to create better relationships with their dogs
and resolve their dog's problems, has allowed me to connect my work, my
passion and my belief systems.
In
2006 I went to
England and trained with Jan Fennell
and her son, Tony Knight. Jan is known world-wide as the Dog Listener
and is the author of many best-selling books on the relationship
between dogs and people. Having successfully completed two courses with
Jan in the UK, I qualified as a Dog Listener, and hold an Advanced
Certificate in Canine Communication.
My
past experience with
dogs involved
conventional obedience training in three Australian States, including
running classes. I bred my current red and white Border Collies in the
1990s and plan to breed again. Over the years, I've experienced and
witnessed many dog behavioural problems. Some problems I was able to
resolve, however, it was the need to curb the persistent barking of one
of my current dogs that led me to Jan Fennell
and Amichien
Bonding
- within a short time my dog was a happy, relaxed and reformed
character. I was thrilled with the power of this practical but kind
methodology, based on natural processes. See
Case Studies.
A
few years ago I
specifically chose to live in
southern Tasmania having grown up and worked in the Australian mainland
states most of my life. Tasmania offers a wonderful clean and
stress-free environment, second to none. It particularly has wonderful
environs to own, raise and exercise dogs and I have found Tassie
dog-owners to be some of the most dedicated I have met in the world.
See
Love
this Place
for photos and more information about living in Tassie.
I
started working as a
Dog Listener in 2006 and
have now been consulted by owners and carers with a wide variety of
dogs with many different issues needing resolution. My background from
other work roles, particularly as a trainer in human resources, has
assisted me with being able to explain Dog Listening
and
Amichien
Bonding
easily and effectively to a wide range of clients. See client Feedback.
I
receive referrals from
Vets, breeders, dog
clubs, shelters and past and current clients. I regularly run
Puppy Classes
in conjunction with a local Vet practice, and I
give talks to interested groups such as Vet practices, dog clubs,
shelters and other pet businesses. See Help.
|
Ted
is one of my 12 year old red and white border
collies. Up until two years ago, despite being well trained and
obedient, he was very ‘overprotective’ of me
–
regularly barking, growling or snapping at some passers-by and other
dogs. I never felt completely relaxed, walking him at our local dog
beach or at strangers, especially with children, approached us when we
were sitting at an outdoor café...
I was amazed at how
our 2 dogs responded to Merry - so
different to any other visitor - so much better. Through this method we
have seen improvements with our dogs' behaviour which has had such a
positive/calming impact on the whole family. I would strongly recommend
to any dog owner to learn and understand your approach...