Josie - Head Trainer
Hi there!
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I’m Josie and I’m the founder of Positively Pawfect.
Here’s how I came to be a dog trainer…
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I originally qualified as a Barrister and got called to the Bar at Inner Temple in London.
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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!
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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.
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Carolina - Trainer
Hi, I’m Carolina and I’m a trainer at Positively Pawfect.
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I started volunteering with Josie many years ago, and after welcoming my own dog to our home my passion for training was fuelled and I began completing different studies and shadowing opportunities with Josie. I am a mental health trainer in my full time work, and my evenings and weekends are spent training your amazing dogs.
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I am a keen learner and am always seeking new information and knowledge in this fantastic industry. My specialist interest is Canine Nutrition, and I am currently completing a Level 3 Canine Nutrition Diploma alongside a Level 4 Advanced Canine Behaviour Diploma.
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I work with clients on a one-to-one basis all across Lancashire, and deliver our Beginners classes and Training Clubs.
Jo - Trainer
Hello, I am Johanna and I am a trainer in training with Positively Pawfect.
I have been a full time dog walker for five years now and started volunteering with Josie and the team in 2023 to gain more experience with dogs in different environments. At the same time, I was completing my studies with the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers and in May 2023 qualified with them.
I am always eager to continue my personal development and learning and so I am currently completing a Level 4 Advanced Canine Behaviour diploma. My continuation in studies is also fuelled by my reactive rescue Collie, Roo. I work with clients on a one-to-one basis in the Fylde area.
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