Josie - Head Trainer

Hi there!

I’m Josie and I’m the founder of Positively Pawfect.

Here’s how I came to be a dog trainer…

I originally qualified as a Barrister and got called to the Bar at Inner Temple in London.

During my final year of training I became unwell and was eventually diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Fibromyalgia which impacted on my ability to practice. It took me a few years doing different jobs and completing various qualifications to figure out what I wanted to do as a career.

I have always been a HUGE animal lover, having lots over the years – but my first experience of living with a dog was rather stressful and I wanted to be able to help Lola manage her anxieties and learn some manners. Through researching, trying and testing many positive reinforcement based methods I managed to help Lola become calmer, happier and confident. The incredible thing is, whilst I was helping her, she was also helping me by improving my health and wellbeing. Pushing myself to take her out for walks in the countryside when I was in pain or fatigued meant that my physical health improved and coming home to a joyous bundle of fluff after a long day at work undoubtedly cheered me up!

My fascination with dog training and behaviour led me to discover the Victoria Stilwell Academy for Dog Training and Behaviour. I always enjoyed watching her show ‘It’s Me or the Dog’ and was captivated by how much knowledge and understanding she had about the dog's mind and how she was able to help families enjoy living with their dogs. Having experienced first hand a puppy with emotional and behavioural complexities, I understand the impact this can have on the home life. I trained with the Academy on an intense hands-on course, learning about canine psychology, physiology, behavioural management and lots more. I graduated from the course as a positive dog trainer with a distinction – I was over the moon! Since then, I have gone on to completed multiple other qualifications and I am currently completing a Level 5 Canine Behaviour Diploma.

Lakeisha - Trainer / Administration

Hi! I’m Lakeisha.

If you’ve attended classes in the last few years, you’ve probably met me already — but to anyone new, it’s lovely to be introduced to you!

I’ve been volunteering as a class assistant for the past two years. In that time, I’ve supported the team with everything from face painting at fundraisers to attending one-to-one sessions, to recently helping teach kids how to stay safe around dogs — and so many other incredible opportunities. I’m currently working on my Dog Trainer qualification through the Dog Training College and I am aiming to start running classes over the coming months.

I first joined Positively Pawfect like many of you — attending puppy classes with my dog Violet back in 2023. That was also when I began volunteering. Since then, I’ve been lucky enough to discover what I’m truly passionate about; supporting dogs as they learn in a positive, encouraging environment — and turning that passion into a career.

The last two years have been a whirlwind! Juggling my full time job as an executive assistant for a large finance firm, becoming a mum to my little girl less than a year ago, and all of life’s other ups and downs. But I’m so thankful, because it’s all led me to where I am today.

I’m incredibly excited for everything the future holds with Positively Pawfect!