Qualified & experienced, force-free dog trainer and behaviourist ๐พ
(8)
30/03/2024
You may have noticed weโve not been active recently - there have been some big changes at The Wantage Pet Company HQ!
Lollie recently entered a new job as an Animal Care Instructor at an FE College, which as you can imagine has taken up the majority of her time. This is a huge change but one which allows her to use her expert knowledge and inspire the next generations of pet care professionals to strive for the best ๐ซถ๐ป
Is this goodbye forever? Not at all! Weโre hoping as things settle down we will be able to run the odd class from time to time. For other pet care professionals, we highly recommend the following:
Pawfect Help
Rambles Pet Care
Oxfordshire Animal Behaviour and Training
Mel Taylor Dog Training
Oaks Canine Services
Canine Fitness Connection
HaylesTrails dog walking services
DW Dog Training and Pet Care
Throw Me a Bone - Dog Training & Behaviour
Thank you for all your support over the last few years. It has been an amazing journey getting to know you all and all the wonderful dogs weโve met along the way. ๐ซถ๐ป๐ถ๐ค
29/01/2024
โ ๏ธ MAINTENANCE โ ๏ธ
Our website is currently unavailable, please use our Facebook or email to get in touch ๐ซถ๐ป
25/12/2023
A very merry Christmas and happy new year from all of us at The Wantage Pet Company! ๐๐
15/11/2023
Still canโt get over meeting the amazing Dr Susan Friedman at the weekend! ๐คฉ
It was an absolute pleasure attending Dr. Friedmanโs Masterclass on How Behaviour Works - so many perspectives and insights into behaviour and learning that had made me reevaluate my practices to ensure I am delivering the most ethical and welfare focused methods possible.
We never stop learning and improving ๐ซถ๐ป
CPD is so essential and itโs an honour to be part of the forefront of ethical training standards. A huge thank you to the Dog Training College for hosting this outstanding event ๐
06/11/2023
โ ๏ธIMPORTANT UPDATE โ ๏ธ
Due to increased demand we will be running an ADOLESCENT PUPPY CLASS alongside our puppy training classes starting mid November.
Suitable for those between 6 - 12 months, let us help you navigate through the tricky adolescent stage.
๐ถ
01/11/2023
โญ๏ธ Calling new puppy owners! โญ๏ธ
We are excited to announce our new group puppy training classes will begin on Thursday 16th November! ๐ถ
Come along to learn essential life skills, appropriate socialisation, basic obedience and much more, all under the supervision of our experienced head trainer, Lollie.
โ Recall
โ Lead manners
โ Handler focus
โ Sit, stay, leave
โ Appropriate interactions and socialisation.. and much more!
Location: West Challow Village Hall, OX12 9TW
Time: 6:30pm
Duration: 50 minutes
Course length: 6 weeks
๐พ A training & behaviour slot has just opened up for Wednesday evenings. Send us a message to book in - it wonโt be available for long!๐พ
04/10/2023
Such a fantastic post from Pet Professional Network, highlighting the โhiddenโ costs of hiring a professional.
As the cost of living crisis continues, we have made a conscious decision to keep our prices fixed to ensure we are just as accessible as before for all who need our help ๐ซถ๐ป
Beyond anything, we pour our heat and soul into all our clients, big and small. Itโs our passion to help, and our care extends far beyond the physical time we spend with you ๐ค๐พ
When you hire a dog trainer it is MUCH more than an hour of their time...
This is so they can give you and your dog the very best ongoing support, with effective long term results.
So please take a moment to consider the following if you are looking to hire a professional.
And always do check their experience, their accreditations/courses they've completed, testimonials and ensure that the training they do puts the needs of the dog first, with no harsh or outdated methods.
Here at PPN we are committed to supporting kind and ethical pet professionals and offer a range of CPD to ensure ongoing learning and support.
This helps not only improve the industry and business standards but also offer a safe place for pet professionals to connect and support each other.
Pet Professional Network
'Together we are stronger'
29/09/2023
โ ๏ธ EMAIL DRAMA! โ ๏ธ
We have been having trouble with our email and receiving enquiries through our website. Many have only just come through from the past 8 WEEKS, and we are working on sorting this issue. ๐ฆ
Please accept our apologies for this. If you are waiting for a response or haven't heard back from us, please resend your email, and we will respond as soon as possible.
As a small business, this sort of thing has a significant impact on us, so thank you for your patience and understanding ๐ซถ
13/09/2023
It was so nice having Darcey and Willow back for a group walk ๐พ Three happy and tired out girls at the end of their session. Happy dogs = happy humans ๐ฅฐ
We still have some availability for our group walking sessions, get in touch to book!
05/09/2023
Is this the most glamorous photo in the world? No.
Is it most safe and sensible way to ensure Mia has been exercised safely and with the minimal risk of heatstroke? YES!
Walk in the early hours of the morning before the temperatures exceeded 20 degrees with Miss Mia: Complete!
๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ
This unseasonably hot weather has the ability to cause serious and even fatal damage to our canine companions. Please be sensible and think twice about taking them out in the hot weather. Remember: A dog has never died from missing a walk, but too many die from heat related issues.
Instead of your normal walk, why not tryโฆ
๐ Walking when the temperature is at its lowest, usually in the late/early hours of the day.
โ๏ธ Giving their food rations in a puzzle feeder or frozen in a bowl. This will keep them stimulated and will help cool them down.
๐ค Try basic training when you would usually walk; getting them using their brain in a way that will keep them stimulated without getting them too active and warm.
๐ซถ๐ป Give them space and understand that, just like us, they will have a reduced frustration tolerance while the weather is so hot.
04/09/2023
๐ฅ Itโs going to be a hot one! ๐
Take care this week as itโs forecast to be unseasonably hot!
All sessions this week are cancelled due to the extreme heat and the risk of heat related issues.
We've had some questions about the suitability of our group walks for dogs who may have behavioural challenges and wanted to share the differences between the two walking services we offer here at The Wantage Pet Company.
๐๐ซ๐๐ข๐ง๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ฐ๐๐ฅ๐ค๐ฌ are bespoke to your dog's needs and training goals, providing extra dedicated time to help achieve such goals. Training walks are delivered on a one-to-one basis (or with stooge dog, Mia, where appropriate and previously agreed), allowing all our focus to be on your dog and setting them up for success! The bespoke nature of this service means any dog can partake in training walks, regardless of the challenges they may be facing (reactivity, poor recall, lead pulling, etc.).๐ *๐๐๐๐ธ: ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ค๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐ข๐๐๐๐๐ก๐๐ฆ ๐๐๐๐ฆ ๐๐ฃ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐ข๐๐๐๐๐ก ๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐ก ๐ก๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐โ๐๐ฃ๐๐๐ข๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ก๐ *
๐๐ซ๐จ๐ฎ๐ฉ ๐ฐ๐๐ฅ๐ค๐ฌ are more relaxed, social activities for dogs who enjoy the company of other dogs and stretching their legs at the same time! As standard, basic training elements are included with this service, as we are firm believers in reinforcing good behaviours! Group walks are open to all, with no need to be a past or current client in order to sign up for this service. Due to the nature of group walking, we are only able to accept dog-friendly dogs into our group. ๐
๐ผ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐?
Don't panic! Send us a message, and we'll be glad to help you!
๐พ
11/08/2023
๐ฆฎ Group dog walking available from September ๐โ๐ฆบ
We are pleased to announce we will be offering small group walking sessions, starting in September!
โญ๏ธ
Each session provides a full hour activity time, pick up and drop off, all under the watchful eye of a canine first aid trained, behavioural specialist. During these sessions your dog will be able to socialise with up to four dogs in a safe and controlled manner, while reinforcing basic training (such as lead walking and recall).
๐พ
Spaces are limited so make sure you book in advance to secure a spot!
Lollie incredibly proud to share that she has received her final grade for her BSc(Hons) in Animal Behaviour and Welfare from Oxford Brookes University, achieving an outstanding ๐๐ข๐ซ๐ฌ๐ญ!
๐๐ป
This dedication and understanding is outstanding and something she is incredibly proud of. Her dissertation was titled โAnimate vs. Inanimate Enrichment: The Effects on Human-Dog Relationshipsโ and she would like to send her thanks once again to all those who took part in the research.
๐ฅฐ
Education and knowledge is something we hold with utmost importance, guiding our practise and understanding of canine behaviour and wellbeing.
๐
As a result, we will be closed entirely on Wednesday 6th September to attend this graduation ceremony.
โจ
๐
02/08/2023
Hi folks! ๐๐ป
Itโs been a while since we last posted, sorry about that. Weโve been busy ferreting away behind the scenes, making the services provided by The Wantage Pet Company as beneficial as possible to our wonderful clients; and working on continual professional development ๐ค
Weโre excited to share what weโve been working on with you allโฆ stay tuned for more updates soon! ๐
16/06/2023
Itโs another hot, hot, hot one today!
๐ฅต๐ฅ๐ฅต๐ฅ
Hot weatherโฆ
โฌ๏ธ Reduces frustration tolerance
โฌ๏ธ Increases irritability
๐ค Can cause behaviours to escalate more rapidly
What can we do to help our dogs?
โญ๏ธ Reduce expectations
โญ๏ธ Be mindful and understanding
โญ๏ธ Swap walks for low-impact enrichment
โญ๏ธ Provide plenty of water and shade
โญ๏ธ Give your dog PLENTY of opportunities to lick, sniff and chew (this will help relax them)
โญ๏ธ Consider feeding meals in a frozen KONG or similar
โก๏ธ If youโre struggling in this heat, your dog will be! โฌ ๏ธ
And rememberโฆ
๐ฅ NO DOG HAS EVER DIED FROM MISSING A WALK. TOO MANY HAVE DIED FROM HEATSTROKE ๐ฅ
โ๏ธ
โ๏ธโ๏ธโ๏ธโ๏ธโ๏ธโ๏ธ
Crikey! Itโs a scorcher!
โ๏ธโ๏ธโ๏ธโ๏ธโ๏ธโ๏ธ
As you are aware, the weather over the next week or so is going to be hot! Because of this, we are having to enforce an extreme weather policy to ensure we keep your dogs safe.
We will always have your dogs welfare as our top priority, which is why we WILL NOT be walking dogs during this extreme weather.
Please take care out there. And remember, no dog has ever died from missing a walk. Donโt risk it!
10/01/2023
โก๏ธWe need your help!
As part of my BSc(Hons) dissertation, I am looking for some participants for my research project, looking into dog training and human-dog relationships.
Participants will have to be able to make it to Abingdon and Witney Common Leys campus to take part in a group training session.
If you would like to participate in this research, please complete the survey below or follow the QR code!
My name is Lollie Stanley and I am in my final year at Oxford Brookes University studying BSc(Hons) Animal Behaviour and Welfare.ย For my dissertation, I am looking for volunteer participants to partake in my research looking into dog training and human-dog relationships.ย I am looking for....
22/12/2022
Merry Christmas all! ๐
Thatโs a wrap on 2022! Merry Christmas and a happy new year from all the team here at The Wantage Pet Company ๐
16/12/2022
๐ฅถ Itโs a little bit chilly! ๐ฅถ
We all know how dangerous the heat can be for our dogs, but the cold can bring just as many problems! โ๏ธ
Make sure you keep safe and warm. Wear bright clothing, have a light or torch on you, avoid frozen bodies of water and remain cautious and vigilant โ๏ธ
08/12/2022
โฌ๏ธ๐๐ป
14/11/2022
Hi all! Sorry weโve been quiet recently, weโre super busy behind the scenes and unfortunately this has meant our socials arenโt receiving as much love as they should ๐
We also have this very bittersweet announcement to make - weโre fully booked for the rest of the year! If youโre hoping to get some dog training in before next year we can point you in the direction of other wonderful local trainers; or we can place you on a waiting list for 2023 dates.
Sorry for the inconvenience this may cause, we hope you understand! ๐
05/09/2022
Behaviour change takes time! โฑ
This is no such thing as a quick fix - we are working to change emotional responses
You and your dog are on a journey together. When youโre in the middle of this journey it can be easy to loose sight of how far youโve come. Youโre doing an amazing job. Keep your head up and keep being the amazing pet parent you are ๐
Time, consistency, dedication and understanding. This is what makes change ๐
30/08/2022
We hope youโve all had a lovely, relaxing bank holiday weekend!
โ๏ธ
We have been away in the New Forest, camping and visiting the beach. Itโs safe to say that Mia had the best time.
๐๐ปโโ๏ธ
Please bare with us while we work through our messages, requests and admin.
๐
15/08/2022
๐ค โYou shouldnโt take your dog out if theyโre going to act like thatโ ๐ค
Actually, my reactive dog has just as much right to enjoy their activities as much as non-reactive dogs!
Some reactive dogs enjoy long sniffy walks in the park, and they should be allowed to!
Some reactive dogs enjoy competing in Hoopers or doing Scent Work, and they should be allowed to!
Just because a dog has big emotions in certain situations doesnโt give them less of a right to enjoy doing the things they like.
๐ Never apologise for doing whatโs best for your dog and fulfilling their needs ๐
*The safety of our dogs and those around us is always top priority. We will always provide for our dogs in a safe and calculated manner*
01/08/2022
Another fantastic dog friendly place in Wantage ๐ถ
We are very happy to announce that visitors can now bring well behaved dogs to our cafรฉ terrace ๐ถ
Dogs must be on a lead and stay off the furniture.
20/07/2022
โก๏ธ Out of office until Tuesday โฌ ๏ธ
We hope you have a wonderful weekend and enjoy the cooler weather! ๐พ
Be the first to know and let us send you an email when The Wantage Pet Company posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Videos
Reactivity training should look boring! ๐คฏ
Reactivity training should look boring! No flashiness, just ethical techniques that produce long-term results โจ
.
.
.
#dogsofinstagram #dogreels #dogtraining #reactivedog #anxiousdog #ethical #forcefree #dogtrainingtips #dogsofinstagram #rescuedog #reactivedogsofinstagram #reascuedogsofinstagram #wantage #thewantagepetcompany #oxford #oxfordshire
3 Today! ๐ฅณ๐ถ
Happy birthday to our crazy little Mia! Canโt quite believe youโre three today - where has the time gone! ๐ฅณ๐ถ
.
.
.
#thewantagepetcompany #dogsofinstagram #puppiesofinstagram #dogtraining #dogbehavior #dogbusinesses #reactivedog #rescuedog #welshsheepdog #welshcollie #collie #sheepdog #birthday #wantagebusiness #womeninbusiness #awardwinning #smallbusiness #petcare
Weโre now on TikTok ๐
For weekly tips and training head over to our brand new TikTok!
And thatโs a wrap - we are now closed for the festive season! ๐ฅ๐
Weโd like to say a huge thank you to our friends, family, and clients who have supported up throughout 2021 ๐ฅฐ
Itโs been an amazing year, despite all the challenges we have faced. We were nominated for three awards, won two awards, and had the best time helping dogs and their owners! ๐ฆฎ๐โ๐ฆบ
We hope you all have a wonderful Christmas, a happy new year, and take the time to have a well earned rest. Hereโs to 2022!๐โจ
.
.
.
.
#thewantagepetcompany #wantagepets #wantage #wantagebusiness #wantageoxfordshire #oxfordshire #oxfordbusiness #ruralbusiness #dogtraining #dogtrainer #dogtrainersofinstagram #dogbehaviour #dogbehaviourist #dog #dogsofinstagram #dogstagram #puppy #puppiesofinstagram #pupstagram #puppytraining #womeninbusiness #womenledbusiness #smallbusiness #smallbusinessowner #supportsmallbusiness #localbusiness #supportlocal #awardwinning #christmas #multiawardwinning #festiveseason
And weโre here! ๐ฅณ
Come join us tonight at The Mix on Mill Street! We will be here all evening - talking all things doggy ๐ถ
Sign up for our new courses are now open - we think youโre going to love what we have in store for you!
๐ถ๐พ๐ถ๐พ๐ถ #thewantagepetcompany #dogbehaviourist #dogstagram #dogtraining #oxfordshire #dogsofinstagram #wantage #puppytraining #smallbusiness #dogbusinesses #womeninbusiness #dogtrainingtips #dogbehaviour #canineenrichment #puppygram #puppyofinstagram #rescuedogsofinstagram #rescuedog #reactivedog #reactivedogtraining #meetandgreet #meetthemaker #themix
๐ต๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐!
๐๐ป
We will be at The Mix next Tuesday for a Meet and Greet // FAQ session!
๐๐ป
This is your chance to get to ask any questions you may have, put a face to the name and to see what exciting events we have planned for the future!
โจ
This is a free, human only event
๐พ
๐พ
๐พ
#thewantagepetcompany #wantage #wantagepets #wantagedog #meettheteam #askatrainer #dogtrainer #dogtrainingtips #puppytraining #puppytrainingtips #dogbehaviour #puppybehaviour #canineenrichment #bemoredog #AskMeAnything #ama #meetandgreet #awardwinning #petcare #petcareservices #caninebodylanguage #dogtrainingspecialist #rescuedog #rescuedogsofinstagram #dogsofinstagram #puppiesofinstagram #smallbusiness #womeninbusiness
Struggling to keep your dog entertained in this heat? Why not try out one of the amazing free lessons brought to you by the @woofkidotcom team?!
๐งกEasy to follow, engaging games
๐งกConcise 5 minute lessons
๐งกBeat the heat by playing inside
๐งกHave a professional dog trainer in your ear
Whatโs not to love?! Head over to @woofkidotcom or www.woofki.com and start having some safe summer fun! ๐๐พ
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
#thewantagepetcompany #wantagepetcompany #wantagepets #dogtraining #dogtrainer #dogtrainingtips #dogbehaviour #dogsofinstagram #dogstagram #puppytraining #puppiesofinstagram #pupstagram #puppytrainingtips #beattheheat #canineenrichment #dogenrichment #bemoredog #woofki #woofkidotcom #allearstraining #ukheatwave #womeninbusiness #supportsmallbusiness #womensupportingwomen #petcare
Want your business to be the top-listed Pet Store/pet Service?
Share
The Wantage Pet Company!
Hi there, and welcome to The Wantage Pet Company!
My name is Lollie and Iโm the owner and head trainer here at The Wantage Pet Company. I have been working and studying in the animal industry for over 5 years and I am so privileged to be able to be doing what I love for my job.
I started my animal training journey in 2014 studying Animal Management at the amazing Sparsholt College. During this time, I found my passion for animal training and behaviour; being totally fascinated by the science behind why animals do the things they do! I started working towards my childhood goal of becoming a zookeeper and initially specialised in working with a range of exotic and avian species; working in a BIAZA animal collection to undertake behavioural assessments, ethograms and training programmes. I have been lucky enough to spend time at Jerseyโs Zoological collection, ZSL Whipsnade Zoo and Marwell Zoo to undertake further training and gain practical experience within the zoo industry. Alongside this, I have spent time on a working kennel in Northern Sweden, where I trained over 70+ working Alaskan Huskies. While at this elite kennel, topics such as performance, training, behaviour, anatomy and physiology, and nutrition were covered. I also had the once in a lifetime opportunity to drive a team of dogs across the arctic circle - this is something I will never forget! After spending time at the racing kennels, and over the course of various animal behaviour and welfare modules within my education, I realised that my calling was for companion animal training and education.
I am a huge nerd when it comes to animals. I am constantly watching, reading or listening to the latest updates within the animal care sector. There is so much misinformation available when it comes to dog training; it really is a minefield when it comes to finding ethical and trustworthy advice. Because of this, I feel it is important to be continually studying and furthering my knowledge within the sector. This also ensures that the methods I use are the most up-to-date and ethical as possible; which is something of great importance to me. If you would like to know more about my educational history and qualifications I hold, please follow this link.
Outside of my studies, and The Wantage Pet Company, I love nothing more than going on adventures with my Welsh Sheepdog, Mia, and volunteering at Lennyโs Lizards. Iโm always up for a chat, so donโt be shy to get in touch!
