Alistair Kirk's Canine Academy

25/04/2025

Settling in for four days of top-notch CPD with the CAM Chronic Pain Symposium. Looking forward to expanding my knowledge and staying up to date on all things chronic pain related — snacks at the ready!

07/04/2025

Tonight we talk with Hayley from Puppy Power about our upcoming scentwork workshops.

31/03/2025

⚠️ We know that some coastal vets have been posting about the dangers on the beaches, particularly Llansteffan beach. These practices have mentioned that they have had dogs becoming unwell after walking in this area.

😔 Sadly we had a fatal case last week 💔

‼️We must stress that we do not know the cause, or the cause of the other cases that have been reported by other vets. All we do know is that these dogs have all been exercised at Llansteffan beach, Carmarthen.

⚠️ We just want to make dog owners aware of this. We also want to remind everyone, regardless of where you walk your dogs to watch them at all times and ensure they do not ingest or come into contact with anything that could cause them harm.

💔Our hearts go out to all the dogs and owners that have been affected in any way. Please, everyone take care and be vigilant.

27/03/2025

Last night saw these two amazing puppy and caregiver teams complete their Puppy Progression Course and they've absolutely smashed everything we could throw at them. Loose lead walking, recall, send to bed, stay - you name they've been awesome at it! A massive well done to Team Atlas and Team Mabli for all your hard work and congratulations on completing the course!

09/03/2025

Our goal is to prevent, treat and effectively manage behavior problems in companion animals to enhance and strengthen the human-animal bond. If you have any questions about your pet’s behavior please contact us.

25/02/2025

If it feels like you're missing something with why your dog behaves like they do... it might be they're in pain!

This Week’s Myth:
"A dog’s chronic pain is just a medical concern, and has nothing to do with their behaviour."

FACT: A dog’s chronic pain not only affects their physical health but also has a significant impact on their behaviour.

Chronic pain can cause dogs to become more irritable, anxious, or withdrawn, and they may show signs of frustration when they are unable to engage in activities they once enjoyed.

Pain can also make it difficult for them to perform basic tasks, like walking, eating or playing, which can result in changes in their usual behaviour. In some cases, they may become more aggressive or start avoiding certain situations altogether, as they associate them with discomfort or pain.

This connection between physical discomfort and behavioural changes underscores the importance of addressing both the medical and emotional needs of dogs in pain.

Let’s bust these myths together and make life better for our pups! 🐕✨

Sign up to our FREE course on how to recognise if your dog is in pain:
https://www.cameducation.co.uk/course/is-my-dog-in-pain

16/02/2025

Please share!

15/01/2025

Yesterday, I had the absolute pleasure of speaking with the wonderful team at Cross Hands Vets4Pets about chronic pain in dogs and how Dynamic Dog Assessments can make a difference. It’s always so rewarding to share insights and explore ways to improve the quality of life for our canine companions.

If your dog is showing subtle signs of discomfort or you’re curious about how these assessments could help, feel free to reach out. Together, we can uncover the root of the issue and help your dog live their happiest, pain-free life.

🐾 Let’s make a difference! 🐾

09/01/2025

I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing last week of Karen Pryor, a true pioneer in the world of animal behaviour and training.

Karen revolutionised the way we understand and teach animals through her work with clicker training and positive reinforcement. Her groundbreaking book, Don't Shoot the Dog! was one of the first two proper dog training books I ever bought (alongside the equally brilliant 'The other end of the Leash' by Patricia McConnell) and it remains a cornerstone for trainers, behaviourists, and pet owners worldwide to this day, offering a compassionate and scientifically sound approach to teaching and communication.

Her contributions to force-free training have shaped the industry, inspiring countless trainers and pet guardians to build relationships rooted in trust, kindness, and mutual understanding.

Although I was never personally lucky enough to hear her speak live, Karen's wider legacy will live on in every click, in every moment we choose to reinforce the behaviour we want rather than punishing the behaviour we don't. She taught us that animals — and people — learn best when treated with respect and encouragement, something that seems all the more important in an age of social media, and the constant demand for easy and quick fixes.

Rest in peace, Karen. You will be deeply missed, but your influence will continue to guide us for generations to come.

31/12/2024

20/12/2024

Wednesday evening saw the last puppy class of 2024 conclude with these two awesome puppy and care giver teams graduating, with another 3 that couldn't make it due to absence or illness. This cohort in particular was a great example of how careful and managed socialisation can build confidence, alongside training to work on behaviours, seeing a massive all round improvement from week 1 to week 6.

This year we've done 10 puppy classes for 40 puppies and their caregivers and I'm looking forward to helping even more people and dogs next year!

25/11/2024

With our Scurry Dog Workshops coming up in December, join us for a chat with Scurry Dog Co-Founder Clare Davies to talk about what it is and why it's great!

25/11/2024

🎯 Motivation gets you started, but discipline keeps you going.

When it comes to dog training, as with many things like diets or exercise, it’s easy to feel excited at the start of your journey.

You picture a perfect recall or your dog walking calmly at your side. But what about the days when you’re tired, busy, or things don’t go to plan? That’s when discipline takes over.

Training your dog isn’t about waiting for the perfect moment or the right mood. It’s about showing up, practising regularly, and turning training into a habit.

✅ Daily effort builds trust and consistency.
✅ Small, consistent steps create lasting results.
✅ Your dog thrives on stimulation and engagement.

Make training a part of your everyday life—like making a cuppa or brushing your teeth. A little effort every day is far more effective than a big session once a week. Your dog depends on you, and with discipline, you’ll grow together as a team.

🐾 We want progress, not perfection—and persistence is what gets you that progress!

21/11/2024

Scurry Dog is a Gundog based fun new dog sport with five exciting games and five levels of progression. The Games are based on skills that gundogs need in the field, adapted for all types of pet dog to enjoy.

Kirk's Canine Academy is delighted to be hosting .dog co-founder Aleksandra Borawska for two x 3 hour practical in-person workshops on Sun 15th December at 10.00-13.00, and 14.00-17.00, at a fantastic 60x40m indoor venue near Cross Hands - Silverstone Equestrian.

Check out the website to book, link in bio!

13/11/2024

This is the second time recently I've seen issues of this nature - the other was with some counterfeit Yumove again sold on Amazon.
Make sure you pay close attention to any medications or supplements you're buying - do they match previous packaging and stamping. Are there any spelling mistakes. If you're really concerned, contact the manufacturer and check batch numbers and any other identifying info.

Keep Safe!