Animals have always been part of my life, not just as companions, but as teachers. I grew up surrounded by Golden Retrievers, a Cocker Spaniel, cats, and horses. Being raised by parents who shared their deep respect for animals with me. I was the child happiest outdoors, finding calm beside the horses, listening and learning early that animals offer a kind of understanding words often can’t.

As a family, we attended training classes with the wonderful Rita Lynd, whose influence quietly shaped the path I would one day walk. Her guidance planted the first seed and one that would grow into a lifelong commitment to learning, ethics, and doing right by dogs and the people who love them.

My final years of school were marked by significant challenges. Bullying, and the loss of one of my closest friends to suicide deeply affected my mental health, leaving life feeling heavy and uncertain. It was during this time that Fly entered my world, and everything shifted.

Fly was never just a dog. She was my anchor, my safe place, and the quiet force that helped me keep moving forward. Through her, I came to understand the profound impact dogs can have on our nervous systems, our healing, and our sense of purpose. She showed me what becomes possible when dogs are met with patience, compassion, and understanding and when people are supported rather than judged.

Losing Fly in June 2024 broke my heart, but her legacy continues to guide every part of this work. A Bark Above exists because of her. Her influence lives on in every session, every conversation, and every dog and human we support as they find their footing.

Today, my work is grounded in recognised education, Fear Free and Reward Based practice, and an unwavering commitment to ethical, whole dog care. As Tasmania’s first Certified Canine Behaviour Consultant and Fear Free Certified Professional Animal Trainer, holding a Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour & Training, I am proud to offer support that blends science with empathy, and expertise with genuine care.

At A Bark Above, we don’t just work on behaviour. We create space for understanding, confidence, and meaningful change; for dogs, and for the people walking beside them.