Question 1

Why Pet Behaviour Consulting?

Accepted Answer

Finding the right trainer or behaviourist can feel like a minefield. Choosing the wrong one isn't just frustrating or expensive, it can also cause long term problems for both you and your dog.

I hold multiple academic qualifications and have been approved by trusted professionals including Victoria Stilwell, Karen Pryor and Veterinary Surgeons. You can feel confident that you and your dog are in safe, experienced hands.

To learn more about my background, qualifications and recommendations please visit the 'About' page.

Question 2

What does the training look like?

Accepted Answer

My approach is rooted in positive reinforcement and force-free methods. Whether you are working on building a reliable recall around distractions or addressing unwanted behaviours, the goal is the same - helping your dog want to work with you, not obey out of fear or pressure.

When addressing behaviour issues we focus on changing your dog's emotional response to triggers. For example shifting from anxiety, fear or frustration to calm, positive feelings. When your dog feels better, their behaviour changes naturally and those reactive responses reduce or stop altogether.

I will demonstrate each step with your dog (where appropriate), then guide and support you as you practice so you feel confident and equipped to continue the training on your own.

Question 3

Can you guarantee that you can solve the problem?

Accepted Answer

In short, no - and no one ethically can. Dogs aren’t machines we can simply reprogramme, so be cautious of anyone who offers guarantees when it comes to behaviour.

Successful outcomes depend on many factors including my assessment and advice, your commitment and active participation and your dog’s individual responses.

What I can guarantee is that I’ll bring my full expertise to every case. I’ll work to understand the root of the issue, then build a personalised plan using kind, ethical, science-based strategies to help you reach your goals.

Question 4

Why could my Vet be involved?

Accepted Answer

Before we begin behavioural work, it is important that I liaise with your veterinary practice and review your dog's clinical history.

If we are working on training (such as recall, lead walking or other everyday skills) a veterinary referral isn't needed. But for behavioural concerns like reactivity, separation anxiety or resource guarding, your vet's input is essential. That is because medical issues can play a big part in behaviour. We could do all the training in the world but if pain or an underlying health condition is driving your dog's responses, progress is likely to stall. We need to rule this out or address this first.

When you sign up for behaviour support, I’ll email a veterinary referral form directly to your dog’s practice. This keeps your vet informed and confirms they’re happy for us to move forward.

Question 5

Can I claim the costs on my pet insurance?

Accepted Answer

As a Full Member of the APBC many pet insurance companies will cover my behaviour consultation fees. If you are planning to claim, please contact your insurer in advance to check your policy. Claims are often assessed on a case-by-case basis so it always best to confirm eligibility before booking.

Be sure to let them know I’m a Full Member of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (APBC), as insurers typically only cover behaviourists who belong to recognised professional organisations.
To secure your behavioural session package, payment is required within two days of booking to confirm your appointment. If your claim is approved, your insurer will reimburse you directly normally once our sessions are complete.

Enjoy indoor & outdoor life with your dog again.

Behavioural sessions that work...

"Karen is wonderfully patient with our little terrier who is anxious around other dogs. He has come on so well with her help and we will continue with her suggestions. She is available to speak to if we have a problem which is very reassuring."

Dot with Jack the Terrier

Pet Insurance

Session Package Goals

My approach has two goals, a plan A and a plan B, because real life isn't perfect!

Goal one - change how your dog feels around their triggers

Goal two - teach a default behaviour your dog can fall back on

We also train your dog a clear, default behaviour that isn't compatible with reactive behaviour. This gives your dog something practical to do when a trigger appears closer or faster that expected. This is your backup plan, a way for your dog to cope when plan A isn't possible at the moment.

Together these goals give you a realistic, supportive training framework -

Plan A helps your dog feel better and works to resolve the underlying issue

Plan B helps your dog cope when situations are not ideal

This approach leads to achievable, positive results that fit into everyday life, not just controlled training setups.

Shirley with Harry the Cocker Spaniel

The Package £550*