LOUISE ETCHELLS BSc
Louise is our Dog Training Instructor and Canine Behaviourist.
She has a Level 3 Diploma in Canine Care, Behaviour and Welfare; a Level 4 Diploma in Canine Training and Behaviour Management and is a Will Atherton Certified Dog Trainer.
Louise's expertise lies in puppy training, general obedience and behaviour modification such as resource guarding, reactivity and destructive behaviours.
Ideology and Ethics
Louise doesn't subscribe to a particular ideology, preferring instead to train the dog in front of her, rather than relying on a rigid set of tools and methods.
Taking a holistic approach towards the resolution of problem behaviours, Louise will work to understand the dog's history (health, training and experience), their environment, any limitations placed on owners and breed characteristics to come up with a workable plan to meet both the dogs and owner's needs.
Her focus is to always ensure training goals set are realistic and fair for the dog, won't negatively impact the dog's relationship with its owners or environment and can be achieved by the owner. She sees her role as one of advocating for the dog and supporting owners to meet their dog's needs.
Volunteer Work
To help increase her knowledge and experience, as well as give back to deserving causes, Louise has volunteered at a number of rescue centres.
This includes The Cayman Islands Humane Society (Grand Cayman) where she helped look after up to 90 shelter dogs at a time and educate the public on the responsibilities of dog ownership.
Dogs4Rescue - a kennel free rescue in Manchester, where she worked alongside the in-house behaviourist supporting their most reactive dogs.
Quick Questions
Favourite breed
I'm a total softie for any large dog, to be honest, but there's a special place in my heart for German Shepherds and Staffordshire Bull Terriers.
What do you love most about your job?
Often, living with a dog who has training needs can be really stressful and it takes a major toll on owners. When you show them how to handle situations they've always found overwhelming and see that relief on their faces when they realise they can do it themselves is just amazing. Seeing people become more confident in supporting their dogs is a fantastic thing to be part of.