Toni Edwoods PACT-KSA ABTC-ATI CARE-TC
I’m Toni! (they/them). I am a certified dog trainer through the Professional Association of Canine Trainers (PACT) and a registered Animal Training Instructor with the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC). I also have a separate certification as a Cooperative Care Trainer (CARE-TC).
I began my dog training journey in 2020 after my dog, Bella, bit a groomer during her grooming appointment. I realised in that moment how truly terrified she must’ve been and I wanted to do everything I could to help her feel safer.
After getting my certification with the Professional Association of Canine Trainers (PACT) I decided to specialise in cooperative care (CC) as I saw the confidence it gave Bella in situations that she previously found terrifying.
Cooperative Care is an area of animal training that focuses on handling and care procedures such as brushing, nail trims, body examinations etc. The aim with this training is to teach the dog a way to offer and withdraw consent during these procedures so that they happen on the dog’s terms which avoids stress and fear. We also desensitise them to these procedures so that they tolerate, and ideally even enjoy them!
The specialist courses I have done in CC are:
- Heather Clever – Introduction to Cooperative Care
- Grisha Stewart – What is Cooperative Care?
- Companion Animal Training – Cooperative Care in Action
- Linlin Cao – Cooperative Care Unleashed
- Fear Free – Happy Vet Visits for Dogs
- Fenzi Dog Sport Academy – Yes Please! Cooperative Canine Care with Deb Jones PhD – Gold Level
- Deb Jones Cooperative Care Trainer Certificate (CARE-TC)
In June 2023 I brought home my Golden Retriever puppy, Buffy. We immediately found that she had an aversion to being handled and we got started straight away on CC training. I have watched her grow into an affectionate and resilient dog that is willing to try new things because CC gave her the confidence to make brave choices.
I am also a volunteer trainer for the assistance dog charity Dog A.I.D. where I work with physically disabled people to get their dog qualified as assistance dogs for their guardians.
As a queer person with an invisible disability, it is important to me that my training is accessible and inclusive to all dogs and people and will do everything I can to accommodate you and your dog’s needs.
