Meet the trainers…
Karen Henley
Karen is a Professional Certified Dog Trainer (VSA-CDT)
Certified Separation Anxiety (SA) Pro Trainer
Pro Dog Trainer - Absolute dogs
Puppy Start Right Instructor - Karen Pryor Academy
Fear Free Certified Trainer
Scentwork UK approved Trainer
Pro Instructor with UK Hoopers
Rachel Bean First Aid Trained
I’ve been mad about animals since I can remember, a passion I share with my parents and particularly my nan and grandad. I had dogs and cats as child and have always ridden horses. When I left school, I went to Rodbaston Agricultural College and did a two-year animal care course. Alongside this I worked in a veterinary hospital, which I loved, I was going to train as veterinary nurse. But life happens and I decided to train as a human nurse which has led to a long and very fulfilling career in critical care and most recently vocational rehabilitation.
My journey into dog training really began when I adopted Rupert and Mila. They both came with difficult beginnings, with Mila being particularly challenging (I was her third home not including foster and kennels). I found it difficult to get consistent advice and began reading books on dog behaviour and training. I bought Victoria Stillwell’s book ‘Train Your Dog Positively’ and there was a passage in it that just resonated with me. I noticed that she ran a training academy and after much research started my training in August 2018. It was the most amazing course, I learnt so much and met the most wonderful people and dogs. I was thrilled to learn that I passed with distinction in March 2019.
I am passionate about dogs and I’m sure you will enjoy training with me. My aim is to make dog training fun and build happy and lasting relationships for you and your dog.
I live in Kinver with my two dogs, two cats and my partner Paul.
"Brilliant!"
“Karen was professional and very friendly, Holly took to her immediately and the experience was so much fun and enjoyable, she did not realise that the fun she was having was in fact training, brilliant. Will definitely be recommending Karen!”
Elle Green
Elle has a BSc hons undergraduate degree in animal sciences from the University of Lincoln.
She has trained with The School of Canine Science
Fenzi Dog Sports Academy
Susan Garrett
Suzanne Clothier
Absolute Dogs
Rachel Bean First Aid
I studied animal sciences at The University of Lincoln and after graduating taught science in secondary schools. Over ten years ago I established a dog & horse care business, working as a freelance groom, dog walker & pet sitter. Alongside this I also worked in a busy veterinary practice.
After eight successful years I switched to focus solely on canines and used my knowledge of learning theory from university as well as my years of practical experience to help clients deal with reactive dogs and those with recall & loose-lead walking problems. My aim has always been helping pets and their families to lead harmonious lives as a team.
Throughout my career I have valued continuous professional development, studying and learning broadly. My formal education in animal sciences and continuing study enable me to merge experience and scientific research to deliver practical and effective training, based on sound principles.
I really enjoy the scientific, mechanical elements of training and specialise in puppies and general obedience training.
I share my life with my partner Tim, our cat, horse, pony, and an adolescent German Shepherd puppy called Kind. Kind is a working-line GSD and I hope to compete with her in a variety of dog sports as she matures; we are currently very much enjoying Hoopers!
"Care and effort"
“I can’t thank Bark-ology’s trainer Elle enough for the care and effort she helped to train myself and puppy Indi. She’s helped us bond and taught us the benefits of training initially through one to ones and puppy classes.
It’s been the most rewarding experience for us both and we are looking forward to plenty more workshops and classes”