First things first, will we make a good team?
It's important that we have similar ideals around how we communicate with dogs if we are to work together. Learn all about myself and my credentials below + how it all started with Baltazar, the cat.
My values and credentials
I am an Accredited Dog Trainer (IAABC - ADT) through The International Association of Animal Behaviour Consultants (IAABC). This means I sat a significant exam testing my knowledge of learning theory, behaviour, and creating training plans. As a member of IAABC, I commit to choosing the least invasive and minimally aversive (LIMA) methods when creating your training plan. I am also an accredited Animal Training Instructor through Companion Animals New Zealand (CANZ).
When working with your dog I will always instruct you to use ethical humane methods that are based on the current understanding of how animals learn. You will never find me using aversive tools, yanking on leashes, or yelling to get a dog to do something. I truly believe force-free dog training is the best way to teach dogs new skills!
There is no quick fix (except for management), or secret dog training recipe that fits all, so it's important to add a dash of humour, flexibility and creativity as we write up your unique training plan and action it. As your dog training coach I will be readily available to answer questions and guide you. My services are professional and respectful, where your information is kept confidential.
My story
I grew up with a sailboat in one hand and a cat in the other, on a little island in the stunning archipelago outside Gothenburg, Sweden. My parents wouldn’t let me have a dog (yeah, Mamma, I am still angry at you), so I took my cat, Baltazar, for walks in the wilderness instead. My passion for dogs shone through from an early age as I would knock on doors in the village to walk dogs on the weekends. I especially remember a chocolate Labrador called Smulan (the crumb) whose poor parents opened the door and handed her over at 6am half asleep every Saturday morning for years.
Baltazar
I spent a year as a guide dog trainers apprentice in Sweden, sparking my interest in how to train dogs. After packing up and leaving Sweden, I globe trotted for a while, volunteering in dog shelters in Palm Beach, Ubud then Auckland. Working with street dogs is a different kettle of fish to the western companion dogs, they gave me valuable insights into their lives and behaviour.
New Zealand has been my home since 2008 when I moved to Muriwai Beach. I got residency through my work at Barkley Manor - a dog daycare in Auckland. During my time there, I honed my skills in interpreting dogs' body language, and learnt how to create meaningful connections through play. Today I live by the beach in New Brighton, Christchurch. You are likely to find me wandering the shoreline with my daughter Miki, my partner Rowan and our dog Percy.
We brought Percy the terrier pup home the day before we hunkered down for Covid lockdown 2020. My dog behaviour interest bloomed and Canine Care is where it is today thanks to him. So let me sift through literature, learn the latest training techniques, and teach you what is most relevant to you and your dog. I can’t wait to get to know you and your four-legged family member!
Clara Fox
BTSM, IAABC-ADT, CANZ-ATI
Disclaimer: There may be times I need to consult with other behaviour experts to ensure I am offering you the most salient advice in regards to your unique situation. This will be done with your consent and may include my mentors or other industry professionals.
