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About

A little bit about me

​I have always loved animals, especially dogs and horses, and while at university developed a keen interest in their behaviour.

 

MY QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

  • Masters Degree in Applied Animal Behaviour and Welfare from Edinburgh University (my dissertation examined the training of dogs used for landmine detection)

  • PhD in animal welfare and veterinary ethics.

  • Lots of voluntary animal-related roles

  • Formerly a Training and Behaviour Advisor for the UK's largest dog welfare charity (experience of handling and training a wide variety of challenging dogs and successfully supporting their rehabilitation).

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MY MEMBERSHIPS

All these organisations uphold the highest standards of animal welfare and ethical training.

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I am passionate about improving dog welfare and helping dog owners better understand their dogs' behaviour in order to live happier lives with their canine companions. My current animal family consists of a working cocker spaniel, a Welsh Section D mare and 2 guinea pigs.

Contented Canines is run by me, Carole Valentine and is here to help you and your dog have a happy life together. Over many years, I've gained lots of practical experience and suitable qualifications to be able to offer you the highest standard of advice and practical support for you and your dog. I use and endorse force-free, reward-based training methods to find the kindest support for you and your pet. I also support regulation of the dog behaviour and training industry in order to safeguard the welfare of dogs and actively support associations working towards this goal.

Areas I cover

I offer in-person appointments for training and behaviour support across Edinburgh, West Lothain, Midlothian and West Fife. Behaviour consultations are also available in East Lothian, Kinross and Milnathort, Falkirk and the Stirling area and towns in the Scottish Borders within a 30 minute drive of Edinburgh.

Appointments are available across Edinburgh including:

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  • Corstorphine

  • Murrayfield

  • East Craigs

  • Davidsons Mains

  • Cramond

  • Ratho

  • South Queensferry

  • Gorgie

  • Slateford

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  • Stockbridge

  • Morningside

  • Bruntsfield

  • Polwarth

  • Shandon

  • Colinton

  • Inverleith

  • Balerno

  • Currie

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