My journey into professional dog training didn’t start in a classroom; it started at home with a 10 week old bearded collie/heading dog mix named Xena.

When Xena became reactive at a year old, I threw myself into researching canine behavior to understand why. Through a lot of trial, error, and patience (from both of us) Xena effectively "trained" me to be the trainer I am today. She is wicked smart, a keen learner and fiercely independent. While she’ll never be a social butterfly, she is the reason I am so deeply committed to force-free methods and continuous evolution. I can’t change the past, but I can use everything she taught me to make life easier for you and your dog.

At home in Featherston, I live with my beautiful wife and together we manage wonderful chaos. There’s Tarzan the cat who can sit and spin (begrudgingly), and a lively flock of 12 chickens with names ranging from Dulce to Valentina.

Xena is the household’s sassy resident athlete. She lives for momentum—whether she’s out for a run, finding a bone to sink her teeth into, or maintaining her lean physique, she’s keen for for whatever you’re up to.

A total people-person with a cheeky streak, her favorite self-appointed job is stealthily herding the chickens into the house the moment you look away. While she loves humans, she’s a bit of a "breed snob" and almost always prefers the company of a fellow Collie over anyone else. Life with Xena is fast-paced, highly coordinated, and never boring!

Then there’s Zoe, she is the polar opposite of her best mate Xena. She is an old soul with an impressive intuition for body language. She’s my neutral bystander for helping reactive dogs and a patient mentor for puppies learning the ropes of social boundaries and recall. She’s a vital part of the team, though she does insist on being paid in pats and snacks.

Community is at the heart of everything I do. I’m a proud member of the Featherston Dog Park committee-you might have seen the agility equipment I "rummaged and hoarded" to help locals get stuck in with their dogs.

I work closely with Chance 4 Change, running fortnightly classes to help foster dogs get "forever-home ready," and I regularly collect donations for the SPCA and Retired Working Dogs.

When I’m not on the training field or volunteering at Mrs. Hope’s Second Chance Emporium, I’m usually busy sewing, walking, or building something new for the garden—whether it’s a woodshed or a new home for the chooks.

For me, this isn't just a job; it’s about supporting the Wairarapa community and helping every owner find more ease, clarity, and confidence in their life with their dog.