Sophie Henshall  

Owner of Helping Paws Assistance & Training

I have been passionate about dogs for as long as I can remember, but my journey into dog training truly began at home. I first discovered my love for training while teaching my senior dog tricks to keep him mentally stimulated and engaged. What started as a simple enrichment activity quickly grew into a deep fascination with canine learning, behaviour, and the science behind effective training.

This passion led me to pursue a Bachelor of Science (Animal Behaviour), where I further developed my understanding of how dogs learn and interact with their environment. Alongside my studies, I trained my own puppy as an assistance dog. Through dedication and hands-on experience, he became fully accredited and accompanied me to university, giving me invaluable real-world insight into advanced training, behaviour management, and the importance of clear communication and trust.

For me, training is not just about teaching behaviours; it’s about strengthening the relationship between dog and owner. I aim to empower owners with the knowledge and skills they need to feel confident, while ensuring dogs feel safe, supported, and motivated to learn.

My goal is to create lasting change through positive experiences that allow both dogs and their people to thrive together.