What areas do you cover?
I'm based at Swannanoa and regularly travel to Rangiora, Kaiapoi, Woodend, Oxford, Cust, Ohoka and greater Christchurch. If you're further out, get in touch anyway — I may still be able to come to you, or we can work together online.
How long is a session?
The first consultation is the longest, because I need to see your dog properly, talk to everyone in the household and build you a plan. Follow-up sessions are shorter and more focused. I'll confirm exact timings when we speak.
What does it cost?
Fees depend on what you need, how far I'm travelling and whether we're doing one-to-one work, a group class or an online consultation. Get in touch and I'll give you a straight answer for your situation before you commit to anything.
Do you guarantee results?
No, and I'd be wary of anyone who does. Your dog is a living animal, not a machine. What I can promise is that I'll work honestly toward your goals, give you a clear plan, and tell you plainly if I don't think I can help. The households who get the best results are the ones who practise consistently between sessions.
Do you use punishment, e-collars or dominance methods?
Never. No electric or shock collars, no prong collars, no alpha rolls, no intimidation. My method is built on calm, consistent, kind leadership — you set clear boundaries your dog can understand, and you apply them the same way every time.
My dog is aggressive. Will you still work with us?
Often yes, and it's some of the most worthwhile work I do. Please be completely honest about the history when you first make contact, including any bites, so I can plan the session safely for everyone. In some cases I'll ask you to see your vet first, since pain and medical issues are a common and overlooked cause of sudden aggression.
Does everyone in the house need to be there?
Ideally, yes — at least for the first consultation. A dog who gets a different answer from every person in the house has no way of learning the right one. Consistency across the whole household is usually where the real progress comes from.
Is my dog too old to train?
Almost certainly not. Older dogs often learn faster than puppies because they settle more easily and concentrate for longer. If your dog's behaviour has changed suddenly in later life, though, a vet check is a sensible first step.
What should I have ready for the first session?
Your dog's normal lead and collar or harness, some food they really like, any vet or previous training history, and everyone who lives with the dog. Don't tidy up or stage anything — I need to see how things genuinely are.
How do I pay?
Payment is arranged directly with me at or after your session — internet banking or cash. There's nothing to pay online and nothing to set up in advance.
