| Danielle joined her husband James as a partner and head trainer/pet behaviour counsellor for my pet guardians, soon after the business was established in May 2009. Danielle has a unique breadth and depth of knowledge of animal
husbandry and behaviour, of both companion and wild animals, birds,
aquatics (including marine fish) and has a special interest in reptiles.
Danielle has had a fascination with animal behaviour from a very early age and despite not growing up with dogs, she spent a lot of time volunteering for local charities. She has gained over 10 years of experience studying and working with a wide variety of animals from lizards and marine fish to giraffes and rhinos. Danielle is a reptile enthusiast and has kept over 30 different species of reptile over the past 10 years, ranging from Gecko's and Iguanas to Bearded and Frilled dragons.
She successfully completed a National Diploma in Animal Care (Management) at Myerscough College to distinction level in 2005. This led her straight to Bangor University where she graduated with an upper second class honors degree in Zoology in 2008. During her final year Danielle specilised in herpetology and behaviour. She started a PG Dip / MSc in Companion Animal Behaviour Counseling at Southampton University in September 2010.
Despite being academically minded Danielle has always valued that no text book can represent the real thing. Therefore, throughout her academic career Danielle has gained a vast amount of practical experience in the animal care industry, from her past voluntary work in Blackpool zoo, private kennels, veterinary surgeries, aquatic trade and dog training centers; to her past employment at West Midlands safari park and in pet retail.
She regularly attends seminars and workshops to expand her knowledge and training methods. Danielle has completed a Gold level canine instructor course with the ADTB (Academy of Dog Training and Behaviour) and is currently a Provisional member of the APBC (Association of Pet Behaviour Counselors) working towards both APBC full membership and CCAB (Certificated Clinical Animal Behaviourist) accreditation. Her aquatic knowledge is also certified by OATA (Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association) as she has complete her OATA and advanced OATA assessments.
During the past three years Danielle has been rehabilitating her beloved rescue dog Junior. During this time she combined her dog training skills with her knowledge of animal behaviour and came up with her own dog training theory ‘Dog Guardians’. With Danielle’s passion, determination and patience as a dog guardian, Junior is now a reformed dog and best friend, who now lives happily with another rescue dog, Diefa and new puppy Holly. Danielle firmly believes that simple fun training techniques and good manners are key to a happy life with your dog, and is more than happy to show you how to use the tools you already have, to achieve the success you deserve with your dog.
Danielle can't wait to meet you and your pets !
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