ABOUT our school
Welcome to our Dog School! We're a passionate facility that knows how important it is to give your beloved canines a top-notch training experience. Since 2021, we've been all about creating a structure daycare that revolves around dog training. We want your dogs to have a blast while getting the best care and education possible. We also offer puppy training, group classes, and behaviour modification for all dogs.
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Enrichment and biological fulfillment are the heart and soul of our training philosophy. We believe in addressing dogs' natural instincts and needs, giving them a controlled and positive outlet to express themselves. Our carefully designed activities and exercises challenge them mentally, provide physical outlets, and offer social interactions, so they can lead happy and fulfilling lives.
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Whether your dog is a curious pup just starting their training journey or an older companion looking for further development, our dog school is here to support you every step of the way. Our goal is to help your dogs reach their full potential and strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend.
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Join us on this incredible adventure! Discover the power of our programs and witness the joy of seeing your dogs thrive.
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Get in touch with us today to explore our wide range of training options and be part of the 4 Paws Community. We can't wait to welcome you!
meet the pack
lexi
founder
Hey there! I'm Lexi, and I'm proud to be the founder of 4 Paws. My love for animals, especially dogs, has been a part of me for as long as I can remember. During high school, I couldn't resist delving deeper into my passion. While pursuing a Certificate in Animal Studies at Tafe, I dedicated my weekends to volunteering at veterinary clinics. After completing high school, I took a detour into the commerce field during my time at university and landed a "normal" job.
However, my heart yearned for something more fulfilling. In 2015, I took a leap of faith and started 4 Paws Pet Care initially as a dog walking service to fill the void of not having my own furry companion while working in the dental industry. It didn't take long for me to realise that there weren't many appealing options for pet owners when they needed to go away. Traditional kennels didn't always fit the bill. And so, I expanded my services to include pet sitting, doggy daycare, and dog boarding, providing a personalised and comfortable experience for furry friends while their humans were away.
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Through my own adoption journey with my first dog and heart dog, Ajana from Fetching Dogs Rescue, I discovered a community of rescuers, foster carers, and past adopters—what we fondly call the "Fetching Family." Naturally, I couldn't resist getting involved myself! Since then, I've been fostering puppies and witnessing the incredible impact we can have on their lives during their critical development period. It's not always easy to say goodbye when they find their forever homes, but knowing that I've brought happiness to both the puppies and their new families makes it all worthwhile. After all, I can't keep them all (even though I'd love to)!
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In my pursuit of knowledge and expertise, I obtained a Certificate III in Dog Behaviour and Training from the National Dog Training Federation in early 2017, becoming a qualified dog trainer. In addition to offering training services through 4 Paws Pet Care, I also contribute as a dog trainer for a local business, where instructed group classes for pet dogs, as well as becoming head training coordinator for a local dog sport club. To stay at the forefront of advancements in the field, I actively attend seminars, workshops, and network with fellow trainers and behaviourists.
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Recognising the crucial role nutrition plays in a dog's well-being, I enrolled in an accredited Canine Health & Nutrition course. I firmly believe in a holistic approach to training, understanding that we are what we eat. If you ever need advice or guidance on nutrition, don't hesitate to reach out—I'm always here to help!
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When I'm not busy caring for other people's pets, you'll find me immersed in more dog-related activities. Training my own dogs is not just a hobby, but a genuine passion. Joy, one of my working line German Shepherds, competes in IGP (Schutzhund) and GRC. Through these sports, she excels in precision obedience, tracking, protection work, weightpull and mill racing. Joy also has multiple titles, including a BH, SR1, SR2, MR1 and on her way to WP1.
As for my new German Shepherd, Puppy, she's still discovering her path, but she loves everything she tries. We currently train at our club, K9 Sports Illawarra, where I am currenly the head trainer.
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As I continue embarking on new adventures, my goal remains the same: to enhance the lives of our canine companions. I hope that my journey and experiences can contribute to improving the lives of your pets too. Feel free to reach out anytime—I'm here to help!
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Lucy
assistant manager
Hi there! I’m Lucy
My journey with dogs began when I completed my Certificate II in animal studies. It was during this time that I realised my true passion lay in working with these incredible creatures. In a major career shift, I transitioned from being a social worker to working in the dog industry.
Animals, in general, have always fascinated me, and the deep connections we form with them are truly remarkable. I wanted to delve deeper into the world of dog training to better understand their behaviour and build that incredible companionship we share with them. It's simply amazing to witness the bond that can develop between humans and dogs.
While I don't have a dog of my own at home, I have a beautiful tabby cat named Charlie who is my little sidekick.
Working at 4 Paws has been a truly fortunate opportunity for me. In my time here, I’ve worked my way up to being the Assistant Manager and have had the privilege of attending seminars and webinars, including one by Jay Jack, which has further fuelled my desire to pursue a career in dog training.
shannon
tal
trainer
Hi, I'm Tal!
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I’ve been a part of the 4 Paws team since the beginning of 2022 and have loved every moment. My love for animals runs deep, and I've had the privilege of growing up on a farm surrounded by a diverse array of animals, spending the majority of my time in the stables.
From an early age, I felt a special connection with our dogs. It was this deep bond that sparked my desire to become a dog trainer.
In 2019, I made a life-changing decision to pursue a career change from skydiving to dog training. I spent two years volunteering and working at a local shelter and dedicated myself to learning and honing my skills, earning my Certificate III in dog training and Behavior, as well as my Certificate II in animal studies.
When I'm not working, you can often find me immersed in nature, and, of course, I always make time to snuggle up with my beloved cat, Taco.