Steph spent her early working career in hospitality and event coordination until she was chosen by her special dog, Kira. Kira came with many difficulties and behaviour issues which led Steph to learning everything she could about animal behaviour. From here, she began volunteering with animal rescues to help other foster carers and adopters as their new rescue dogs settled into their homes.
With this passion ignited, Steph threw herself into study, completing multiple certifications/qualifications in animal behaviour and training. She has been lucky enough to work under many experienced trainers during this time. She is also a part of the Education Team for IMDT Australia.
Steph is a Trainer and Assessor with AVT. She assists with marking in-person and online assessments.
Steph has a large caseload of clients with a wide variety of training goals, and her true passion lies in teaching guardians how to best communicate and work with their dog. She is deeply passionate about helping her clients enjoy learning with their dog! Her goal when teaching is always to make the process fun, memorable and achievable to ensure all parties WANT to keep learning. This love of teaching easily translates to the students of AVT where she works to keep them laughing and energised while taking in crucial learning and skills.
Outside of work, she is usually found with her dog, Kira. As a team, they compete in Scent Work competitions as well as teaching Kira fun tricks (like painting!).
Steph’s Qualifications:
- IMDT Qualified Trainer (Distinction)
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed
- Fear Free Certified Professional (Veterinary)
- Certificate IV in Training and Assessment
- Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training
- Canine Behaviour Consultant
