Who is The Dog Witch?
At the tender age of 16, I embarked on a challenging yet rewarding path within the healthcare system. After leaving home early and facing academic hurdles, I was determined to carve out a meaningful career. Over the years, I gained invaluable experience working with individuals with neurodiverse needs, in secure units, and in assisted living environments. My specialisations in communication, education, and advocacy played a crucial role in supporting individuals through their rehabilitation journeys. Life took a profound turn when I spent three years providing palliative care for my mother-in-law. This deeply personal experience ignited a passion in me to pursue a new vocation as a dog behaviourist in Devon.
Once I began my career with dogs, I haven't stopped learning, studying, and collaborating and discovering an academic side I never knew I had. This journey has been filled with opportunities to expand my knowledge and connect with other professionals in the field of canine care.
I share my life with my wonderful husband, Andrew, and our delightful menagerie. We live on my mum's beautiful farm in Devon, surrounded by nature and a host of beloved animals. Among our family members are three rescue Spanish Podencos: Harry, Dustin, and Mathilda, as well as a wild rat named Widget. The farm is also home to my mum's cat, aptly named Mouse, and her lovely old girl, Flo.
My passion for dogs and family is at the heart of everything I do, but my love for food is equally significant. Cooking has always been a way for me to nourish both body and soul, and I find joy in preparing meals for our entire household—dogs, humans, and rats alike. I love to grow as much of our food as possible, particularly herbs, which I incorporate into our daily lives.
Foraging is another of my cherished activities, and I am grateful for Andrew's extensive knowledge of wild plants. His background in wildlife conservation, where he graduated with top honours, further fuels our shared commitment to living harmoniously with nature. We both share a love for travel, often leaving beautiful Devon during the wetter seasons to explore Europe with our entire family, rats and all.
Whether it's an adventure abroad or a cosy rainy day on the sofa with a film and dog snuggles, I find joy in every moment. I am an avid fan of film, sci-fi, and fantasy, and I believe that art offers as much insight into life as science does.
Thank you for being a part of our journey. Together, we can explore the wonders of holistic care and enhance the lives of our beloved dogs, rats, and all.
Qualifications
Rebecca Hanlon is A Dog behaviourist in Devon and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the field of canine behaviour and welfare. She is also A tutor For The DoGenius Institute run by the prestigious Dr Teresa Tyler, Where she tutors upcoming Dog Trainers and behavioural Practitioners.
Here are her notable qualifications:
Level 6 Diploma in Canine Behaviour and Psychology with the ISCP: This advanced qualification showcases Rebecca's expertise in understanding and addressing complex canine behaviours.
Master Course - Aggression in Dogs with Michael Shikashio: A specialized course focusing on managing and transforming aggressive behaviours in dogs.
Level 5 Ofqual Diploma for Canine Behaviour Practitioners with The DoGenius Institute: An in-depth program that further solidifies Rebecca's skills in behaviour modification and canine psychology.
Tutored the Level 3 Diploma in Canine Nutrition with The DoGenius: Rebecca has not only learned but also shared her knowledge, guiding others in canine nutrition.
The Science and Art of Herbalism with Rosemary Gladstar: Comprehensive training in herbalism, adding a holistic approach to her practice.
Level 4 Diploma in Teaching and Education: This qualification enhances Rebecca's ability to educate and train both dogs and their humans effectively.
Member of The Foundations of Canine Essential 101 | BHARCS: Part of a prestigious community focused on canine behaviour through the eyes of street dogs.
Level 3 Diploma in Animal Welfare and Behaviour with Compass: A foundational qualification that underpins Rebecca's understanding of animal welfare and behaviour.
Level 2 Accredited Dog Trainer with Sarah Whitehead: Recognition from a renowned expert in dog training.
NVQ 3 in Health and Social Care: This qualification adds a human health and welfare perspective to her approach, enriching her understanding of behaviour from a holistic standpoint.
Varied Certificates Over Three Decades: Rebecca's dedication to continuous learning is evident through numerous certifications in areas such as Mental Health Capacity Act, Autism, Maybo Training (Personal Safety & Conflict Management), Communication, Epilepsy, Herbalism, Zoopharmacognosy, Puppy Behavior and Welfare.
Rebecca has also attended hundreds of conferences, talks, workshops, and CPD sessions, and is an avid reader, constantly seeking to expand her knowledge and stay updated with the latest research and practices. Rebecca's qualifications and continuous pursuit of knowledge ensure she provides the highest level of care and expertise to address the unique challenges faced by dogs and their humans.
Maggie
“I attended my very first Dog Training Course with Rebecca and loved every minute of it. Rebecca is an excellent teacher, she is very knowledgeable, and experienced and has a beautiful, loving and empathetic approach to dogs which really stood out for me. I've learned so much from her and changed some of my old beliefs and methods. I am looking forward to doing more training courses and learning more from her.”
