What led you to Positive Response?
I have always had a passion for working with young children and animals. After graduating high school, I pursued a profession as a teacher, and worked in the education industry for almost a decade. My work life was almost complete; however I still had this active passion for animals and felt that I could integrate two careers somehow. I began researching different roles within the animal industry and fell in love with the behavioural aspects of dog training. I met Dee in 2010 and she mentored me as I furthered my education through the Delta Training Program. I have since completed in house and external study for recognized qualifications and professional development within the industry.
I conduct Private Training consults where behavioural modification programs are developed to reflect the complex needs of dogs and their families and work closely with Veterinarians and Veterinary Behaviorists’ where required to ensure the best outcome for clients. My specialist services within the industry are reflected by my knowledge and experience in working with both children and animals. I assist breeders and new puppy families to incorporate and sustain habituation and training programs, where positive child-dog interactions are developed through appropriate activities and training. This creates harmonious living for all family members.
Further professional development has enabled me to train psychiatric service teams to Public Access Testing level, where handlers are able to experience the full physical and emotional benefits of having their dogs assist them in all aspects of their lives. I specifically enjoy helping children learn and grow with their Service Dogs and witnessing the rewards that they and their families reap. I have a strong development in mental health and a personal understanding of the needs of my service teams. This work is conducted under Guide Hearing and Assistance Dogs Act 2009.
My work is complex and ever-changing; I thrive on challenges and am fulfilled in my career. I continue to undergo constant professional development within my field to further my skills as a trainer.
Qualifications:
- Emotional Coaching Course Completion (2018)
- Behaviour Management Parenting Course – 1,2,3 Magic (2018)
- Certificate IV in Companion Animal Services (2015)
- Certificate IV in Children’s Services (2002)
- Senior First Aid and CPR (Kept Current)
- Animal First Aid (Dogs and Cats)
- Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety