Meet The Team
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Cat
Pretending to be in charge, Cat is the human behind Valley Dogs.
“It’s been a bit of a journey but I’m glad to be here bringing a genuine passion to make a better job of dog training to life with Valley Dogs, from a Military career to running an international award winning dog photography studio I fell into dog training during Covid and haven’t looked back. I’m here to help you make the best life with your dog a reality”
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Elvis
In many ways the reason behind it all, Elvis is a Border Terrier, born July 2020 he is the dog that teaches me how to be a better dog trainer on a daily basis. He’s a naturally excitable, high drive full on Terrier who lives life to the max. We’ve faced training, medical and behaviour challenges together and our tale is not yet over.
High prey drive, occasionally unpredictable and always looking to push the boundaries, he is also an incredibly loyal and loving wee guy who knows a good deal when it’s come his way. The best big brother to his sister and an absolute star to have around the house, he is my daily reminder to do a better job.
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Beattie
Sharing the same Dad as Elvis Beattie, also a full Border Terrier, born March 2022, is the dog that (usually) makes me look like a hero dog trainer. Naturally a calmer character then her brother and brought up with games based training she is my saviour on a tough day.
She loves a shoe, she’ll nick your bobble hat and steal a sock given the chance and she lives for food in all its forms. Don’t leave your dinner unattended around this wee lady! She’s an absolute love who’ll sleep under the covers with you given half the chance and like most Terriers when she works she gives 100% and more.
How I train and my ethics.
Training a dog, especially when behaviour problems are involved is almost always a compromise between the dogs needs and the humans needs. It is my goal to meet both to the highest standards I can so that both you and your dog can be the best versions of yourselves within the partnership.
I am always pushing for the best standards in
Welfare for the dog - there are many ways to teach the same things to dogs, I aim to find the best way that gives both the most understanding and kindness to the dog at the same time as being effective. Always considering every dog as an individual in an individual situation.
Effectiveness and timeliness - Training can take time and in many ways is a constantly evolving journey, it should nevertheless be an overall upward trend, training needs to work. I aim to provide solutions that are achievable in a reasonable timeframe to reduce long term stress to both the dog and humans. It’s also important that training is as enjoyable as possible, because both you and your dog will be more invested if it’s fun and rewarding!
Thinking holistically at the core - The overall picture of health, wellness, meeting of everyones needs, suitable management techniques as well as effective training and behaviour modification is one big picture that interlinks. Seeing that bigger picture and helping people navigate it successfully is the over riding drive in my approach at Valley Dogs.
I hold myself to these standards by
Living the way I teach with my own dogs. Meeting their needs and committing to improving their behaviour and welfare on a daily basis. Setting time aside every day to practice my own skills and improve theirs.
Keeping up to date with as much Continuous Professional Development as I can, in the form of theory learning, practical courses and mentorships that keep me both questioning and improving my own skills.
Referring on to other trainers and professionals where this is necessary or where I see other skillsets more suited to helping the people and dogs I am lucky enough to meet.
Testimonials
My Qualifications and CPD
I’m committed to my continued education and improvement as a trainer and undertake regular courses, workshops and CPD to make sure my knowledge and practices remain up to date and relevant.
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Training Qualifications
Absolute Dogs Pro Dog Trainer
Absolute Dogs Pro Dog Trainer Geek
Absolute Dogs Pro Dog Trainer Genius
(I no longer display the badges from these courses due to the activities of the company directors outside of training activities - I don’t want to support the brand. The learning from the courses is still with me though!)
Dog Training College Reactivity Specialist
Dog Training College Body Language Specialist
Dog Training College Scentwork Specialist
Predation Substitute Training Instructor
LEGS Family Dog Mediator
World Scent Dog Association Blue Level Instructor + Judge
Annual approval by Dog Training College to include interview and client testimonials to prove competency
Scentwork UK qualified Tier 1 Instructor
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Currently mentoring with Jo-Rosie Haffenden
In progress - School of Canine Science Behaviour Bible 3 year course
In progress - Click to Calm with Karen Pryor Academy
In person - Scentwork camp at Devon Dogs
In person - Film Days with Absolute Dogs
In person - PDT Development days with Devon Dogs
In person - Interactive Play workshop with Craig Ogilivie
In Person - Shaping workshop with Kamal Fernandez
In Person - Leash Handling skills with Grisha Stewart
In Person - Play Instructors Course with Craig Ogilvie
Online - Reactivity Group Consults with Behavet
Online - Role of Nutrition on the Behaviour of Dogs with Dr Conor Brady
Online - The Neuroscience of Frustration in Dogs with Daniel Shaw
Online - The Play Way with
Online - Fearful Fido with Dr Amber Batson
Online - Absolute Dogs badges to include Scent Work, Adolescence, Tricks, First Aid and Fitness
Online - Recallers with Susan Garett
Online - Social rehabilitation in Dogs with Roz Pooley