My name is Penny Ashby, I have been been working on referral as an animal behaviourist since 2005. I am based in Surrey and hold consultations all over the south and south-east.

I have attained the following qualifications and affiliations:

• Degree in Psychology in 2002, my thesis was 'Innate and learned animal cognition

• Member of ICAN

• Member of the UK dog behaviour and training charter

• Candidate member of the Fellowship of Animal Behaviour Clinicians (FABC)

• COAPE diploma in canine and feline behaviour

• Post-graduate certificate in Applied Clinical Animal Behaviour

• Qualified veterinary nurse (RVN)

• Provisional member of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (APBC)

I have given numerous seminars to vets and veterinary nurses on topics such as 'Understanding canine and feline behaviour in the workplace', 'Puppy socialisation and habituation', also advising on how veterinary practices can be altered environmentally to improve the welfare of the animal and increase their positive experience.

I believe in using science based, learning theory and kind methods of training only, whereby force is never needed to address behavioural sensitivities. I particularly love helping anxious dogs, witnessing their renewed confidence and seeing the relationship between dog and guardian develop.

I currently live with my lurcher cross, who has come to me with dog sensitivity issues, and my cat Alan. All of my dogs to date have had behavioural complexities which I needed to help them with. So I have much empathy for all the lovely people I work with, I have been there and I know it can be tough!

I hope to start our journey together very soon

Penny