The path that leads us to our true calling is often winding and unpredictable. In my case, it began far from the world of canine training. As a former theatre nurse and a member of the British Army, my career took me through many challenges — each contributing to my personal growth and depth of experience. However, it wasn’t until I embraced the world of dogs that I discovered my true passion.

Growing up in the Chalfonts of Buckinghamshire, I developed a love for animals — a sentiment that grew even stronger when I settled in Horley in 2003 with my wife, Lisa. Together, we’ve cultivated a nurturing yet disciplined environment for our four rescued female Jack Russells, who have become an integral part of our lives. They bring immeasurable joy and demand dedication and consistency — but above all, I have my own little platoon who love to work alongside me.

My journey took a pivotal turn when I was fortunate enough to be headhunted by a local behaviourist — a decision that transformed my life in ways I could never have anticipated. He was building up his board and train facility, and I was hired onto his team, starting with the basics such as feeding, crate maintenance, and walking. Eventually, I was entrusted with my own dogs to train under the owner’s watchful eye. At the time, we only had two dogs living with us, but as my knowledge and confidence grew, I caught “the bug” to rescue more.

This role was far more than a job — it was an opportunity to gain the skills that would become vital in my new vocation. I learned how to handle a wide range of behavioural issues and developed an understanding of canine nutrition, first aid, socialisation, and a variety of training techniques. Each interaction with a dog revealed something new — another insight into their unique personalities and capabilities.

With this foundation of experience, I made the momentous decision to step out on my own and establish HoundMasters — a company dedicated to providing tailored, one-to-one training experiences for dogs and their owners. This venture has allowed me to channel my expertise into helping others build a deeper bond with their canine companions. Every session not only enriches the lives of the dogs I work with but also strengthens the human-animal relationship — something I find deeply rewarding.

My journey in canine training has been both demanding and fulfilling. Every day, I feel grateful for the opportunity to work with these remarkable animals — helping them reach their full potential and, in turn, empowering their owners to enjoy the true rewards of dog ownership. The fulfilment I gain from this work reinforces my belief that I’ve finally found my true calling. Most importantly, I’m now in a position to help reduce the number of dogs being given up for behaviours that many believe are unfixable.

Looking ahead, I’m filled with excitement and optimism. I remain committed to continuous growth and development as a canine trainer, driven by a passion that has completely transformed my life. My journey is defined not only by the skills I’ve acquired but also by the relationships I’ve built with the animals I serve. Each day offers a new opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute — both to the canine world and the community around us.