Canine Coach Darlington

09/06/2024

🎉 Congratulations to Team Otto! 🎉

Today, Otto and his dedicated owner, Rachael, have achieved their IMDT Partnership Grade Two! 🏅

Rachael and Otto have worked incredibly hard to reach this milestone, building skills, confidence, and managing distractions along the way.

As well as still practising his super tracking skills - such a nose he has 🐾

And I am so proud of their achievements and the progress they've made in our 1-1 sessions in Dogwood Adventure Play - Dog Walking Fields & Training Centre secure field 🩷

This accomplishment is also helping us tackle other behavioural challenges too. So it's a win win 🙌

Well done, Team Otto! So proud of you guys 🐾

25/05/2024

Awh Izzy, you brought so much joy, happiness and love into our lives ❤️

From day we met, after your "adventure", just knew you were such special little girl. ❤️

With such a big personality too 😅

To Ellie & the boys, sending all my love, I know how special she was to you all ❤️

I am so grateful to have known such an incredible girl. Izzy's memories will always be filled of happiness and love ❤️
Will miss you, little princesses Izzy 🥰

16/05/2024

Have you got your FREE ticket for the The Dog Owner’s Skills & Confidence Event?

Another amazing event by Dogwood Adventure Play - Dog Walking Fields & Training Centre

Which helps BOTH owners and dogs!

Here’s what is being brought to you:

⭐4 quick & simple dog training techniques that get your dog’s attention FAST and prevent excited or reactive meltdowns.

⭐What’s really causing your dog to pull, bark and lunge - and the counterintuitive way to avoid it.

⭐The fastest & easiest way to get your dog to pay attention to you (and ignore other dogs, people, pigeons and pizza crusts).

⭐5 PROVEN mindset techniques that make it easy to feel confident regardless of your level of experience.

⭐A simple trick to instantly calm your body & brain to regain control on dog walks (use this any time you feel fear, self doubt or anxiety).

Starting 26th May - save the date & register your free place 💌

Have you got your FREE ticket for the The Dog Owner’s Skills & Confidence Event?

I’m particularly excited about this one! I’ve been desperate to host an event centred on YOUR confidence for AAAAGES - because confident dog owners get easier, faster results and their dogs enjoy more fun, freedom and adventure.

Here’s what we’re bringing you:

⭐4 quick & simple dog training techniques that get your dog’s attention FAST and prevent excited or reactive meltdowns.

⭐What’s really causing your dog to pull, bark and lunge - and the counterintuitive way to avoid it.

⭐The fastest & easiest way to get your dog to pay attention to you (and ignore other dogs, people, pigeons and pizza crusts).

⭐5 PROVEN mindset techniques that make it easy to feel confident regardless of your level of experience.

⭐A simple trick to instantly calm your body & brain to regain control on dog walks (use this any time you feel fear, self doubt or anxiety).

Starting 26th May - save the date & register your free place 💌

29/04/2024

Saying goodbye is never easy, especially when it comes to animals for me. I know it's part of the job, but it's something we never get used too.

For years, I've had the privilege of being trusted with Benji & Bella, and we have had some amazing adventures together ❤️

While I'm excited for their new adventures and the opportunities that await them, it's hard not to feel a sense of loss too. These pups have been a constant presence in my life, bringing joy, laughter, and countless unforgettable moments. Amazing memories I will never forget.

To Benji & Bella, thank you for brightening my days and being the best companions anyone could ask for. While our walks may have come to an end, the memories we've shared will always hold a special place in my heart. And I have no doubt you guys will have an amazing time back home and make lots of new friends and memories ❤️

It also marks the end of a chapter, too. I have been very privileged to have been able to care for many dogs over the past few years, belonging to boro players. This was such an amazing opportunity, which has provided me some memories I will never forget- Each individual dog has helped me learn and grow more professionally, too.
Thank you to all of them ❤️ Miss them all, but know they are living their best lives ❤️

This chapter may be closing, but other ones will be opening 🐾

20/04/2024

🐾 Exciting News Alert! 🐾

I'm thrilled to share that I've recently achieved CAMadvocate Level 1 certification! 🎓✨ It's been an enriching journey delving into the world of Canine Arthritis and Management, and I can't wait to put my newfound knowledge into action.

Did you know that arthritis in our dog's isn't just an issue for older dogs? It can affect dog's as young as one year old!
With a staggering 80% of dogs over 8 experiencing canine arthritis, and 35% of younger dogs also affected, it's clear this condition demands our attention.
In fact, in the UK alone, approximately 1.2 million dogs grapple with this discomfort, and sadly, it is also a major reason for euthanasia.

But knowledge is power, and armed with evidence-based insights from Canine Arthritis Management, I'm ready to make a difference to help more dogs, owners and professionals.

I'm eager to integrate my newfound expertise into my professional work, ensuring every dog I work with receives the extra care they deserve, regardless of age, sharing knowledge about home, exercise, management too.
Helping owners, caregivers and professionals to recognise and identify early signs of discomfort & how can go about getting the diagnosis, and management after diagnosis.

IMPORTANT- This does not replace any veterinary advice given, and I will not be providing any veterinary advice. Please also see your vet if you think dog is in pain.
But, I can help you gather evidence together, to help you be prepared to see your vet for example.

Whether you're an owner, caregiver, dog walker, or trainer, we all play a crucial role enhancing a dog's quality of life, and this includes providing we are meeting the dogs welfare needs when in our care, and able to recognise signs of pain, and how we can adjust our time with them more appropriately.

Check out Canine Arthritis Page for some great tips and advice also!

20/04/2024

Introducing our newest pup to our foundational sessions Gypsy! 🐾

Today's training session was a blast- just look at them ears 🤭

She especially loved exploring field! So many wonderful smells!

We looked at laying the foundation of new skills to work along side the ones her great owner has been doing.

To help aid stress free walks, defeat distractions and calmness at home ❤️

13/04/2024

🎉🐾 Big applause for Otto and his amazing owner !
They have been incorporating working on the partnership grades, along side of our tracking sessions.
Today, they proudly received their IMDT Partnership Grade 1🏆🐶
We couldn't be prouder! Massive congratulations, team Otto 👏 🌟

23/03/2024

Dogwood Adventure Play - Dog Walking Fields & Training Centre Stress Free Summer Dog Walks Free Masterclass is BACK!

Sharing all the summer tips we need for calm, focused, happy dog on walks, days out and holidays 🐾

Head over to Dogwood Adventure Play - Dog Walking Fields & Training Centre post to sign up for this FREE Masterclass.

FREE MASTERCLASS for the owners of reactive & distracted dogs! Pulling, barking, lunging dog? Prepare now for stress free summer dog walks! 🐕☀️

In this free class we’re sharing how to have a calm, focused, happy dog on walks, days out and on holidays, including:

⚡ Key Skills e.g. Recall & Loose Lead Walking
🧘 Settling in new places
🚗 Car journeys
🧳 Kit & packing
🏕️ Cottages & campsites
☕ Pubs, cafes & eating out

Don’t leave it too late to get the skills you and your dog need for relaxing summer walks and adventures. If you want to enjoy the nicer weather and longer days, the time to start planning is NOW.

4th April - register your FREE place.

The link is in the comments 💌

21/12/2023

Christmas break has begun 🎄

Just want to say a huge thank you to all the dogs and humans who have supported us this year.

Hope you all have a lovely Christmas & happy new year 🎉

See yous back in 2024 🐾

10/10/2023

Not only is Dogwood Adventure Play - Dog Walking Fields & Training Centre showing the XL Bullies and every breed support. They have put together this brand new course to help owners prepare. Including all the resources in one place from the live, muzzle training, information on neutering and much more! Link to sign up : https://scentventure.dog/bully-love-course-registration/

As promised, the Bully Love course is here! 🧡

All the resources in one easy-to-access place! Plus extra training and information not covered in the live classes.

From mastering muzzle training to preparing your dog for handling, achieving distraction-free walks and understanding the ins and outs of neutering, the Bully Love course proactively prepares you and your dog for the ban.

£9 launch offer! Link in the comments 💌

The live classes will always be free. This course provides extra resources and covers topics not suited to live classes.

25/09/2023

On Saturday, we held the first sessions for the bullies and types of dogs.

Both were absolutely stunning dogs. So lovely to meet them and their owners!

Both enjoyed the freedom of these sessions in secure fields, as they kindly donated the field hire!

19/09/2023

We have had an overwhelming and supportive response from the discounted sessions for xl bullies. It's been so lovely hearing about your dogs and your kind messages ❤️

Due to their just being me doing admin and practical side, it may take an extra day or so for a response, due to the volume we have received, but we will response soon as possible to your messages. 🐾

Don't forget
Has the free muzzle mastery class, where everyone is welcome too, sign up over on their page 😊

Thanks again for your patience, support, and understanding 😊

18/09/2023

Scentventure Guide Sarah is offering local American XL Bully families reduced cost face to face training sessions.

Training your Bully to walk nicely and greet people calmly is no longer a nice-to-have, but a necessity.

Sarah will cover basic training for common problems such as pulling on the lead and jumping up at people, muzzle training, plus and I'm sure she'll sprinkle in a bit of Scentventure magic too, for calmness and wellbeing.

£15 for a 1-1 session with Sarah, available until the end of October.

At your home, or at Dogwood. Dogwood is donating the field hire sessions to keep the cost as low as possible.

Contact Sarah Canine Coach Darlington to book.

16/09/2023

We 100% stand with Dogwood Adventure Play - Dog Walking Fields & Training Centre post this morning!

We strongly believe this is an awful step back in the BSL legislation, and want to help and support as many owners as we can.

After speaking with Katie, she has kindly donated the cost of field hire for anyone who may be affected and looking at my offer of in person sessions, working on:
🐾 muzzle introduction
🐾 enrichment and scentwork for calmness
🐾 loose lead & and answer any questions may have which we can support with

As well as Dogwood running FREE classes online, starting this week, looking at muzzles training!

To register your spot, click on Dogwood post below.

Together we may not be able to change plans, but we can support those affected 💔😢

Who else had a sleepless night? Thanks to the incredible work of people like Anita Lola, the reconsideration of Breed Specific Legislation seemed almost in our grasp at times. That dream has never seemed further away than now and I’m devastated.

Out of good taste I’m postponing Fifi’s Sweet Sixteenth celebrations until next weekend. As a little bully herself who has been on the receiving end of breed prejudice, I don't think she'll mind.

Instead, this weekend I’m putting my energy into creating some free online classes for American XL Bully owners.

➡️ The first one is Muzzle Mastery: How to Choose a Muzzle and Train your Dog to Wear it Comfortably.

Breed Specific Legislation requires banned breeds to go through an exemption process so that they can be legally owned. This includes an assessment and meeting conditions such as having them neutered, and being on lead and wearing a muzzle in public places (including your car).

❗️ If your dog may need to wear a muzzle for all of their walks, you need to make sure they are comfortable wearing one. Too many dogs end up in a situation where they suddenly have to start wearing a muzzle and because there was no time to introduce it PROPERLY, they find it uncomfortable, stressful, and some even fear it. It’s so important to get the training process RIGHT. And American XL Bully owners, you have time on your side. One of the best uses of the few months we have before the ban comes in at the end of the year is to muzzle train your dog thoroughly, patiently and gently. Not only will your dog feel comfortable wearing a muzzle but this will also prove you’re a responsible dog owner. ❗️

This class is for you if you’re brand new to muzzle training, or if you need to start from scratch with it. Owners of all breeds are welcome.

➡️ REGISTRATION LINK IS IN THE COMMENTS.

I need to work out the details but the class will be one evening next week. Register for updates and I’ll send you details of the free classes as soon as I have them. I’ll organise some in-person sessions at Dogwood too.

And perhaps this won’t count for much but it’s an additional string in the bow that can’t hurt… I will write a letter to confirm you attended the classes, in case you ever need to make a case for responsible dog ownership. Same if you’re a client who uses the fields at Dogwood or trains with Scentventure.

It’s a shame I have to end on this, but please don’t use the comments for vilification of *any* breed. The idea that small dogs are the problem is untrue and quite frankly tedious. If the only way you can defend bullies is by throwing other breeds under a bus, you are part of the problem.

Owners of all breeds are welcome at my online Muzzle Mastery class this week. Register to receive the details… once I’ve had some coffee! It’s going to be a caffeine fuelled weekend I think!

Dogwood, we’ve got this. Let’s remain strong and united 🧡

15/09/2023

Like so many others, it is absolutely heartbreaking news today, just awful.

Due to this, I am now offering discounted sessions, like so many other fabulous trainers up and down country 🙌

Working on:
🐾Muzzle introduction & Training
🐾Loose lead
🐾Enrichment and scent work for calmness

I personally suffered some verbal abuse off someone in the street today towards my Luna.

And those who know Luna know she isn't like the dogs the media are describing.

All down to media witch hunt. Which I believe may increase over the next few weeks 😔

So we want to help as many owners and dogs prepare for what may be coming by the end of the year.
We may not be able to change what's coming, but we can be prepared and help those who need some support

All sessions will be 1-1 and take place in your home or in a secure field.

No dog is left out here ❤️

15/09/2023

Dogwood Adventure Play - Dog Walking Fields & Training Centre nailed it on the head 👏🙌

We are deeply concerned about the government decision to ban American XL Bullies in the UK. Breed-specific bans do not address the root causes of dog-related issues and have unintended consequences for both dogs and their families.

Breed-specific bans have been implemented across the world, and history has shown that they do not achieve the desired results. Instead, they lead to a cycle of banning one breed after another, without addressing the underlying issues that contribute to dog-related incidents. To create a safer environment for both humans and animals, we must focus on responsible ownership, training, and education.

The welfare implications of bans are significant. While we understand the concern for public safety, singling out specific breeds results in the stigmatisation of dogs and their owners, the abandonment of family pets and overcrowding in rescues, as well as subjecting dogs to an assessment process that compromises welfare, and in too many cases, ultimately, their destruction.

Education is a key component of responsible dog ownership. It is crucial that we invest in comprehensive education programmes that teach potential and current dog owners about dogs’ needs. Dogs, regardless of their breed, require socialisation and habituation, ongoing training, species-specific exercise and mental stimulation, and above all, a sense of safety in order to be happy and well-balanced individuals.

Rather than banning breeds, we should focus on strengthening and enforcing existing laws related to animal welfare, responsible breeding practices, responsible ownership, and dangerous dog behaviour. By promoting responsible ownership, the government could create a safer and more compassionate environment for both dogs and humans.

Follow https://www.facebook.com/SaveOurSeizedDogs for good practical advice if you’re worried about how this may affect you, and they will be a reliable source of information as events unfold.

Please know that ALL breeds are welcome at Dogwood Adventure Play and nobody will ever be stigmatised for the breed of dog they love.

We remain committed to the well-being of all dogs and will continue to advocate for initiatives that prioritise education, responsible ownership, and the welfare of dogs of all breeds, shapes and sizes.

03/09/2023

This weekend has gone so fast!
Had an amazing time at the with , bringing scentventure to more owners and dogs.

What a blast we have had seeing all the dogs, hearing the wonderful stories and seeing dogs enjoy scentventure ❤️

Proud to be a scentventure guide ❤️🐾

29/08/2023

This week, in our tracking session over at Dogwood Adventure Play - Dog Walking Fields & Training Centre, Search and rescue dog Otto managed to track down an injured animal who needed help🥳

By using his super sniffy nose, he navigated through some tricky situations and environments, found lots of clues a long the way, to safely location the animal!

Well done, Team Otto 👏

Who knows what we may need Ottos to help with next time!

Want to learn more about tracking and how it could help you and your dog, drop us a Dm 📧

Learning whilst having fun 🐾

19/08/2023

Something exciting came through the post today ❤️

The official paper certificate & badges

Can't wait to see using them, proudly displaying my achievement 👏

14/08/2023

The North East Dog Festival is fast approaching!

And Dogwood Adventure Play - Dog Walking Fields & Training Centre has couple of tickets to give away!

Head over to Dogwood's page for how to enter 🐾

🥳 GIVEAWAY TO WIN TICKETS TO THE NORTH EAST DOG FESTIVAL 🥳

•2nd & 3rd September
•Kirkley Hall, Newcastle, NE20 0AQ

Team Scentventure is SO excited to be heading back to the North East Dog Festival the first weekend of September!

Fancy coming along to say hello? We’ve got a pair of tickets to give away! 🤩

All you have to do is:
➡️ Share this post (make sure you've liked the Dogwood page) and tell us why you and your dog would love to visit the North East Festival! If your FB account is private you’ll need to send us a screenshot.
➡️ Tag The North East Dog Festival and like their page.

DEADLINE: Tuesday 15th 11.59pm - winners will be announced next week. You will only be contacted by this account; spammers love using competitions to trick people so don’t give them chance.

Good luck! We can't wait to see the lucky winners at the festival! 🧡

13/08/2023

Another course attended yesterday!

A comprehensive exploration of resource guarding.

This has provided me with valuable insights further into canine behaviour, enabling me to better understand our furry friends and, in turn, assist a wider range of clients 🐾😊

12/08/2023

Can not wait for this 🙌

Love my job of being one of Dogwood Adventure Play - Dog Walking Fields & Training Centre Scentventure guides and being able to show others how Scentventure can help them and see them having fun together ❤️

Head over to Dogwood's page to enter to win tickets to come to The North East Dog Festival 🐾

Team Scentventure is SO excited to be heading back to the North East Dog Festival the first weekend of September! 🥳

We absolutely love introducing dogs to our giant Exploration Zone and supporting dog owners with training and behaviour advice.

Fancy coming along to say hello? We’ve got a pair of tickets to give away! 🤩

All you have to do is:

➡️ Share this post (make sure you've liked the Dogwood page) and tell us why you and your dog would love to visit the North East Festival! If your FB account is private you’ll need to send us a screenshot.
➡️ Tag The North East Dog Festival and like their page.

Deadline: Tuesday 15th 11.59pm - winners will be announced next week. You will only be contacted by this account; spammers love using competitions to trick people so don’t give them chance.

Good luck! We can't wait to see the lucky winners at the festival! 🧡

05/08/2023

It may not look like summer at the moment!

But Otto enjoyed his summer makeover to his tracking session this morning!

Using his nose to find the article, weaving through the obstacles, and building some environmental skills into it all too!

Finally he finished with some emergency stops!

Well done, team Otto 👏

Want to learn more about summer make over tracking sessions, get in touch 🐾

30/07/2023

Summer games tracking has arrived 👏
And we can't wait to get started!

Tracking uses dogs' natural abilities to help build focus and confidence, as well as so many more benefits ❤️

Then, mix in extra fun from summer games month, building more on your partnership and learning skills to use in real life & for life

28/07/2023

Tracking is getting a summer makeover to coincide with Dogwood Adventure play's childhood games theme starting in August!

One day, we could be tracking down our childhood games- which will also help build life skills for our dogs.

Then, next exploring the beach for hidden articles

And then see how we're using a hula hoop! 😁

Good fun and learning great skills for life at the same time 🐾

Get in touch to find out more 💌

summerfun

24/07/2023

Soggy happy dogs 🐾
Happy to be back at work! ❤️

23/07/2023

🥳 Work update! 🥳

Even though I am wrapped up still
I am back to work tomorrow for my usual clients! And able to drive again 🥳

Can't wait to see them all ❤️

Drop me a message if anything has changed to your scheduled slots this week 🐾❤️

22/07/2023

This amazing boy helped us track down evidence to solve a crime this morning at his tracking session. Well done, team Otto, for cracking the case 👏

Who knows what situation we may need your dogs to help with next time!

I believe that training should be fun to help engage owners and dogs to work together - building on partnership at same time - strong partnership = better learning together ❤️

Want your dog to be the next tracking superstar, helping to solve the crimes whilst learning valuable skills that can help on walks and everyday life?

Sessions are held in a secure field, 1-1 so suitable for all dogs.

Inbox us for more information ❤️🐾

20/07/2023

Dog training is always evolving - new studies, new science.

No matter where you are on your journey- I believe we should always be learning. We will never know it all.
Even though I have a good foundation of canine aggression and rehabilitation, I believe we should still update our knowledge from time to time.
So, I can make sure that I am providing the best advice to my clients and dogs.

By continuous learning from a variety of places who support the same ethics I believe and follow to provide the best for our dogs.

19/07/2023

Certificate has arrived 🙌