Dog Trainer & Founder of Paws with Purpose Dog Training
I’m the founder and lead dog trainer at Paws with Purpose Dog Training, and my work is deeply rooted in connection, communication and trust — between people and their dogs.
With over 20 years’ experience as a qualified primary school teacher, I’ve spent my career helping others learn, grow and feel supported. I was also raised in a home where dogs were family, and that lifelong bond naturally evolved into a passion for professional dog training and behaviour support.
My path truly changed when I rescued a beautiful German Shepherd cross with a big heart — and some significant behaviour challenges. Walks were overwhelming. She pulled relentlessly on the leash, mouthed, jumped and reacted to every sound, dog and passer-by. At home, she barked excessively, destroyed the garden and constantly sought attention in ways that felt stressful and exhausting.
Despite my experience with dogs, traditional obedience training methods simply weren’t working. What we both needed wasn’t quick fixes or rigid techniques — it was understanding, structure and a training approach that addressed the why behind the behaviour.
That experience became the foundation of Paws with Purpose: a calm, personalised approach to dog training in Melbourne and across Victoria, designed to help dogs feel safe and owners feel confident again.
My Journey: From Overwhelmed Dog Owner to Calm, Confident Dog Trainer
There was a time when walking my dog felt like the hardest part of my day. She was highly reactive on the lead, reacting to people, dogs and everyday distractions. What should have been a calm, enjoyable walk quickly became overwhelming. I felt judged by strangers and deeply embarrassed, and without realising it, that pressure crept into every interaction I had with my dog.
My stress became her stress. She mirrored my tension, and despite having a solid foundation in dog training techniques, nothing seemed to work in those moments. I felt stuck, frustrated and alone. What I wanted wasn’t just a “well-behaved” dog — I wanted to feel calm, confident and capable as a dog owner. I wanted walks that felt connected, not chaotic. And more than anything, I wanted support from someone who truly understood what I was going through.
Without that support at the time, I made a conscious decision to shift my mindset. I stopped focusing on how others perceived me and instead focused on rebuilding my relationship with my dog. Through reflection, mentorship and further professional training, I refined my skills and leaned into what became my greatest strength as a trainer: calm, clear leadership.
Rather than relying on control or quick fixes, I focused on trust, understanding and consistency. Slowly, everything changed.
Our walks became smoother. Her reactivity reduced. Our bond deepened. I was finally able to give her the life she deserved — one filled with safety, joy and calmness. That transformation didn’t just change my dog; it changed me. I went from feeling powerless to feeling proud, capable and deeply connected.
That journey became the foundation of Paws with Purpose.
Today, I work with dog owners across Melbourne and Victoria who feel overwhelmed, exhausted or unsure where to turn. Whether you’re dealing with leash reactivity, behavioural challenges, or simply want personalised one-on-one dog training, I’m here to guide you with compassion, clarity and proven methods.
Because I’ve been where you are — and I know what’s possible when you have the right support.
You don’t have to navigate this alone. You and your dog deserve a calm, connected life — and I’d be honoured to help you build it.
💡Trainer’s Tip - Paws with Purpose Dog Training
Ready to connect?
Based in Melbourne, I help families build stronger bonds with their dogs through communication and trust.
Get in touch today and let’s create harmony at home, together.
