We recognise that just like people, not all dogs are the same. All Leaps & Bounds lessons are tailored to the client and focus on bringing out the best in every dog. Leaps & Bounds is also able to arrange on-site home visits to help you get the most out of our training services.
As well as training and classes, Leaps & Bounds offers special, one-off agility and training clinics with interstate trainers on specialist topics. In 2019 we also established a calendar of days out for breed enthusiasts – these events are a fun way to socialise with similarly minded dog owners and we look forward to being able to share the dates for our 2020 breed days soon.
Alf was rescued from a less than ideal situation and suffered from fear and anxiety as a result. Through Kathy’s perseverance and training Alf has blossomed into a confident and beloved family member over the past 8 years – even daring to compete in dog sports!
The reward of working with Alf encouraged Kathy to pursue studies in animal behaviour and training and eventually establish Leaps & Bounds. Kathy and her husband Patrick live on the beautiful West Tamar with their four dogs, Sadie, Alf, Doug and Ned.
"Our puppy mini schnauzer "Snowy" and I had a zoom lesson this morning.
Was really good, and I got as much out of it as I would have if I attended in person, except I wouldn't have worn an onesie to a live class." -
"Today I had a zoom session with Kathy due to Covid -19 restrictions. I was unsure what to expect and wondering how beneficial it would be. So WORTH IT! Kathy really understood what I needed help with and provided achievable and relevant advice.
She made sure I understood the information that she was giving me, showed me real time examples with her own dog and provided real time feedback. It was great being able to stay at home and have this session, in fact I think it was just as good as what meeting face to face would have been.
I have done a lot of research regarding my dog and training and Kathy was still able to provide me with individualised tips/advice/knowledge that I was not aware of. Highly recommend giving it a go."
"My puppy was 12 weeks old when we found Kathy. I wanted a professional trainer that could help me train my pup to be an Assistance Dog. Kathy helped with this and so much more. Kathy's professionalism, kind manner and knowledge gave me the confidence to train my pup the skills she needed - to be the helper I wanted. Her knowledge on dog behaviour was most helpful. I highly recommend Leaps & Bounds Dog Training.
Thank You so much for everything you did for me and Gurtie, she absolutely loved coming to you, you made it fun for both of us."
(Sadly, Gurtie passed away unexpectedly in April 2020 due to suspected brain tumour). We all loved Gurtie and were very sad to hear this news.
"Kathy has been a fantastic support to us when training Guinness. Her classes are fun and interactive for the puppies. We have got so much out of it already."
- Maeve Mckenna
"Kathy is such a lovely and caring lady! She has not only taught our border collie x Smithfield, but us as owners as well. Always an enjoyable time learning and spending quality time with our dog.
In 4 weeks, a big improvement has been made, all thanks to the classes. Will definitely come back for more in the future and recommending to others." -
Taylor Lincoln
"Kathy is clearly very passionate about helping dogs and humans alike. We have learned so much about Peppa's behaviours already after 2 consults and feel that we have a much clearer idea of how to work on her focus and reactive issues. Training is fun and already we can see some baby steps in the right direction for our girl." - Rebecca Clarkson
"Very patient and knowledgeable. Definite passion for all dogs! Highly recommend contacting Kathy for any help and advice."