my story

My love affair with dogs started many years ago with a little Lakeland / Jack Russell Terrier mix called Nipper. He bounced into our lives, causing chaos and fun wherever he went. He was in my life for eighteen years and the reason why I always wanted to work with animals and especially helping others build the bond with their family pet. I have had many other dogs come through our home and have learned from each and every one of them.

In 2013 I decided to open my own dog training and behaviour advisory service while gaining the relative qualifications and experience. 

I am a Certified Dog Behaviour Consultant with the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC),  having undergone an intense process including getting both client and veterinarian references, submitting case studies and evaluation of learning theory and animal behavioural knowledge.  I am currently one of only four certified behaviour consultants in Ireland.  

I am also an extremely proud professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers Ireland (APDTI 035). 

Not only is it my goal to help clients with any problems they may be experiencing with their beloved dogs, I am a passionate advocate in promoting the need to have this industry regulated. 

What is a Behaviourist?

Firstly, the training and behaviour industry is an unregulated industry which means anyone, despite what experience, from none to the vastly experienced can call themselves a trainer. However, over the last decade particularly, the realisation of the need to develop organisations that recognise and acknowledge the work and dedication ethical trainers put into educating themselves in practices that help rather than hinder client’s pets have led to many organisations being created including that of APDT Ireland. Every trainer who makes professional standard within APDT Ireland, is rigorously tested on both learning aptitude and practical skills.

Those who deal with behavioural issues, need a much more in-depth knowledge to be able to correctly diagnose and safety treat any family pet who may be displaying worrying or upsetting behaviours. 

Over the last decade, it was noted there were many different organisations with varying ideas of what way animal behaviour and training should be taught, presented and represented. This has caused much confusion not only among those who work within the industry but also the general public looking to engage with what they believe are suitably qualified professionals. An umbrella organisation to set a standard was badly needed and so,Association of Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC) was born.The purpose of ABTC was and still is, to set and maintain the standards of knowledge and practical skills needed to be a qualified trainer or behaviourist, maintain a register of appropriately qualified practitioners and to promote humane methods for the welfare of animals in their work.

Here, in Ireland, we currently have no organisation or body to properly assess and regulate qualified behaviour consultants and so are evaluated and recognised under the Association of Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC).

We currently only have one Certified Clinical Animal Behaviourist (CCAB). Dr. Maureen Byrne, who was awarded her title through the Association for Study of Animal Behaviour (ASAB) and is currently a highly regarded member of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (APBC).

We then have three Certified Dog Behaviour Consultants (CDBC) who are accredited by the International Association Animal Behaviour Consultants (IAABC)

Unfortunately, because the industry is self regulated , Behaviourist is not a protected title like a vet or doctor  which means anyone can call themselves one. This is why it is so important for the client to check a person is suitably qualified before allowing them to treat their pet. However there are many of us out there who are pushing to see this industry properly regulated with easy to understand guidelines so people know what they are getting. This is something I hope we will see within my lifetime.