I began my training in a veterinary practice in Bath and qualified as a Veterinary Nurse at Bicton College of Agriculture in Devon in 1992. I then spent seven years working in a veterinary practice in Cardiff, where I progressed to the role of Head Veterinary Nurse. After this, I worked for three years at an animal rescue centre in Bedfordshire, where I developed a strong interest in animal behaviour. During my time there, I was fortunate to work alongside a vet who was also an animal behaviouralist, and her influence inspired me to study complementary animal behaviour therapy.Since 2003, I have specialised in dog and cat behaviour cases, helping many animals and their owners with a wide range of behavioural challenges. I moved with my family to the Golden Valley on the edge of the Black Mountains in 2018 and have continued to offer behaviour consultations across Herefordshire, Gloucestershire, Shropshire, South Wales, Britstol and Bath .
Noise phobias, separation-related behaviours, pulling on the lead, nervousness or aggression around other dogs, food‑bowl guarding, and indoor spraying in cats are all common issues I work with. I do not use outdated dominance‑based training methods or any punishment‑based techniques, including choke chains, shock devices, or other so‑called “quick‑fix” gadgets. These approaches are not only unnecessary but can damage the relationship between you and your pet.
Unfortunately, many trainers and self‑styled “dog whisperers” still rely on punitive techniques such as choke chains, electric shock collars, harsh corrections, and intimidation—often justified under the outdated idea of “pack hierarchy”. These methods have no place in modern, science‑based animal behaviour work. Positive reinforcement is now widely recognised across the world as the most effective, humane, and rewarding way to train animals. I strongly encourage owners to choose trainers and behaviourists who use only positive, reward‑based methods. My own approach is entirely reward‑based. Much of my work focuses on giving you, the owner, the understanding and practical tools you need to improve your dog’s behaviour. My aim is to help you build a better relationship with your dog—not to bully them into compliance.
I believe the best way to understand the support I offer is through the words of my clients. From anxious pups to misunderstood moggies, their stories reflect the journeys we’ve taken together and the transformations they’ve achieved.
With many 5‑star reviews on Trustpilot, I’m proud to be recognised for providing compassionate, science‑based behavioural help. Please take a moment to 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."
