Pause 4 - Why you can trust 4 Peaceful Paws
If leaving your spaniel home alone fills your heart with dread, or you are feeling trapped in your own home, you’re in the right place.
Today on Pause 4, I’m sharing why you can trust me to help.
1. I’ve shared my life with dogs for over twenty years.
For sixteen years our two Border Collies, Shadow & Spice, were the centre of my universe.
Spice suffered with anxiety, which was a challenging condition for the whole family. But, as they say, everything happens for a reason.
This period of my life gave me deep insight into fear, dog communication and the realities of day to day life with a fearful dog.
Spice's legacy burns brightly
I honour her memory by sharing not only the lesson she taught me, but also how it felt for me, and the isolation that results from living with a fearful dog.
Min, my first Spaniel, joined our family in 2020 - I was immediately hooked by these little dogs with such big feelings.
Kobi joined us a year later, bringing with him so many life lessons which I will share across the Pause 4 series.
Indie, our sweet, water loving cocker x lab, joined us in 2023.
These three spaniels light up my life, showing unconditional love, endless enthusiasm and a mad passion for hedges!!
They make me smile everyday.
2. I love to learn, I’ve spent six years engrossed in learning from world‑class mentors
While having a passion for dogs is a good start, a passion for people, teaching and science is also essential for the best outcomes in dog training.
I caught the dog training bug in 2020 when I was preparing for the arrival of Miss Min. As my first puppy in a long time I wanted to get it right, and since then I’ve been addicted to learning.
I’ve now trained under some of the most respected names in the dog world including:
Victoria Stilwell
A world-renowned dog trainer and behaviour expert.
She is best known as the star of the international megahit series It's Me or the Dog (which yes, I love!).
Jean Donaldson
A world class trainer and founder of The Academy for Dog Trainers.
The Academy is widely regarded as the best school in the world for those wishing to become certified, professional dog trainers and for good reason!
I often find Jean’s words of wisdom echoing in my mind.
Julie Naismith
A talented dog separation anxiety expert who’s helped 100,000+ guardians so far!
Her story began with her own dog, Percy, and she has since chosen to specialise in Separation Anxiety and helps not only people, but also shares her extensive knowledge with trainers.
I am also interested in how pain and discomfort influence behaviour. This knowledge is useful when dogs appear to get stuck in training.
I have a deep love of learning and my education in every area of dog training and wellness is always evolving.
3. I have practical dog training experience!
I've worked with clients on a 1:1 basis and I also have the pleasure of assisting the brilliant team at South West Dog Skills.
This means I've worked with a range of dogs and guardians gaining experience in everything from puppies to seniors and all the souls in between!
I continue to assist at workshops and online courses and continue to amuse Matt by always having a spaniel on my shoulder during online sessions!!
4. I’ve coached people for two decades — from horses and dogs to humans.
Before changing careers, I spent 20 years working in tax and accountancy which satisfied the logical, methodical part of my brain, but neglected the passionate part!
I learnt essential skills in that job, including translating complex information into something that actually makes sense.
This is so important in dog training, no one wants to spend hours deciphering complicated advice.
My training in counselling also ensures you always feel heard and supported.
I don't want anyone to feel alone in an anxious world, so I’m here ready to walk alongside you on your pathway to peace.
Every trainer has to start somewhere. Experience isn’t just about years in business.
It’s also about the years of learning, the hours of listening, and every moment of living alongside dogs.
4 Peaceful Paws is a new company, but I’m not new to the skills needed to provide successful separation anxiety training.
If you’re looking for a trainer to help you and your spaniel overcome separation anxiety get in touch today!
