About me and my pets

My Name is Lucy,

I am a professional dog walker, reward-based dog trainer and licensed home dog boarder in London and Chipperfield.

Originally from Dorset, I have spent my whole life surrounded by animals. Over the years, I have cared for dogs, cats, horses, rabbits and guinea pigs, giving me a broad understanding of different animals and their individual needs.

I have lived and worked in London since 2006. After leaving my city office career, I followed my passion for animals and the great outdoors. Caring for pets is incredibly enjoyable and rewarding, and I feel very lucky to spend my days looking after the wonderful animals entrusted to me.

My Experience with Horses

Horses have always been an important part of my life. I studied Horse Management and Care at Kingston Maurward College, where I achieved both a National Certificate and a National Diploma in Horse Management. I also passed two British Horse Society examinations. I still own and ride my lovely horse, Toffee.

Reward-Based Dog Training and Professional Care

I am a full member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), membership number 01588. I use kind, ethical and reward-based training methods, with the welfare of every dog at the heart of my work.

I am also:

• Pet first aid trained

• Fully insured

• Registered with the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC)

• Fully licensed for home dog boarding under an Animal Activity Licence, licence number M053007

I am committed to Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and regularly update my knowledge of dog behaviour, training, care and welfare. This ensures that the services I provide remain professional, evidence-based and in line with current best practice.

Whether your dog joins me for dog walking, reward-based training or licensed home-from-home boarding, their safety, happiness and welfare will always be at the heart of the care I provide.

My own amazing pets past and present

Rescue animals have always held a very special place in my heart. My own pets, past and present, have taught me so much about patience, trust, kindness and the importance of understanding every animal as an individual.

Ruby

My first beautiful dog was Ruby, a Saluki whom I adopted from a rescue charity. When I first brought Ruby home, I mistakenly thought she was an elderly dog—but she was actually only two years old! Ruby was a wonderful companion and remained a very special part of my life until she sadly passed away.

Willow

Willow is my gorgeous rescue cat from the New Forest. She was found in a shed when she was just six weeks old. Friends took her in but were unable to keep her, so during a visit to see them, Willow unexpectedly came home with me. She has been part of our family ever since.

James

James was an amazing little Chihuahua who needed a new home after his elderly owner passed away. He was already 13 years old when we adopted him and had several health problems. Our vet initially warned us that James might only have a few months left, but we were fortunate to enjoy 18 very special months with him.

Giving an older rescue dog a safe, loving home was a privilege, and James brought us so much happiness during his time with us.

Kia

We adopted Kia from a local dog rescue charity. Her profile described her as: “Cute or what? But don’t be fooled—she is a little madam!” She has certainly lived up to that description!

When Kia first arrived, she was extremely frightened, anxious and unsure of people. You would often hear her before you saw her because barking was her way of creating space and coping with situations that worried her.

Through patience, consistency, kindness and reward-based dog training, Kia gradually began to feel safer. Over time, she learned to trust people, enjoy the company of other dogs and explore the world with much more confidence.

Kia has sometimes been challenging, but she has also taught me an enormous amount about canine behaviour, fear and the importance of working at the individual dog’s pace. Her progress demonstrates what compassionate, positive reinforcement training can achieve.

Why Rescue Animals Matter to Me

I am a passionate supporter of animal rescue and adoption because so many wonderful dogs, cats and other animals are waiting for safe and loving homes. Rescue pets may need additional patience and understanding, but watching them begin to feel secure and enjoy life is incredibly rewarding.

My experiences with my own animals also influence the way I care for my clients’ pets. I understand just how precious they are and take the responsibility of looking after them very seriously.

Being trusted with someone’s much-loved dog, cat or other companion animal is a genuine privilege. Providing professional dog walking, reward-based dog training and caring home-from-home boarding gives me tremendous pleasure and satisfaction—and I feel very lucky to care for so many wonderful animals.

My beloved rescues