I have had dogs for most of my life and was brought up with dogs, and for the short time I've spent without dogs have had other pets and looked after dogs belonging to friends and family.The first dog of my very own was a Chihuahua called Che (Guevara!) - a very little dog with a BIG name and personality. He was bought for me when I was at University and although he didn't do anything competitively he had a large repertoire of tricks!

I live with Bob, my partner of about 35 years who I often refer to as one of my Beardies. It's obvious from the picture why he fits in so well with the Beardies I have owned over the last 25 years.

I have competed in the breed ring as well as in obedience, agility, HTM and Canine Freestyle. In addition I have judged in breed, agility, Working Tests as well as in HTM and Freestyle, and have had the honour of judging the Freestyle & HTM Finals, the International Freestyle as well as the YKC classes at Crufts not only once but twice. My judging has taken me to the World Championships as well as to the Open European Championships and to various European Countries. This year I look forward to embarking on judging and competing in Disc Dog. 

My academic background is primarily in education. I have a first class honours degree in Psychology as well as a post graduate MSc in Research Methods in Psychology and a Diploma in Education. I have worked at all levels of education - in playgroups, primary schools, a secondary school as well as in Further Education and in University where I was involved in lecturing and in research.. 

This year I have embarked on becoming an author as I have written my first book - Dare's Diary - From Rescue Dog to Crufts and Beyond. I am sure I will write another book very soon!

My background in psychology equips me well as a trainer and I train with positive methods and an understanding of animal behaviour. Check out the Training page for further information regards classes, individual training sessions or if you want to host a training day or weekend.

Heather with Flash (Cocker Spaniel) and Trixie (JRT)

Heather and Judy (Alsatian)

Me, with my human relatives and Sparky (X breed) and Trix (JRT)

Heather and Lady (JRT)

Che Guevara

Heather and Che

My Beardies - Bob and the guys!