In Ange's own words...

• What made you decide to start working with me, and where were you at with your dog when we first began working together?

Came across a post on Facebook and liked the content and you had the professional qualifications and not just a certificate for attending a half day course 🤣, then after initial phone consultation I could tell that you really cared and wanted to help, you were empathetic and there was absolutely no judgement. We discussed their health and training history and the issues we have. you were completely honest on what you thought could be achieved and that there was no quick fix. There was no pressure to sign up, and no hard sales pitches, I was in two minds as I had already had a vetinary behaviourist before and was disappointed as they did an assessment and basically said I was doing everything right and then sent me a report on the theory but not much advise on how to practically overcome the problems or support after. I have spent thousands on training and was worried I would be wasting my time and money. I then signed up to the free 5 day walks challenge, and from that I saw progress. We had been stuck in avoiding and management mode for a number of years and things were not getting better, walks were stressful and not very enjoyable, their obedience is good but it’s their reactions that are the problem. Jimmy was extremely anxious and hyper vigilant especially outside, always on alert for anything that moved, cars,joggers,cyclists, also reactive to shadows and reflections, barking at the moon, stars, and planes/helicopters and reactive to dogs. Andy reactive to people, joggers,cyclists and dogs, unable to walk by anyone without a reaction.

• ⁠What were some of the biggest hurdles during the process?

I think the biggest hurdle for me was knowing the right distances to work at during training sessions and to not push them too far as I was thinking about what I wanted to achieve and not how the dogs were feeling, and is still something that I am working on.

• ⁠How did you find the support and guidance during the mentorship?

The guidance and support have been second to none, I sent so many videos of training sessions and was given feedback on all, explaining the body language of the dog as well as on my own actions, what I did well and what I could have done differently in the situations. The weekly zoom sessions were invaluable going over the theory and discussing practical solutions delving into the individual issues of each dog, the group bounced ideas off each other and we learnt from each others problems it felt really supportive and friendly, a group of like minded people wanting to do what’s best for their dogs. If something didn’t go to plan with the training I messaged Hels and we would go through it and try to resolve.

•  Have you seen any changes in your dog’s behaviour since working together?

Since working with Hels both dogs are a lot calmer in the house and less anxious generally, walks are a lot calmer and less stressful. Lead walking has come on leaps and bounds.

The distance that Jimmy reacts to cars has reduced, and he is now able to walk ‘normally’ past most other dogs but I am now able to read his body language better and recognise if he is struggling and then act accordingly to avert a reaction, the same goes for Andy re being able to read his body language and notice when he is uncomfortable. The reactions of both dogs seem to be less intense than before.

• ⁠What have you learned about your dog?

I didn’t realise how overwhelmed Andy was when there was a change in the environment ie someone walking towards us and the fear and frustration he felt, and the same with Jimmy, I was acutely aware but thought it was mainly because of their breed and herding instincts. I have learnt to let them see triggers  at an appropriate distance and let them process what they are seeing rather than immediately walking away or distracting them.

• What’s been your favourite part of working together?

I think my favourite part of working with Hels has been having her expert knowledge and support, nothing has been too much trouble, she is truly dedicated to the people and dogs she works with, the relationship between you and your dog will improve by using the methods and that in itself is priceless.

• ⁠What would you say to someone considering the mentorship but not quite sure if it’s the right time or investment?

I would say jump in with both feet and an open mind nothing changes if nothing changes!