Q1. How and why did you become an Animal Behaviourist & Trainer?

I decided to work with animals because I am just so passionate about them, it is my life's work and my vocation. I talk of nothing else - anyone who knows me can testify to this, I'm sure!

I have a Combined Honours Degree in Animal Behaviour & Marine Biology (my major being in Animal Behaviour) from Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge and I ran a successful behaviour practice working on veterinary referral in the UK and have been running my own thriving practice here in France for the last 3 years, offering private consultations and dog training classes.

I only use methods that are ethical, professional and effective (clicker, whistle and target) with a belief that prevention is better than cure. I do not use choke chains, prong collars, or any aversive stimulus. My aim is to improve animal welfare and positively shape the bond between pet and owner.

Q2. Do you work with all kinds of animals?

I have been working with animals for over 15 years and have experience working with a wide variety of species, from dogs, cats, rabbits, horses, Moluccan Cockatoos, Umbrella Cockatoos, Bottlenose Dolphins, Patagonian Sea Lions, Harbour Seals, Burmese Pythons, Humboldt Penguins, goats, various fish species, otters and many more.

Within my practice I do work with a wide range of domestic species from dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets, parrots and all species of birds, horses, farm animals...

Q3. What kinds of behavioural problems/training issues are you able to treat and how do you assess the kind of training/treatment needed?

I assist with all kinds of behavioural problems such as aggression, separation anxiety, compulsive behaviour, fears and phobias, house soiling, etc.

I am also able to help with problems/issues relating to veterinary examination and procedures (using stethoscope, otoscope and checking teeth, microchip etc) in liaison with owners and their veterinary professional. Where there are problems/issues relating to veterinary procedures I work with the vet and owner so their pet can be desensitised to the required treatments and handling, this can be done in the same way with owner and groomer so grooming becomes a positive experience. This training can be applied for care routines within the home for example when cleaning ears, eyes and brushing...

I always arrange for a professional one to one consultation to meet with clients and their pets at their home, where I can carry out a complete assessment. This allows me to evaluate the root causes of any behavioural problems, provide professional recommendations and formulate a training programme/schedule which can then be followed.

Q4. What area do you cover and what services do you offer?

I run both adult dog training classes and puppy training classes at the Riviera Marriott Hotel in La Porte de Monaco and Ludi Park, La Colle sur Loup.

By arrangement I can also provide special group training classes in your required area. In addition I offer private one to one consultations at my clients home and packages for puppy training and first time pet owners.

Obedience training, doggy dancing, agility and flyball are some of the types of training activities that can be enjoyed in the classes.

I can organise special/bespoke training programmes to suit my client and their pet's needs. If needed, I can tailor specific programmes for residential training paired with incorporation into the home and in addition I also provide pet management training for guardiens/staff that may be caring for client's pets.

I am also able to offer behavioural treatment or training for a wide range of pet species from cats, rabbits, horses, parrots and many more. Owners may wish to enjoy building relationships with their pets and have some fun training at home which is fulfilling to both pet and owner!

If thinking of welcoming a new or additional pet into your home, I am able to assist with a programme of integration to successfully introduce a new member of the family.

I am also planning to offer dog training classes and events on the Italian Riviera very soon.

Q5. Is the training fun for both the pet and the owner?

"Here are some of the testimonials from my clients":

Victoria has helped me to develop a strong fundamental base for a great lifetime relationship with Cassie, now I have a growing puppy who is extremely happy, confident and well mannered. (Kelly, Mougins, France)

I highly recommend Victoria's classes and training. Thanks to her, my dog Noisette has gained confidence, learned many useful commands, and her barking is now under control. Perhaps even more importantly, Noisette has lots of fun in every class (as do I)! (Peter, Nice, France)

Victoria has been training our Golden Retriever, Toffee, since he was 6 months old. Toffee loves Victoria and she has provided invaluable insight and support as we have learned how to live with our beautiful new member of the family. (Janice, St Paul de Vence, France)

Q6. Do you sell animal products and accessories?

I sell handmade bespoke leather made to measure collars, leads and harnesses in a wide choice of colours. I supply Arden Grange Pet Foods at very competitive prices for dogs and cats. Due to demand my pet product range will be expanding very soon.

Q7. What are your plans for the future?

I the near future I am planning to run cat training and agility classes, kitten socialisation /training classes and parties, also rabbit agility and socialisation classes.

I am also introducing seminars, animal and pet workshops. (People can contact me for further information on this)

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Please take a look at this short video of Victoria giving you an insight into the world of animal training:

Q8. How can people contact you and find out more information?

They are very welcome to contact me by email or by telephone to ask any questions. I will be very happy to discuss their requirements. English and French spoken.

Website Coming Soon!

 

See Victoria's section on The Riviera Woman: Victoria's Pet Corner