I believe they enrich our lives and are the solution to all major problems in life. I love their toothy grins, their love for dirty mucky water, but hate for baths, their playful jumps and amazing snuggles.  I love how one cuddle with a dog can make you feel instantly calm and relaxed.

But for some, they don’t view dogs in this way.  They find dogs scary, unpredictable and frightening.  They actively avoid any interaction with a dog; crossing the street if they see a dog coming or not going to a friend’s house if they have a dog. Some have had a traumatic experience with a dog, others just simply didn’t grow up around them and don’t understand them. 

All fears are valid and seen.  A fear of dogs is not silly or stupid and should be treated with respect. 

Overcoming a Fear of Dogs

At Trusted Canine Companions we work therapeutically with children, young people and adults who have a fear of dogs to slowly overcome this.  We work with each individual and tailor the sessions to that person.  I have extensive experience working with autistic children, young people and adults and those with additional needs. Participants will work alongside Bonnie, a very calm black labrador.  Bonnie has vast experience around children; she lives with two young boys and works twice a week as a therapy dog in a school.

Fear often comes from the unknown

The ‘Overcoming a Fear of Dogs’ course is specifically designed to teach you about dog body language, why dogs bark, how dogs communicate and why dogs wag their tails (it doesn’t always mean they are happy).  Knowledge is a very powerful tool is overcoming a fear.

For younger children, we read stories about therapy dogs and dogs with amazing jobs, and each child gets their very own soft toy dog of Bonnie.  We go on a sensory walk, draw pictures of our favourite animals and learn about the amazing power of the dog’s nose. 

Systematic Desensitisation

The practical side of the course is built on gradual exposure. Observing initially from a distance when the dog is standing still, then to a moving dog, and then sitting next to Bonnie on a mat.  Over the sessions we progress to walking next to Bonnie and having Bonnie off lead near them. 

The course is about regaining freedom, gaining confidence and peace of mind.

Heartwarming Moments

For me, delivering this course is powerful, empowering and heartwarming.  I love the sessions when a child touches or strokes a dog for the first time.  When a young person tells me they didn’t cross the road when a dog was walking towards them, that is amazing.  When an adult takes the lead and walks Bonnie on their own, it warms my heart and my soul. 

Why do I do this work

As a dog trainer, assistance dog trainer and therapy dog trainer, I see the amazing impact dogs can have on people’s lives.  I believe no one should be trapped by fear, especially a fear that shows up in everyday life.  Dogs are everywhere now.  My aim is to create a safe, nurturing environment to overcome your fear and to learn to understand the power of dogs.