Meet Alison

Qualified Dog Behaviour Specialist

Hi, I'm Alison ...

Supporting families and social care teams within child fostering and adoption

 

My journey into dog behaviour

I specialise in providing dog behaviour assessments that focus on identifying potential risks and offering practical, evidence-based recommendations to support safe and successful family placements.

My career journey took an unexpected, yet incredibly rewarding, turn. I began my professional life in human resources straight out of university, but a sabbatical to travel the world changed everything. During that time, my passion for animals was ignited, inspiring me to leave the corporate world behind and retrain in animal behaviour.

Gone are the suits and office meetings, replaced by dog hair, wagging tails, and the joy of helping dogs and families feel safe and happy together.

Experience you can trust

Since 2010, I’ve worked with dogs of all breeds and sizes, including over a decade spent running puppy classes in Lincoln. During this time, I’ve supported many pet owners in understanding and addressing their dog’s behaviour, helping to build stronger, more harmonious relationships.

Creating safer homes for children and dogs

I’m deeply committed to helping families create safe, loving environments where both dogs and children can thrive.

Why this work matters

I truly believe that dogs can bring comfort, companionship, and happiness to a child’s life … and I’m dedicated to ensuring they live together safely and happily.

Alison Winters

Specialist pet assessments

If you’re an assessment, fostering or adoption social worker and need help or advice with a dog owning family, get in touch today! I provide risk assessments within a 2-hour commute of Lincoln (LN3), and will have my report with you within 7 days.

I’ve you’re a prospective adoptive parent or foster carer I can support you too!

Click the button below for ways to contact me.

3rd November 2012.Bishop Burton College graduation at the Beverley Minster

Academic Qualifications

MSc in Clinical Animal Behaviour from University of Lincoln

FdSc in Canine Behaviour and Training from Bishop Burton College

MSc in Occupational Psychology from University of Hertfordshire 

BA (hons) in Sociology and Psychology from University of Northampton 

APBC pet dog assessments for children

Professional Memberships

Full Member of the APBC – Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors 

An ABTC Registered Clinical Animal Behaviourist

An ABTC Registered Animal Training Instructor

Full Member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT UK Member 01128)

happy dog

Assessment Methods

Ethical and compassionate 

Reward-based techniques (using food and play) 

Why Choose Me?