Trainers: Katie Garton

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Katie Garton

Katie has been a member of H.S.D. (Hatfield) Dog Training Club since 2000. Besides currently holding the position of club treasurer she also conducts the puppy inductions & instructs the silver class.

Coming from a very animal orientated background, Katie has operated a successful petsitting/dogwalking business since 1998. After graduating from Essex University with a BSc Hon in 2002 she had built up a considerable client base.
"What started as a holiday job to help fund my degree had turned into a full time occupation."

Katie lives on a working farm with her partner Chris & son Charlie. They are currently owned by 5 dogs and also foster. The pair share their home with three German Short-haired Pointers: Meg; Todd (a Battersea rescue) and the youngest Marni. Then there are the golden oldies ... Harry (a Border Terrier) and Rosie a rescued Lurcher.
"Each & every one of my dogs is special to me and all of them different & unique."

Katie initially joined Hatfield eight years ago after she got her first German Short-haired Pointer.
"I grew up around GSP's and loved the breed. Chris & I already had two terriers before I got Lara, but I knew I had to wait until I was more settled before taking the plunge because they are a fairly difficult breed & need a job to do."
"Lara was not an easy dog when she came to me at seven months but blossomed into the most wonderful girl ... a true dog in a million. I looked into the Good Citizen Scheme because I thought it was a great foundation training. It addressed all the aspects you need to tackle for a well adjusted pet."

Katie went on to do obedience, conformation & some gundog work with Lara but really preferred doing the "fun stuff". We did numerous demonstrations for the Kennel Club, demonstrating the Gold level Good Citizen Scheme at events such as Discover Dogs and Crufts.
"We also got roped into various heelwork to music demos & canine games which, if I'm completely honest my dogs enjoyed most".

Katie very much enjoyed studying canine behaviour at university and decided to further her studies in this area. She is currently working towards an Advanced Diploma in Applied Canine Behaviour.
"I am a bit of a course junkie & have attended numerous courses over the last few years. I think it is important that any professional continues to broaden their skill base & gain further knowledge in their chosen discipline. For me it is important to have a good balance between practical and academic qualifications, it is also a fantastic way of keeping your mind open to new ideas."
"I was thrilled when Hatfield decided to send me on the British Institute of Professional Dog Trainers Summer Residential course where I was awarded a Grade II level pass. I enjoyed every minute & hope to return next year to attempt the higher level."

"I do not think it matters what activity people do with their dogs, that is down to personal choice, but what I do think is important is the relationship between dog & owner. The nice thing about the Good Citizen Scheme is that it focuses on all the areas of dog ownership which allow this partnership to grow. It is also a fantastic way of laying the building blocks whilst working towards a set of achievable & non-competitive awards. No matter which discipline you may wish to progress to it is a great foundation training where the emphasis is on enjoying your dog & the time you spend working with them."