I started training in a veterinary practice in Bath and qualified as a Veterinary Nurse at Bicton College of Agriculture in Devon in 1992. After this, I worked in a veterinary practice in Cardiff for seven years, where I progressed to become their Head Veterinary Nurse.
I worked in an animal rescue centre for 3 years in Bedfordshire, where I developed an interest in animal behaviour. I was fortunate enough to work with a vet who was also an animal behaviouralist, and she inspired me to study complementary animal behaviour therapy.
Since 2003, I have specialised in dog and cat behaviour cases and have helped many animals and their owners with many different behaviour problems. I moved to the Golden Valley on the edge of the Black Mountains with my family is 2018 and have continued to offer behaviour consultations across Herefordshire and the surrounding counties.
Noise phobias, dogs that can’t be left alone, pulling on the lead, nervousness or aggression around other dogs, food bowl guarding and cats spraying in the home are all common problems I deal with.
I do not practice any old-fashioned dominance reduction programs or use punishment-based techniques, including the use of choke chains (Follow the link for information from the Association of Pet Dog Trainers) or other “quick fix” gadgets.
There are still many numbers of dog trainers and “whisperers” who practise punitive training techniques and will still use choke chains, electric shock collars, correcting jerks and punishment. They are bullying dogs to get them to do what they want, often calling it the “pack hierarchy”. These trainers haven’t moved on to the kinder, modern age of dog training.
Positive reinforcement techniques are far more rewarding and are now widely known and applied all over the World. I would encourage you to select dog trainers and behaviourists who only practice positive reward-based techniques.
My methods are purely reward-based, and most of my work involves giving you, the owner, the knowledge you need to improve your dog’s behaviour and have a better understanding of your dog’s particular problem(s), not bullying your dog into behaving how you want him to.
I believe the best way to understand the assistance I offer to my clients is through some of the reviews I have been left. From anxious pups to misunderstood moggies, my clients have shared their journeys and transformations.
🌟 With many 5-star reviews on Trustpilot, I am proud to be recognised for compassionate, science-based support. Please read my Trustpilot Reviews and see how I’ve made a difference—one tail wag at a time.
Fantastic for cat and dog in same house
“We’re now in a place we could have never imagined, with both animals in the same room and both of us calm and able to focus on other things.
We can’t thank Melanie enough for all of her work, and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her.”
Melanie comes highly recommended!
“Melanie is an amazing animal behaviourist who has helped us with our four dogs. Mel's knowledge is so extensive it has given us a much better understanding of how our dogs think and consequently act and helping us create a more harmonious home.”A lovely lady who has changed our life...
“After implementing the tips Mel gave us, we can safely say our walks are now local, enjoyable and far less stressful.Ben is calmer and we understand him better. Mel is very intuitive and explains things very well.”
Reactive rescue dogs
"Melanie has helped us with our 2 rescue English Setters. They were both very reactive with other dogs, people and would also occasionally fight. They were also very possessive with toys etc. Melanie had a great way with our dogs and with us. She gave us lots of great advise and reading material. Also reassurances of what we were already doing was helping. Our dogs have improved more than we could of hoped for. They are not perfect, but no more fighting, resource guarding and a lot better than they were and continuing to improve!
We would highly recommend Melanie if you have a reactive dog we hesitated to get a behaviourist but wished we had seen Melanie sooner as our dogs are so much happier now."
Knowledgeable and attentive
"Really helpful advice and has made my dog so much more relaxed as well as better walking experience.
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I cannot thank Melanie enough as it has really changed our lives, and having knowledge to support my dogs needs in more depth.
Melanie has a lovely friendly nature and made both myself and my partner feel at ease and did not feel judged for our dog’s previous behaviour.
If you have a dog and having any problems I would recommend as it has been extremely useful for us and changed my dog for the better.”
From cat fights to cat naps
A year ago today my two cats couldn’t be in the same room without a vicious fight breaking out.With Melanie’s help and experience and through a feeding regime and lots of patience they can now be in the same space for most of the day! Still a few squabbles but to be expected from cats with big personalities.
Melanie has been wonderful, with expert advice and plenty of time for me when I had questions. Her video call service was what I used during lockdown and it was absolutely fantastic.
I highly recommend Melanie."
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