
THE FIDO AND FRIENDS STORY
Looking for a positive, force-free dog trainer who takes a holistic approach to behaviour?
Many dog owners start with a playful puppy or rescue, only for some less than desirable behaviours to arise. Being able to listen and understand your challenges means I can guide, support and assist you in creating positive change.
I grew up with various animals and in 2004 the delightful Ella bounded into my life. I quickly learnt puppyhood isn't always sunshine and rainbows! With my natural curiosity and desire to learn and understand behaviour, we developed a strong connection and she left big paw prints on my heart.
After volunteering with rescue dogs and completing a certificate in Dog Walking & Pet First Aid, Fido and Friends opened for service in 2017, offering solo and small group dog walking. Many dogs prefer the small group environment, with individual focus, enrichment and positive experiences.
A few more years on after lots of study, I began offering puppy and dog behaviour training in 2020.​
I continue to have many wonderful mentors from around the world, staying current with the latest research and best practices in all aspects of animal behaviour and welfare. Fido and Friends is committed to compassionate, humane training and aligns with the APDTNZ Code of Ethics.
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My journey with Scout (in pic) began when he was rehomed to me in 2019 with a bite history and serious concerns around guarding. He is always teaching me new things about working with complex behaviour issues. Through positive methods we've significantly improved his view of the world, building trust and reinforcing my commitment to a force- and pain-free approach. Wellbeing is always my top priority - a dog who's needs are consistently met is ready and eager to learn.​​​​​
Angie​​
CURRENT MEMBERSHIPS &Â STUDY
APDTNZ - Full Member and Committee Secretary
Grisha Stewart - Diamond Member (courses and case studies)
Aggression in Dogs Master Course (Michael Shikashio)
L.E.G.S. Family Dog Mediator
Canine School of Science - Behaviour Bible
Canine School of Science - Scent for Six
Pet Professional Network - Gold Member
Janet Findlay - Reframing Reactivity
Glasgow Dog Trainer - Dealing with aggression and reactivity in dogs
Association Professional Dog Trainers NZ: Secretary 2024 - 2025
CERTIFICATES
Behaviour Works: Dr. S Friedman - Living and Learning with Animals
Karen Pryor Academy - Dog Trainer Foundations
Michael Shikashio - Aggression in Dogs and Defensive Handling
Suzanne Clothier - Relationship Centered Training for Reactive Dogs
Canine School of Science - Puppy Lab
Canine School of Science - 30 Days of Canine Science
K9 Education - Certificate in Dog Walking
PetTech/PFAT - Certificate in Pet First Aid & Senior Care
CONFERENCES
With leading international dog training and behaviour specialists
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Transform Your Animal Training: Cooperative Care (Eva Bertilsson)
Kiwi Vet Behaviour (2023)
Lemonade Conference with FDSA & IAABC (2021)
International Dog Trainers Winter Summit (2020)
Aggression in Dogs (2020, 2021, 2022)
Association Professional Dog Trainers NZ (APDTNZ): 2016 - 2024
WEBINARS, WORKSHOPS & MORE
Reactivity Roots and Responses (Kiwi Vet Behaviour)
Fenzi Dog Sports Academy:
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Real Life Skills for Performance Dogs (Hannah Branigan)
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Shoot the Dog (Photography - Amy Johnson)
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The Play Way (Amy Cook)
ThinkDog Mentorship
Susan Garrett - Recallers
Animal Training Academy - Former Member




