John (Covering East Midlands, West Midlands, Norfolk, Yorkshire)

Hi, I'm John. I have been working with both domestic and wild animals throughout my life and have always had a natural affinity with them, supported by my calm nature.

For the last twenty years I have trained dogs for family, friends, and private clients, achieving excellent results. The feedback I hear most often from new owners is, "We got your details from a friend," or, "We contacted you as we have tried everything, they are just untrainable." The truth is that all dogs, no matter their age, can learn. Every day is a school day, for us as much as for them.

I have cared for countless dogs while their owners have been away for work or on holiday. A regular comment on their return is, "They are never that good for me." I have also attended the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers, completing training in Practical Instructors, Dog Training, and Aggression and Rehabilitation. Positive reinforcement remains my main approach to every dog I work with.

Over the last five years I have also worked with Blue Cross Animal Rescue, including throughout Covid, helping transport animals to their forever homes and offering new owners advice on care. I also served as an inspector with the Scottish SPCA, rescuing injured wildlife including seals and whales, investigating cases of domestic and farming cruelty, and caring for sick or injured wild animals and birds. During this time, I rehomed a wide variety of animals, from hamsters and dogs to sheep, pigs, and horses.

Feedback

Owner hadn't been on holiday in 6 years:

"You have freed me from the shackles of home, not taking a holiday because I wouldn't leave the dogs in kennels before you took them. Driving to pick them up after my break, I was still thinking all sorts of things. When I got there, they were so chilled, it was like I had been into town for 30 minutes."

Dog not listening to the owner:

"Very proud moment, two days in a row where I haven't needed to re-direct her to where she is meant to go. When it is time to go in the car, she will now sit and wait at the house with the front door open until I have opened the car door and then I call her. She gets straight in the car whatever the distraction. Thank you, I couldn't have done it without you."