I began instructing at Little Orchard in 2005. I really enjoy meeting new puppies, dogs and their owners and teaching at training lessons sharing knowledge I have gained through my own dogs, various courses and working with Sarah. It’s rewarding to see relationships and understandings develop and watch progression through the courses.
In 2007 I qualified as an examiner for the Kennel Club bronze and silver Good Citizens’ dog training scheme and I became a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers in 2008 (membership 01019).
In March 2009 I completed my CAP level 1 gaining a Distinction and a Merit in level 2. In 2009 I also completed an Agility Instructor’s course. I continue to attend workshops and seminars.
Charlie is my Westie who I rescued in 2003. He had numerous homes before mine and was only a year old. I enrolled him on bronze training with Sarah and we slowly learnt together, building up a strong trust and bond. In 2005 we passed our gold K.C Good Citizen award. This was brilliant, considering that when we first enrolled onto bronze Charlie didn't know anything, including sit. He would often cower under the chair scared to come out. We have since progressed to Heelwork to music and were part of the Little Orchard Demonstration Team and enjoyed entering obedience shows. Charlie has now retired from the competing life due to health reasons.
In July 2005, Pimms arrived she is a Jack Russell. As I had never owned a puppy before this was a different challenge! We enrolled onto training and have achieved bronze and silver K.C Good Citizen awards, we have also enjoyed heelwork to music and further obedience. Pimms enjoys attending Social club where she is a tutor dog helping to teach other dogs canine etiquette.
In May 2008 I decided to rescue Sonny, a golden retriever (Ru’s brother). He had an awful start to life but has progressed brilliantly over the last few years, He can put his paws to most things enjoying agility and obedience. This year we have competed successfully in both, winning out of pre-beginners and beginners in obedience within our first four shows and achieving clear rounds at steeplechase in agility. We are now learning the ropes together of the higher obedience classes and enjoying agility competitions when time allows.
