Kristy, Harlow, Scout & Chip
Kristy’s journey as a professional dog trainer began in 2010 when she completed The Alpha Canine Group’s intensive 10-month training course, alongside her loyal companion, Ralph. To earn her certification, Kristy trained and handled over 250 dogs at The Alpha Canine Boarding Kennels in Victoria, mastering skills across breeds, temperaments, and behaviours.
Her lifelong love for dogs took a new turn in 2008 when she met Ralph, a puppy she simply couldn’t walk past in the pet store window! Determined to raise a well-mannered, socialised dog, Kristy enrolled in Alpha’s Puppy Preschool and never looked back. She continued training Ralph daily and even helped transform the behaviour of family dogs, Oliver and Frank, who had their own challenges.
In 2010, she expanded her expertise and became a certified Therapy Dog Handler through the Lead The Way program. This allowed her and Ralph to bring comfort and joy to schools, nursing homes, and hospitals, making a real difference in people’s lives. As a Primary and Secondary School Teacher, Kristy found her passion for working with therapy dogs in education, helping disengaged and struggling students thrive.
In 2011, Mind Your Paws was born! After relocating to Darwin in 2012, Kristy’s business flourished, offering:
Private 1:1 dog training for all ages and behavioural needs
Group classes
Therapy dog programs throughout the year
With years of hands-on experience, a heart full of passion, and a mission to help both dogs and humans, Kristy is here to transform the way you connect with your canine companion.
Ready to start your journey? Book a session with Kristy today!
Our Team
Harlow
Darwins Darling
Adopted at one year old, Harlow has been spreading joy since 2015. With her soft fleece coat and calm, affectionate nature, she’s a natural comforter. She loves to cuddle and get massages from anyone.
Certified as a Therapy Dog through Lead The Way in 2016, Harlow loves being part of school visits, showing off her trick skills, or simply snuggling up. She’s also trained and competed in Agility and Jumping, proving she’s as clever as she is cuddly.
Scout
The Northern Terror
Born in 2018, Scout is a lively Border Collie who’s always up for action. From eight weeks old, he’s been part of Mind Your Paws; learning to be both a great teammate and a well-mannered companion.
Certified as a Therapy Dog in 2019, Scout brings playful energy to his visits, especially with teens. When he’s not working, you’ll find him competing in Agility, Obedience, Rally, and Trick Dog events.
Chip
Cyclone Chip
Born in 2020, Chip is the smallest (and speediest) member of the team. Full of personality and always on the go, he’s often called the Energizer Bunny of Mind Your Paws.
Certified as a Therapy Dog in 2023, Chip brings big smiles with his playful nature, love for cuddles, and ever-growing list of clever tricks. Outside of visits, he competes in Agility, Jumping, Rally, and has recently added Mantrailing to his resume.
Where to next?
Whether you’re looking for support with your dog at home, or you’d like to explore what a therapy-dog visit could look like in your space, we’d love to hear from you.
We’ll help you figure out what’s possible, what’s practical, and what will make the biggest difference for you, your dog, and your community.