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Brigitte’s Dog School – Melton, Deanside, Caroline Springs, Fraser Rise, Aintree & Surrounds

About Brigitte – Owner of Brigittes Dog School

Dogs have been at the centre of my life for as long as I can remember.   As an NDTF‑qualified trainer and an accredited member of the Australian Association of Professional Dog Trainers (AAPDT), I am committed to providing ethical, evidence‑based training that supports both dogs and their families.

My training journey began with a passion for helping dogs feel understood, confident, and capable in everyday life. Over the years, I’ve worked with puppies, adolescent dogs, adult dogs, and dogs needing specialised support. My approach is gentle, practical, and designed to help owners feel supported every step of the way.

In addition to running Brigitte’s Dog School, I am also the co‑owner of Melton Assistance Dogs Pty Ltd, where I guide dogs and handlers through the early foundations required for future Assistance Dog work. This includes calm behaviour, environmental neutrality, engagement, and early task development — all taught with patience, clarity, and positive, ethical methods.

Whether you’re raising a new puppy, improving your dog’s manners, or preparing for the Assistance Dog pathway, my mission is to help you and your dog learn together in a supportive, encouraging environment.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to support dogs and their owners with gentle, effective training that builds trust, confidence, and lifelong skills. We believe every dog deserves clear guidance and every owner deserves support, so we focus on real‑world manners, calm behaviour, and strengthening the bond between you and your dog.

Meet the Team

⭐ Cathie – Instructor at Brigitte’s Dog School

(Accredited Member of Australian Association of Professional Dog Trainers)

Cathie has been part of Brigitte’s Dog School since 2012 and remains one of our most dedicated and experienced instructors. She was among the very first dog owners to attend the school, bringing along her dog, Kyah. From the beginning, Cathie showed a natural aptitude for training — her calm manner, strong communication skills, and genuine enthusiasm quickly stood out.

Her commitment to learning, her ability to connect with both dogs and owners, and her consistent reliability made her an obvious choice to join the team as an instructor. Over the years, Cathie has supported countless families through their training journey, offering clear guidance, patience, and a warm, encouraging presence in every class she teaches.

Cathie continues to be an invaluable part of Brigitte’s Dog School, bringing experience, compassion, and a deep understanding of real‑world dog behaviour to our programs.

Currently, Cathie leads our Basic Classes, where she teaches essential foundation skills to both dogs and their owners with clarity, patience, and confidence. She also manages the Assistance Dog Training Program — a vital initiative supporting members of the local community who experience severe anxiety or PTSD. Through her dedication and expertise, Cathie has made a significant and lasting difference in the lives of many individuals and their canine partners.

⭐ Prue – Instructor at Brigitte’s Dog School

(Accredited Member of Australia Association of Professional Dog Trainers)

Prue has successfully completed the Certificate III in Dog Training with the National Dog Trainers Federation (NDTF), demonstrating her commitment to professional development and best‑practice, ethical training methods.

Roles and Responsibilities

At Brigitte’s Dog School, Prue is responsible for running one of our 10‑Week Obedience Classes as well as the Advanced Class, where she guides dogs and owners through higher‑level skills with confidence and clarity. She also leads the Assistance Dog Training Program, supporting members of the local community living with severe anxiety or PTSD. Through her dedication, professionalism, and calm teaching style, Prue has made a meaningful difference in the lives of many individuals and their canine partners.

 

⭐ Denis – Instructor at Brigitte’s Dog School

(Accredited Member of Australia Association of Professional Dog trainers)

Background and Experience

Denis joined Brigitte’s Dog School in 2020, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his previous work with several dog training organisations, including All Paws Forward. Before becoming part of our team, Denis successfully completed the Top Dog Course, further strengthening his skills, knowledge, and practical understanding of effective dog training.

Role at Brigitte’s Dog School

Denis is responsible for running our Puppy and Socialisation Classes, where his calm manner and extensive background create a positive learning environment for young dogs and their owners. His experience across multiple dog schools has made him a valuable and trusted member of our team, ensuring high‑quality training and supportive, confidence‑building experiences for every puppy that attends his classes.