Soon after beginning this journey, Danielle discovered that Crosby was suffering from degenerative vision loss and by the time he turned 4 years old he was completely blind. This made the game of Nose Work even more meaningful – Crosby adapted to his life of blindness remarkably well but scent training was able to give him an enriched, fulfilling activity that satisfied the drives and energy of a typical young, bouncy lab. Crosby played Nose Work games with joy and enthusiasm right up until he died in 2022. Along the way he competed in ACSW and ANKC competitions several times and received placings at every trial he attended.

Danielle has been attending K9 Nose Time classes for several years and has enjoyed learning from all of the wonderful instructors. She is currently training her 7-year-old Golden Retriever Rory and 1-year-old working Cocker Spaniel Nettle (along with Pippin who is now handled by her sister Natalie).

Danielle firmly believes that not only does Nose Work provide an invaluable outlet to fulfil and enrich dogs’ lives, it is centred around creating amazing teamwork and mutual communication between dogs and humans. And it is so much fun!

Outside of Nose Work, Danielle trained as a psychologist and is currently a Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA), who offers puppy classes and private training for behavioural issues. She is also a Deputy Chief Instructor at Brush Farm Dog Training Club where she teaches puppies and obedience classes. She will be completing her CNWI qualifications in the near future.

Relevant Education
Master of Psychology (Clinical)
TAFE Statement of Attainment in Dog Training
Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CCPDT)
Completion of Dr Susan Friedman’s Living and Learning with Animals course
Completion of Michael Shikashio’s Aggression in Dogs Master Course
Various continuing education opportunities (including Clicker Expos, Control Unleashed Conference/seminars and many Fenzi Dog Sports Academy courses)