A CATTERICK dog trainer is hoping her new venture will be a success.

Fiona Kermode, 23, worked at Richmond's Abbey Mill Kennels until it closed.

She was determined to continue working with animals and has obtained a national diploma in dog training from a college in Cumbria and is launching dog training classes.

She said: "Like many qualified dog trainers these days, I do not believe in tough love.

"Even with breeds like German shepherds or dobermans, a disciplinarian approach is not always necessary.

"A reward-based system is much kinder and, in most cases, will get the same results."

She also has nationally recognised certificates in animal care and, once her training classes are established, she aims to become an accredited member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers.

She said: "Sessions will start with a getting-to-know-you period for the dogs before we get into any serious training.

"We take any breed of any age. You really can teach old dogs new tricks."

The Happy To Heel Dog School will meet regularly at Tunstall Village Hall, near Richmond.

To enrol, call 07870 237824.