Hi! My name is Sarah Hursthouse.
I am a qualified Canine Behaviour Consultant, with many years experience of working with dogs of all shapes and sizes!
I am, what they call nowadays, a "positive" dog trainer. That is, I like to find ways to reward a dog for something I want him to do, rather than punish him for something he probably hasn't been taught how to do properly in the first place!
I have a University degree, an Advanced Diploma in Canine Psychology and I am a Gold standard Approved Instructor with the Academy of Dog Training and Behaviour.
I undertake extensive research and I regularly contribute to Canine Behaviour seminars by the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors, the Royal Agricultural College and the College of Animal Welfare. I have been working with dogs for over 10 years now and prior to that, I have years of experience in breeding and showing, as a former Dog Handling Champion. I am also a qualified Dog Groomer.
My work has been very successful – I was featured on primetime BBC News in 2004 and I was also one of three Finalists in the Staffordshire Businessperson of the Year Award 2002. I have developed a strong working relationship with Reaseheath College, Cheshire, acting as mentor to students and giving regular talks to student groups within the Animal Care Department. I have also been a regular sponsor of the Animal Care Student of the Year Award.
Dogskool is also a proud sponsor of Alsager Animals in Need in Cheshire and I have regularly worked with Animal Lifeline to assist stray or abandoned dogs in the area. I have 2 dogs of my own – both Border Collies, one of which I do Agilty and Flyball with, and the other, now aged nearly 15, has a rather more sedate life although he still loves his walks and chasing a ball! I also have a horse that I enjoy competing in Dressage, a cat and 2 guinea pigs, just to keep me busy!
I hope to be able to meet you soon.
