Renee Rhoades

I acquired my first dog at the age of 4. Born to a stray dog in my aunt’s back yard, Sparky and I were fast friends. When he died I was devastated, but his presence in my life started me on a lifetime path of dedication to dogs I am forever grateful for.

I began working with dogs when I was 14, volunteering at my local ASPCA. Wanting to do more to help dogs I became a Certified Veterinary Technician (Nurse) for a number of years before taking a more direct interest in dog behaviour and training.

In 2013 I started my journey back into formal education, studying an Animal Management and Behaviour BSc at Sparsholt College. Wishing to have a canine-specific degree I am currently studying a Level 6 Advanced Diploma with The International School for Canine Psychology & Behaviour Ltd (ISCP). My next goal once finishing my ADip is a Masters in Canine Behaviour. Alongside my structured education, Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is one of my passions as it ensures I am always using modern and correct practices with your dog. You will find my various certificates in the CPD album on my Facebook page.

Alongside my 20+ years of hands-on experience in working together with dogs, I am:

A Fear Free® Certified Professional Trainer
An Approved Instructor with The Dog Training College
A Moderator for the Do No Harm Dog Training Group which follows the Hierarchy of Dog Needs
Routinely endorsed and receive referrals from other professionals in the field of behaviour and training
The only referral behaviourist and trainer used by Pet Doctors Isle of Wight
Recommended by other veterinary practices, groomers, dog sitters and dog walkers in my area

And a proud member of these ethical organisations:

The Pet Professional Guild
The International Companion Animal Network
Dog Welfare Alliance
Certified member of Dr Ian Dunbar's Dog Training and Behaviour Academy (SIRIUS ®)

R+Dogs started in 2018 by me and supplies training and behaviour options to you in person, online and through go at your own pace courses. While I am physically based on the Isle of Wight for 1:1 in-person assistance my virtual sessions for training and behaviour are open dogs and their humans both in the UK and US.

I specialise in reactivity, aggression, separation anxiety, puppy coaching and enrichment. When I train I only ever use positive, reward-based methods built around a solid framework of ethics and science. My ultimate goal is for you and your dog to have the best relationship possible and I strongly feel that a solid relationship starts out with an understanding of what your dog needs from you, their human. When dogs talk, we listen.

I look forward to helping you and your dog have the best relationship possible.

It is my profession, but more importantly, it is my passion.

Our accreditations & memberships