The first dogs I ever saw belonged to a neighbour. They were Standard Poodles called Billy and Biscuit and it was love at first sight. My family told me later that I was four or five when they passed away.

In 1962, while helping out weekends at the local Groomer/Kennels, I was given my first show dog. After finishing school I spent the next few years working in some of the top show kennels in the country, covering all the groups. I learned to groom all breeds, more about dog breeding and gained a lot of experience at shows.

In 1971 I got my first Standard Poodle and in 1980 I added the Bichon Frise to my kennel. I'm proud to have owned and/or bred Champions, including record holders and other significant show dogs of both breeds, in this country and abroad. I've also bred and exhibited Lhasa Apsos, Yorkshire Terriers, Papillons and Miniature Pinschers.

I'd started judging Poodles in the late 70s and by the mid 80s I was also doing all Toy breeds as well as others and was passed by the Kennel Club as a Championship Judge. I've judged at championship level on many occasions in the UK and America.

I've worked and studied extensively in the USA, grooming, training and handling at shows for several top establishments. In the UK I've judged professional grooming competitions and held workshops on preparing show dogs for exhibition as well as writing articles for leading dog magazines all over the world.

In the mid 90s I decided to take a break from active involvement in breeding and showing although I continue to accept occasional judging engagements and my interest in the world of show dogs remains the same.

Along the way I've done extensive research into training methods and canine behaviour while developing my own compassionate grooming and training techniques. I'm certified Advanced in Canine Communication.

I've taken part in numerous popular television programmes and live workshops demonstrating dog handling and grooming techniques for pet owners. Most recently I was on the panel of experts in Animal Planet's “ Animal Roadshow ” bringing help and advice to pet owners all over the U.K.

I continue my 40+ year career in dogs as a groomer and behavior therapist while sharing my life with two Parson Russell Terriers and a host of doggy friends, old and new...