About me
My Story
Professional journey
I grew up in a rural part of the UK, and my life was surrounded by animals. I dreamed of living with a dog (my dream dog growing up was a yellow Labrador!). I told my mom that I wanted to be a vet when I was 6 years old…
I studied veterinary medicine at the University of Bristol. Somewhere along the way, research lit a fire under me, as did ophthalmology (the study of eyes), and I completed both a PhD in ophthalmology and a residency in veterinary ophthalmology. I have been working in a university setting since 2015, helping improve the health of companion animals, teaching veterinary students about eyes and vision, and researching how the health of dogs and their human caregivers changes as we age.
Why nosework?
I got my own dog, Tavish, in 2022. He was a high energy puppy and we got really into agility, as a way to exercise and have fun. After he got very sick in 2024, we had to give up agilty 🙁 I “found” nosework as a way to exercise his brain while his body healed.
We both fell in love with nosework. We could learn together, but I was the student, and Tavish the teacher. I delved into courses, workshops, seminars to learn more about the activity.
I started my nosework instructor training in 2026. The course takes up to 2 years to complete certification, and requires instructors to follow a proven method of instruction. I achieved “Associate Canine Nosework Instructor” status in July 2026, and am working toward the next steps in the coming months and years.
My canine companions
I share my life with one (soon to be two!) dogs. They enrich my life and I couldn’t imagine life without dogs!
Tavish
Tavish is a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever. His favorite toy is a blue hedgehog and his favorite food is…
…literally anything, particularly if it is stolen.
NACSW titles:
NW2, L1V, L1E, L2I
Tilda
Tilda is a Labrador Retriever. She will join the family in October 2026. Her favorite things are….TBD!
NACSW titles:
watch this space!
Yuki
Yuki is my elderly cat – she is kind of a dog herself! Her favorite things are napping, cuddling and eating 🙂
Want to connect?
I am only accepting limited numbers of students at present as I build up my skills. Fill out my interest form and I will reach out when I have additional offerings available!