Hi. I was born in the UK and immigrated to South Africa in 1970. My first dog was a brindle boxer in 1975, which coincided with my first child. More dogs followed in the ensuing years (but no more children), 4 more Boxers, 3 German Shepherds, 2 Standard Poodles, 1 Cocker Spaniel, 1 Australian Shepherd and 1 Mixed Breed. At one point I owned 6 dogs at one time. I became interested in dog training and thereafter a trainer. I completed in obedience competitions and won a championship with my Shepherd, Nicky.

On moving to Natal in South Africa I ran my own dog training school for 15 years and became a registered breeder of Boxers. As the years passed and my pets also, the decision to move to New Zealand was made. My daughter was a resident in New Zealand and there is no better reason to move than to be with family.

Whilst waiting for paperwork to be processed by New Zealand Immigration and not wanting to be without dogs, I fostered 23 dogs of various breeds for a rescue society called Project Dog. I did so over a three year period. I was able to give the dog’s basic training and social skills whilst they were waiting for their forever homes.

Once in New Zealand I became a volunteer for Doggy Daycare Nelson in August 2014 and subsequently employed as the driver of the first “Happy Yappy Puppy Van”. So now I have fulfilled (in one way) the ambition I had when leaving school to be a chauffeur! I have recently completed a certificate in Pet CPR, First Aid and Care.

I love working and watching the inter-action between the dogs whilst at Doggy Daycare Nelson Ltd.