Gemma Smith, Head Coach
Before joining Dog School, Gemma worked in the behaviour and training team at another rescue and rehoming centre where she worked closely with the dogs who needed extra support and training before finding their forever homes. She was also involved in training and coaching staff and volunteers. Whilst working at the rescue centre, Gemma fostered 14 dogs & puppies (and helped to hand rear 5 kittens) so has experienced most of the common challenges that come with owning dogs and puppies first-hand! Gemma rehomed her own dog, Mabel, from Dogs Trust Canterbury and has even been to Dog School with her so she knows just how helpful the classes are during those sensitive, early weeks.
Gemma has a BSc in Animal Behaviour and Welfare and enjoys using her knowledge and experience to help owners train their dogs in a fun and positive way.
Amy Lewis, Senior Coach
Amy has always loved animals. She studied BSc in Animal Science at Writtle University College and although her studies mostly focused on farm and zoo animals, she particularly enjoys adapting and applying training techniques to different species to better understand how they learn. Amy spends her spare time training her house rabbit, and building new enrichment toys to keep him busy and learning during the day!
Amy aspires to help dog owners better understand their pets, and use that understanding in training and play to improve their bond.
Chloe Southby, Coach
Before joining Dog School, Chloe worked at a local Farm Park developing her customer service skills as well as growing her love for animals. Her love for dogs started when she rescued her 6-month-old, now late, Collie X German Shepard in 2000. They formed a close bond and Chloe is eager to help others build a strong and lasting relationship with their dogs.
Chloe has always been a supporter of animal welfare charities, particularly Dogs Trust and when she saw the chance to become part of the Coaching Team, she knew she had to seize the opportunity. She is looking forward to combining something she loves whilst making a difference to families and their dogs.
In her spare time Chloe enjoys horse riding and dancing. She is looking to adopt a rescue dog in the coming months.