I was born and raised in South Africa. After competing as a professional surfer for a while, I decided I wanted to give back to my community. I started volunteering at animal rescue organisations and shelters where I then did a Canine Behaviour Shelter Course. That was when I realised that there was so much more to learn about our canine friends, and I had to know more! My eyes opened up to a whole new world of dog training and behaviour. I furthered my knowledge in dog training and assisted with puppy classes in South Africa while fostering and adopting two of my own dogs. When my one dog started developing behaviour “problems”, I realised I actually hadn’t learnt enough to help him, so I reached out to behaviourists in the area to help me. After meeting with a few of them, I found out that they didn’t have my dog’s best interest at heart, and they focused on correcting and disciplining my dog so it made me realise that I was the only one that could help him, and I would have to find the resources from other countries.

That’s when I found Victoria Stillwell Academy. They were able to perfect my training skills and help me to connect more with the behaviour side of dogs. At the same time, I had moved to Cape Town and found guidance through the only KPA Certified Dog Trainer who was able to help me further grow my skills and at the same time help me to help my dog. I noticed there was a need for more ethical dog trainers and behaviourists in the country, so I continued my studies through Absolute Dogs, COAPE, Karen Pryor Academy, Caroline Ingraham, and Michael Shikashio and made sure to become a FEAR FREE Certified Professional. I then founded THE ANIMAL WELLNESS COACH which offers an ethical and holistic approach to animal behaviour modification and training. Clients can expect to receive up-to-date, positive, professional, and scientific-based approaches to dealing with their animals’ behaviours. Feel free to reach out to me for all your animal behaviour and training needs.