Michael F.
West Kilbride
Kind, positive reinforcement; care, and training
Pet care experience
I have been studying dog behaviour for a few years and have taken on two rescue dogs who needed a lot of support and patience. I can offer basic (clicker) training and boundaries. I have 27yrs experience as Secondary school teacher, an education/SEN specialist, working with young people. I am a qualified teacher with enhanced DBS. I am qualified in Canine first aid.
Reviews
Michael has been absolutely brilliant at working with Steve - who can be reactive and take time to build trust in new people. I feel confident knowing Steve is heading out on a walk that he is in safe and knowledgable hands and Michael respects his boundaries. Would absolutely recommend
Bailey enjoyed his stay with Michael. I think he enjoyed having the other dogs around for company. He obviously had plenty of cuddles. Regular updates and photos or my mind at ease at leaving him. Would have no problem recommending Michael and won't hesitate to leaving Bailey with him again.
Thank you for looking after Minnie she's had a great day.
Minnie had a great day thank you for looking after her 😄
About Michael F.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
Boundaries and safety are important. In my home I have two elderly (yet very agile) cats, so chasing is not allowed, we set up physical boundaries. Garden is large enclosed/mature, set back from a private road, with lots of shady areas, lots of water sources (small fountain, bowl and paddling pool in the summer). In a client's home I am happy to stick to their regular boundaries, and can train to support/create positive boundaries and behaviours in the home.
Home
Information Michael F. would like to know about your pet
Do let me know of any issues, needs (medical emotional etc) or behaviours that I may be able to help with. I'm studying a wide range of behavioural theories (and along with my 20+yrs background in behaviour modification with young people) I'm am hoping to qualify as a dog behaviourist (once I find a high quality course that suits me). I'm experienced in working with dogs that have anti-social, and aggressive behaviours, traumatised rescue dogs (Romanian street dogs and puppy-farmed dogs). Real "red-zone" aggressive dogs are the only dogs I would have to refuse to handle or have around other dogs I'm working with. I'm willing to give any dog a chance and help in any way that I can, so long as there is a frank discussion beforehand. I'm happy to cater for low, medium and high energy dogs and can offer appropriate structures for each type. I also have taken my two rescue dogs through Kennel Club Obedience training; Bronze, Silver and Gold levels. Unfortunately I can only take calm and stable dogs for boarding, as i cannot risk the safety of my own animals.
A typical day
Typical day is a morning walk across fields or in woods before breakfast. Some training, games and mental stimulation during the morning. An early afternoon walk, explore, socialisation and a final walk before dinner in the evening. Dogs will sit with us or go to their own room (with beds and crates) later in the evening (9pm onwards), although sometimes they might choose to stay up until we go to bed. Always offer a before bedtime wee in the garden.
Services
Michael can host
Michael can watch in your home
Availability
Routine is important, but so is flexibility depending on the dog's needs. Generally we walk at about 8am, eat, then rest for a couple of hrs. Afternoon activity/outing/walk (weather dependant) and then a late afternoon walk followed by food. If required, evening walk/toilet opportunity before bed.
About Michael F.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
Boundaries and safety are important. In my home I have two elderly (yet very agile) cats, so chasing is not allowed, we set up physical boundaries. Garden is large enclosed/mature, set back from a private road, with lots of shady areas, lots of water sources (small fountain, bowl and paddling pool in the summer). In a client's home I am happy to stick to their regular boundaries, and can train to support/create positive boundaries and behaviours in the home.
Home
Information Michael F. would like to know about your pet
Do let me know of any issues, needs (medical emotional etc) or behaviours that I may be able to help with. I'm studying a wide range of behavioural theories (and along with my 20+yrs background in behaviour modification with young people) I'm am hoping to qualify as a dog behaviourist (once I find a high quality course that suits me). I'm experienced in working with dogs that have anti-social, and aggressive behaviours, traumatised rescue dogs (Romanian street dogs and puppy-farmed dogs). Real "red-zone" aggressive dogs are the only dogs I would have to refuse to handle or have around other dogs I'm working with. I'm willing to give any dog a chance and help in any way that I can, so long as there is a frank discussion beforehand. I'm happy to cater for low, medium and high energy dogs and can offer appropriate structures for each type. I also have taken my two rescue dogs through Kennel Club Obedience training; Bronze, Silver and Gold levels. Unfortunately I can only take calm and stable dogs for boarding, as i cannot risk the safety of my own animals.
A typical day
Typical day is a morning walk across fields or in woods before breakfast. Some training, games and mental stimulation during the morning. An early afternoon walk, explore, socialisation and a final walk before dinner in the evening. Dogs will sit with us or go to their own room (with beds and crates) later in the evening (9pm onwards), although sometimes they might choose to stay up until we go to bed. Always offer a before bedtime wee in the garden.
Location
West Kilbride, United Kingdom
Pets
Michael F.
West Kilbride