Hi I’m Rachel the owner of North Dog

I have been around dogs all my life, firstly two wonderful Border Collies and then my beloved German Shepherds, Shane, Heidi and most recently Roxy, they have all taught me so much. Over the last 12 years I’ve been working For Northumbria Police Dog Section as a kennel attendant.

During that time I looked after countless dogs from tiny puppies, boisterous adolescents and mature dogs coming up to retirement. Caring for several breeds, spaniels, Labradors, German Shepherds, Belgian Shepherds, Dutch Herders as well as the occasional cross breed. I also helped run the Northumbria Police breeding and rehoming programmes which was extremely rewarding. Particularly fulfilling was being entrusted to look after Heidi and then Roxy both from the breeding programme on behalf of the dog section, many of Heidi’s puppies are still serving Police Dogs.

I gained a great deal of experience

caring for sick and injured dogs and those with challenging behavioural issues, many dogs came from rescue shelters or were donated from family homes where they could no longer be looked after. All of the dogs I looked after over the years were extremely special and many I knew from the day they were born until they retired and we were all part of one big family.

Prior to this I worked in a busy private boarding kennels and cattery, as well as the huge variety of dogs and cats we also catered for smaller pets such as rabbits, Guinea pigs, rats and birds.

I am passionate

about animals and especially love all things dog. I have studied canine behaviour through COAPE College and have a certificate in canine whelping and have regularly studied canine first aid. I have a strong interest in canine nutrition and a love of dog training particularly clicker training. I keep my knowledge up to date on dog related issues by attending seminars and courses.

I have a love of hill walking particularly in rural Northumberland and the West coast of Scotland, an experience always improved with a dog for company and where my idea for adventure treks was born. Please check out my gallery page to see why.

NorthDog is fully insured with Pet Plan Sanctuary, I am DBS (police checked) and have references available.

I can guarantee that every animal under my care would be looked after as if it were my own.