MEET THE TEAM
Mary Storie
I am the founder and head trainer of K9 Focus & Fun.
I have been training dogs of all shapes and abilities for many years and I hold a qualification in dog behaviour and training gained through the National Dog Training Federation (NDTF). The NDTF Certificate III in Dog Behaviour and Training is Australia’s only government-approved and nationally recognised professional dog trainer certificate in Australia.
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In 2018 I successfully completed the Pro Dog Trainer course with Absolute Dogs, a world renowned UK based dog training organisation. I even travelled to the UK to train and learn from them personally.
I regularly attend seminars and workshops to increase my knowledge and skills and have access to a wide network of experienced trainers nationally and internationally.
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I hold a current Pet First Aid certificate, a Working with Children’s Check and a Police Check. I am a registered puppy carer for Seeing Eye Dogs Australia and a long time supporter of Assistance Dogs Australia.
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My life prior to dog training includes 30 years working in community organisations and the disability sector and I have a diploma in Social Welfare. I am a true believer that dogs can play a vital role in assisting people with disabilities and mental health issues to help them lead a more independent and fulfilled life.
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I am a member of 2 local obedience clubs and a regular volunteer as a class instructor where I teach all levels of obedience.
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My aim is to teach you and your dog the skills that allow you to get the most out of each other, while having a lot of fun. Focus is a critical part of this teaching. I believe that once you teach your dog to focus, everything else comes easy.
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Trilli
Trilli came to live with us at 11 weeks old from Seeing Eye Dogs Australia. Her future goal was to be trained as a guide dog. Unfortunately her health issues prevented her from going down this path, so I was lucky enough to be able to adopt her as a permanent family member. She is now 5 years old, has plenty of energy and always learning.
Gemma
Gemma was my right hand buddy and the inspiration for K9 Focus & Fun. She grew up with my 2 boys and pretty much did whatever she chose to do in her early years.
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Unfortunately she had an unpleasant experience when she was young which left her fearful and reactive towards other dogs. Then when she was about eight I discovered how I could teach her to trust me, not be so fearful and learn to accept that not all dogs were scary after all.
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Gemma had the freedom to run off lead and loved exploring the world with her nose. She loved coming on our camping holidays and was the best companion.
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Sadly Gemma passed away in February 2019. We miss her terribly.
Trilli has become a Story Dog in 2020 and she loves going to school to listen to the children reading.