Martine arrived at Point Cook Dog Training in 2017, not as a trainer or animal handler but as a client. She put her very shy German Shepherd pup through our Puppy Classes and soon took a real liking to the concept of force free training. Martine loved the methodology, to be kind, to teach your dog what you need and to respect their needs too.
Martine, by trade was a chef, working in the hospitality industry for many years but she was starting to burn out.
An opportunity arose where we needed a new day care handler and Martine rose to the occasion. We were looking for someone who could tolerate being on their feet all day as well as someone who was keen to learn about dogs and more importantly, have fun hanging out with them!
Not shy about putting in long hours and dealing with high pressure situations, Martine slotted in beautifully and within a couple of months of learning the ropes in managing a dog day care centre, she had it all in order and took the role on with such enthusiasm.
Martine was quick to grasp the know hows of dogs, play styles, dog behaviour, management of dog groups as well as all the roles required in reception and she has never looked back since.
The clients at day care love her and the dogs adore her and they are always so excited to run into the centre to greet her. Her passion and genuine love for them all shines and we are so lucky to have her on board.
Martine is our senior day care handler, a Puppy Class instructor, does private lessons and is also a mindDog trainer.
Martine can be seen here with her German Shepherd, Sasha.