About
Our Story
Hi! I’m Shauna – an animal lover, certified dog trainer, and lifelong learner.
I live with my partner and our Italian Greyhound, Tod. When we’re not exploring nature together, I’m busy sharing my passion for helping others understand their pets through training and education.
My journey started with a love for languages and education, having studied French, Spanish, and education for several years at university. But my true passion for working with animals was rekindled after a break, which led me to dive deep into dog training and behaviour. I’ve worked hands-on as a dog walker, in dog daycare, and as a puppy trainer.
Now, with certifications including ABCDT (Hons), CTDI, and AACE, I focus on offering practical, positive training solutions through my virtual services. Whether you’re looking for guidance through my FAQ hotline or personalized support with my Ask the Trainer sessions, my goal is to make training accessible no matter where you are.
I’m excited to continue growing my expertise and helping pet owners around the world, both virtually and in person.
Certifications
This one-year program provided me with a solid foundation to further my education. While some of the material was a bit outdated compared to the rapidly advancing field of animal behaviour research, it gave me essential knowledge in key areas such as puppy development stages, introductory training techniques, and an understanding of breed groups and characteristics.
Earning my Certified Trick Dog Instructor (CTDI) certification through Do More With Your Dog gave me a creative approach to dog training, focusing on engagement and building strong bonds through fun, interactive tricks. This program taught me how to break down complex behaviours into easy-to-learn steps and provided me with valuable techniques for motivating dogs of all skill levels. It has been a great addition to my overall training toolkit, helping both dogs and their owners find joy in learning together.
Becoming an Animal Actors Certified Evaluator (AACE) allowed me to explore a unique side of dog training, preparing dogs for roles in film, TV, and live performances. This certification gave me specialized skills in evaluating and training animals for specific behaviours needed on set, focusing on confidence, consistency, and adaptability in new environments. It has been an exciting way to expand my expertise, helping dogs shine in front of the camera while ensuring they are comfortable and happy throughout the process.
