ABOUT JANE

Qualifications and Experience

I have been working with dogs for over 20 years, starting on my journey when I was 16 years old by volunteering at a local rescue centre in Hull. I continued my work at the centre in between studying a National Diploma in Animal Care at Bishop Burton College. The rescue centre took in stray dogs from the Hull Dog Warden so I was able to gain valuable experience of working with a variety of dogs and it was during my time at the centre that I developed my passion for canine behaviour. On completion of my National Diploma, I continued my studies at Bishop Burton College and gained a FdSc in Animal Management and Behaviour. I am currently studying for a Advanced Diploma in Canine Behaviour Management.

In 2007 I moved to York and spent 6 years working as an Animal Health Officer. I gained a lot of hands on experience with dogs, which were often collected as strays therefore came with no known history. This meant that I quickly learned to put my canine behaviour knowledge into practice as it was essential that I could interpret body language in the dogs I was working with.

In 2013 I joined the Minster Veterinary Practice and ran their puppy training classes. I later became their behaviour and training specialist, helping clients and their dogs with a range of behavioural issues, including fear, aggression, separation issues, reactivity towards people / dogs, sound sensitivities and much more.

In November 2015 I took the plunge and set up True Pawtential Dog Training and Behaviour, which I am incredibly proud of. I work closely with a number of veterinary practices in the local area and I am the behaviourist for York and District RSPCA and regularly work with dogs at the Animal Home as well as offering post-adoption behavioural support.

I love helping dogs whatever the issue but I have a particular interest in Adolescent dogs, Dog to Dog Reactivity and the link between pain and behaviour.

In 2023 I qualified as a Dynamic Dog Practitioner and I am a member of the Association of Dynamic Dog Practicioners (Licence Number 230805). This allows me to assess and identify potential signs of discomfort in your dog and provide your vet with an in depth report. Dogs are very good at hiding pain and it can often present as ‘behaviour problems’ so it is important to consider this when working with behaviour clients.

I am a Full Member of the IMDT (Institute of Modern Dog Trainers) and adhere to their principles and code of ethics which can be found at www.imdt.uk.com.

I am a Canine Training Professional with the Pet Professional Guild British Isles (PPGBI) and a member of the UK Dog Behaviour and Training Charter.

My Leonard

Updated September 2020 - Sadly I lost my beloved Leonard (Lenny) in September 2020 to a brain tumour. He was two days off his 8th birthday so gone far far too soon. He was my heart and soul dog and I miss him terribly. He is the dog behind True Pawtential and I hope his legacy can live on through me and the work I do. Sleep well my love xx

For those of you who already know me, you will also undoubtedly also know my dog, Leonard. He is a Staffordshire Bull Terrier who came to us from York RSPCA when he was 5 months old after been born at the centre in September 2012. What can I say about Leonard? He is my best friend and the best teacher I have ever had. He can be a challenge at times as he is easily stressed and at times, struggles to deal with frustration. He had separation anxiety when he first came to us and could not be left, even for a few minutes. With patience, time and commitment (as well as a much needed sense of humour) we taught him that he could be okay on his own and he is now happy in his own company. I am so lucky to have such a gentle, friendly, funny dog in my life and he has helped change so many people's perceptions of the breed, for which I will be eternally grateful to him. He has taught me so much more than I could have found in any book and continues to make me a better trainer, and person every day. 

bilbo

In January 2022 we welcomed a new addition to our family. Bilbo is a working cocker spaniel who came to us after his previous owner sadly died. To be truthful, he has helped mend my broken heart after losing my beloved Lenny. He loves adventures and is is at his happiest when he is either rolling in something disgusting, or snuggling on the sofa with his humans (although not straight after he has rolled in something I must add!)

I feel very lucky to be able to share his life with him and look forward to many years of adventure together.