Testimonials
Lottie
Tasha is relaxed and secure at last, in her forever home, with people who love and understand her
Tasha,March 2024
We contacted Helen for advice on how to stop our new rescue dog from biting us and terrorising everyone we met out on a walk! Tasha, a 3 year old border collie, Was a confident dog but also very anxious around the house, biting our feet whenever we moved them and biting us if we tried to make her do what she didn’t want to, then scratching at the walls if we told her off. She had been re homed twice before us and we were informed that she was very dominant. Tasha is our 3rd border collie so we felt we could manage her with consistent training! At the end of 4 weeks we knew we couldn’t take much more and that’s when Helen comes into the picture, recommended by a few local people. We had an emergency 1-2-1 with Helen and although she didn’t discuss the biting issue that much Helen advised us on how to convince Tasha that she could relax and let us take over the leading role. Helen equipped us with the tools and know how to deal with Tasha’s dominant behaviour and improve her manners! Tasha is a different dog and Helen definitely saved her skin! Her anxiety has melted away, she is great company but still has spirit and a character of her own, she is a delight to take out on walks, loves to learn, loves agility, other dogs and playing with her toys. A remarkable turnaround in just 4 months. I would highly recommend Helen - especially for difficult, problematic dogs.
- Jackie & Alan G, monmouth
Daisy February 2024
Helen is a brilliant dog trainer. We did an 8 week course with my 12 week old puppy after not having a good experience with another trainer previously. I can highly recommend Helen to all dog owners. We had a great time learning at FIDO :) I’ve contacted Helen multiple times with questions since the course and she is always happy to give advice. We hope to come back and take part in the monthly puppy group soon.
- Amy P, Monmouthshire
Daisy is an energetic, delightful spaniel who is learning to be calmer around other dogs and to listen to what she is being asked to do!
Lottie
At still under 9 months of age, Tal is growing up to be a calm, balanced and obedient companion
Taliesin, February 2024
We took our 3mo Golden Retriever to the 8 week group FIDO Training and Socialisation Course. With many excited young pups of different sizes and temperaments it was sometimes understandably chaotic but Helen handled the situation impeccably. The facilities were great, and Helen was always willing to stay behind after each session to answer questions. Highly recommended. Helen was fantastic.
- Rhodri F, monmouth
Lottie
Lottie is so much more relaxed and enjoying life
Lottie, September 2023
“I want to thank you for spending time with myself and Lottie and for the insight and suggestions that you gave me. We are both more calm, confident and in control as a result. Lottie is a different little dog. She enjoys hunting for her treats and using her licky pad, and now no longer reacts to other dogs - she just calmly walks past them. I can hardly believe the almost instant change in her. It is now a real pleasure to walk her. I am truly grateful for your help, and if we have any further problems I will not hesitate to contact you.”
- DB, monmouth
Blodwyn, September 2023
Just finished 4 sessions with Helen who has helped Blodwyn, a Yorkie Jack Russell and myself deal with reactive and stressful situations, including other dogs. Loads of useful help and guidance delivered with great care and patience.
- Ruth M, Monmouthshire
Blodwyn has learned to deal with things that move quickly and is now learning that unexpected sounds are nothing to be afraid of.
Ouzo
Ouzo is ready for his lesson
Ouzo, June 2023
“Excellent puppy training/socialisation course run by Helen. Over 8 weeks my pup improved no end and it was great to have the support and encouragement at a time which is quite nerve-racking for any new puppy owner. Great to get the basics in place and I look forward to going back to Helen for further instruction once my puppy has grown up a bit. Totally recommend.”
- Lucy rickman, monmouth
Willow Clarke, July 2023
We sought Helen's advice for our anxious and reactive Golden Retriever, Willow. Helen is incredibly knowledgeable and patient and took the time to really understand Willow's behaviour. We were given multiple strategies to help build Willow's confidence and change her response. We really enjoyed the 1 to 1 sessions and Helen provided comprehensive guidance after each to enable us to practise.
We are now able to go out and enjoy relaxed walks with so much more confidence without having to scan the horizon for dogs or people! She is becoming the dog we dreamt of having. The transformation over a short period was remarkable. Overall very happy humans and dog. Thank you!
- Iain & Georgia Clarke, Monmouthshire
Willow is now confident and relaxed and loves walking in the woods.
Sunnie, June 2023
My husband and I are both dog lovers and earlier this year bought two Morki puppies, Sunnie and Tommie, (cross between a Maltese and Yorkshire terrier).
Tommie was shy but settled very quickly and is no problem at all both with strangers or other dogs. However, Sunnie was a real problem.
He became very anxious around strangers and dogs barking, lunging and on one occasion tried to bite. We believe both puppies were not socialised before we bought them so their training started rather late.
A friend recommended Helen and we booked several one-to-one training sessions for Sunnie and puppy classes for Tommie. The lessons proved invaluable, enabling us to understand what triggers to look for and avoid. Each lesson was followed up with videos and notes so that we could continue with the training and refer back to it. The teaching covers everything from what and how to feed your dog, how to take care of it etc., etc., as well as providing training exercises.
Sunnie has improved greatly. He now looks to me if he sees another dog and is much calmer around strangers passing by. Sunnie is now 7 months old and I’m sure we’ll have to continue with the exercises, but knowing that I can ring Helen for advice at any time is greatly reassuring.
We wouldn't hesitate to recommend her.
- Ivor & Caroline Coggan, Usk
Morki puppy safe on the sofa!
Flossie
Flossie giving her full attention!
Flossie, May 2023
“Since coming to Helen’s classes, my dog is much calmer, more sociable and able to focus on instructions. We’re so thrilled with the results. Helen is so knowledgeable and patient - no question was ever too much! I would recommend FIDO to everyone. These classes are an amazing opportunity to socialise and train your dog and we are so grateful for Helen’s expertise.”
- Chloe Mansell, Monmouth
Cecil, May 2023
When I first took my puppy to the classes he was nervous and yappy. But with Helen's kind and patient approach he started to gain his confidence and loved his training. I would highly recommend.🐾🐾🐾
- Michelle, st briavels
Cecil - butter wouldn’t melt in his mouth!
Jet has so much more confidence after FIDO Dog Training
Jett - July, 2021
We were referred by our vet to Helen after my whippet was badly attacked by another dog . He had become extremely reactive to other dogs and I had lost all confidence . On meeting Helen I felt at ease . four sessions working with Helen we saw a amazing improvement . Helen showed me how to get his attention off the other dogs and his recall has improved . .I would recommend Helen and have no hesitation in contacting her for help again when needed
- R.S., Pontypool
Willow, March 2023
"Took my very nervous cocker spaniel puppy to Helen's puppy class. Found it really helpful, informative and friendly. Was amazing watching my puppy become more confident each week."
- Rob, Monmouth
Could be Willow’s sister!
Finn, March 2023
Finn relaxes after FIDO Dog Training
Finn was a 17 month old Eurasier when my local vet, to whom I remain indebted, recommended that I seek help from Helen. I thought that Finn’s fear of going to the vet was “normal”. When his behaviour turned towards being reactive to all dogs; I didn’t know what to do. Helen very quickly detected a very nervous and anxious dog plus a very stressed owner, close to despair!
Our 121 sessions started immediately and as I work full-time, I found the mix of f2f and telephone calls the perfect mix. Each session resulted in videos and literature which I could revert to whenever needed.
Helen saw aspects of Finn which I hadn’t. Her close observation and studying of him linked behaviours to their cause as well as the tools to support us both. Our relationship improved. We both learnt so much from Helen. I had taken Finn to numerous classes prior to meeting Helen but these weren’t what we needed nor were they the help we needed.
I am forever grateful to Helen for her skills, insight, knowledge and experience.
- Lynda, Abergavenny
Fudge, February 2023
Fudge after lots of training classes at FIDO.
Fudge was a 'challenging' puppy - very high spirited, no respect for anyone or anything, thought she was our pack leader... but wow did she respond well to Helen's training courses. The puppy one was a good start, then we did the follow-on one, then the sniffer course, then lots more of the follow-on ones, because Fudge loves doing them, and so do I. The only one she flunked at was the agility. Just not her thing, it turned out. I now have a strong bond with a loving, spirited dog who does what I ask her - most of the time! After Covid, she started to show signs of nervousness with other dogs, which was very out of character. A one-to-one with Helen (and another follow-on course) have worked wonders. I'd highly recommend Helen - every time.
- cherry taylor, monmouth
Jet, February 2023
I had four 121 intensive sessions with Helen for Jet, a two year old rescue spaniel. I wanted to build his focus and manage his fixation with guarding objects like tennis balls, which had led to biting me and his previous owners. I was worried about the upfront cost but it has proven a very worthwhile investment, transforming my relationship with my dog, which will benefit us for a lifetime.
What impressed me the most is how much Helen knows about dogs; their body language, behaviour, developmental stages, nutrition, plus games and tricks dogs will love. Following each session I received clear and detailed information which helped me understand Jet's behaviour. This context made me see Jet as a good dog trying to make himself feel secure and comfortable in a human world, rather than a "problem dog". It helped me better understand my role in supporting Jet's development.
When I first met Helen, as a first time dog owner, I felt overwhelmed and confused by Jet's behaviour. Helen offered me encouragement and expertise in a supportive environment. Having sessions in her secure barn with plenty of treats, a wide selection of toys and equipment made it easy to relax and focus. Jet and I did lots of practice between the sessions and he loved being praised and rewarded for his steady progress. The information and handouts also mean I can keep referring back and honing what we've learned in the sessions even now our sessions together have ended.
During my time with Helen I acquired a toolkit for success including items I bought like a licky matt, a non chewable rubber lead, new treats and an intro to raw food as well as methods to focus Jet and a new positive mindset for me. There were no complicated or confusing techniques and no admonishing me for not being a good enough "pack leader".
Our time together has given me a deeper appreciation of Jet and helped us build a bond based on positive reinforcement and having fun together.
The improvements I have seen since attending the sessions are:
I am a more confident and assured dog owner
I understand Jet's body language and can help him stay calm before situations escalate inside and out of the home
Jet is noticeably calmer, more able to relax and settle at home
Jet walking increasingly to heel and pulling less when on the lead
Jet will now approach me for cuddles if he has a tennis ball whereas previously he would snarl, growl or bite if I went near him. We are still working on him dropping the ball!
Jet will sit and wait for me to put his food down rather than lunging or snapping
Jet's focus has improved through the games, tricks and techniques we learnt
Jet's recall has improved and I am beginning to let him off the lead
Rarely eating poo now and much more responsive to "leave it" command on walks
No more biting from Jet
No more mouthing, wriggling or wandering off when I put on Jet's harness or groom him
Helen is professional, supportive and her passion for dogs is always evident. Since our sessions ended, I have stayed in touch joining group dog walks with other alumni and occasionally calling on her for advice. I have recommended FIDO to several friends and will continue to do so.
Bryony, first time dog owner and Jet's mum
- bryony long, monmouthshire
Jet happy with his ball near Bryony
Jet the spaniel enjoying life!
Peaches, February 2023
Peaches is confident and focussed after dog training
Having done the puppy course with Helen at FIDO, my pup and I have benefited from careful and patient instruction from Helen and, my pup has turned a corner in confidence. I'll be happy to attend the follow up course and keep this going! Definitely recommend.
- Owain Rees - hendre, monmouthshire
Roxy – January 2023
Roxy, age 10 – cross Staffordshire/Chihuahua was rehomed by us in Oct 2022 having been handed over to Senior Staffie Rescue around Jan 2022. She had been kept in a flat all her life, watching the world through a window; reacting to everything with manic barking and rushing around the house and frequently being locked in the kitchen so as not to annoy the neighbours. She was completely unsocialised and unable to interact with dogs. Foster parents had done wonders and she settled in with us immediately. She is very people orientated, highly intelligent and great fund to own. However, she is still nervous outside and completely overreacts at the sight of dogs which is why we sought help.
We have had a first session with Helen which was highly instructive. She assessed Roxy as wanting to interact with dogs but giving all the wrong signals. We were given instruction on tactics to divert her attention and give her more confidence, which have put into practice and are already having a positive effect and we will be working on these for the next few weeks, with possibly further sessions to enable her to have close contact with other dogs in a safe and controlled environment, when she is ready.
We consider ourselves to be experienced dog owners and have rehomed other adult dogs; however, we have not encountered this particular problem before and it just goes to show you can always learn something new. I would advise anyone in this situation to seek expert help before the problem becomes intractable and possibly disastrous.
Looking forward to working with Helen again.
- sian williams - 18.01.2023
Rescue dogs need special care
Buster, March 2022
Relaxed at last!
“ After doing a full course with our troubled, reactive, rescue English Bull Terrier me and my husband find we have learned much more than our dog has. Helen is so knowledgeable but she also listens and takes time to understand the dog. She's got an amazing rapport with dogs, ours was putty in her hands. There are no magic bullets but with Helen’s help we have turned a huge corner and are so confident about the future now with our dog. The tools she's equipped us with ensure we never stop learning together. Its more than a training course its a deeper understanding of how our dog thinks, what he needs and how we can support him to live his best life.”
- Claire S, Monmouthshire
Tilly, November 2022
“We’ve attended both Helen’s puppy 8 week class and the follow on programme for older puppies/adolescent dogs and both have been fantastic. The progress we’ve made using Helen’s very practical tips and techniques has been really impressive from a bonkers pup with no attention span to one that’s doing a good impression of a well trained and polite dog. The opportunity for pups to socialise in a controlled environment has been so important.
Helen’s approach has given us the insight into dog (and human) behaviour for us to apply as our pup develops into a mature dog”.
— C Doman, monmouth
Ruby, February, 2022
“Ruby, who is a Labradoodle, and I have been attending Helen’s Puppy class for 8 weeks, which has not only been fun but so helpful in learning training tips and also learning about dog behaviour in general. We have been dog owners for the past 50 years so I thought I knew quite a lot about their behaviour, however Helen’s teaching has really helped me to understand more about Ruby’s behaviour and why she does certain things. One of the bonuses of the class was meeting other Puppy owners as well as the mixture of Puppies, which at times has been hilarious. The interaction with the other puppies has been so special, especially realising that all of them are a challenge at times and not just Ruby!! Helen’s support and advice in and out of class has been so invaluable, knowing I can turn to her for help. Ruby and I are looking forward to returning to the next level of class.”
— Sue T
“I have just completed Helen’s advanced course for my one year old cockerpoo. It was really encouraging to see the progress we had made since the puppy classes, and to see how to build on things to progress further. We all had specific issues we were struggling with and it was very helpful to talk through potential solutions. As a first time dog owner I feel more confident since attending Helen’s courses”.
— CJ, August 2020
“Attending the F.I.D.O. Puppy course and then the Follow On course have made such a difference to our training with Amber. Also the notes and videos you email following each session have been great. We and Amber also found the training sessions enjoyable. You teach in such a relaxed and comfortable way that it gave us confidence.
The help you gave us with building up the time very gradually to leave Amber on her own while we're out has been invaluable. We now have a happy, well adjusted puppy who can be left, so far, for up to 4 hours without any problems. I was getting quite stressed in the early days when it seemed we couldn't leave Amber at all without her crying and barking so I don't know what situation we would have been in now without your expert guidance”
— H & R Neal, 2022
“Just wanted to say a few ‘Thank You’s’. I’ve been meaning to e mail to say thank you for the agility courses, and for making them so much fun. I’m sure that Charlie absolutely loved them, and it was lovely for us, seeing how much he was enjoying himself. I was amazed at what he did. When we came originally I was only expecting him to do the jumps, I would never have believed he’d do the A frame, ‘plank’ and least of all the see-saw. Yet not only did he do them, he seemed to really relish them.
I also want to thank you for your work with Bear, and for the group walks. I’m sure the sessions we did at your place with Cookie and Arthur did a lot to restore his confidence, and the walks have been brilliant. It was wonderful yesterday to see him trotting along off the lead with the other dogs, even being jostled on times. I know he still has a way to go, but the improvement has been incredible.
It’s been so good for me to be able to question things and have them clarified, and explain any difficulties I might have, without being made to feel that I’m a totally useless dog owner, and that I’m wasting my time and everyone else’s. I can’t overstate how much I appreciate that.
So, a big ‘Thank You'”.