Welcome to Paws ‘n’ Heal, where your hairy, four legged bestie will receive high quality and efficient care. We are passionate and committed to providing up to date, accredited, insured and knowledgeable services. Whether you’re a new puppy parent that needs guidance, or an owner with an older rescue that’s struggling to fit in, we have you covered.
We care about your furry friend’s well-being, and this isn’t just limited to a happy brain. We also provide Canine Sports Massage services to keep them in great shape.
Rochelle Chetwynd – Director
My story
From Bali to Wigan. It’s fair to say the journey has been a colourful one. My passion for dogs was ignited when I was living overseas and a tiny, mangy Doberman puppy appeared at my door.
I was a first time dog owner with no experience outside of childhood, family pets. Xena came from unknown breeding and her background is still a mystery. Consequently, as she aged out it became apparent that she had issues to address.
Knowing what I know now, she shows a lot of signs of coming out of a puppy farm. She lacks a lot of basic social skills and experiences a lot of anxiety in certain situations. It was a complete baptism of fire as we grew together, but she taught me an unbelievable amount, whilst I took on teaching her.
Xena was soon joined by a little dog found on the street called Pumba, and I got involved with local rescue. Scrappy street dogs with a variety of genetics, experiences, and often, trauma. When I moved back home to the UK with Xena, Pumba and a later addition; Bindi, in tow, I knew I wanted to pursue my desire to help dogs further.
In 2019, I enrolled on a Canine Sport Massage Course, passing with Distinction and started the process towards becoming qualified in Canine Behaviour. Whilst I had dealt with plenty of ‘difficult’ dogs, I wanted to truly understand the science behind my experiences. I completed my Level 4 and then my Level 5 in Canine Behaviour Management, passing both with Merit and, in 2024, achieved my goal of becoming an IMDT accredited Dog Training Instructor, again with Merit.
Xena is an old lady now. She curls up on the sofa, and would struggle to run for miles along the beach as she once did. She’s oblivious to how much she changed the direction of my life but that she has. Paws ‘n’ Heal is more than a business, it’s the culmination of nearly a decade of learning, adapting, improvising and bucket-loads of love for our canine pals. It’s driven by an ambition to help improve the lives of dogs and their owners. When you book with Paws ‘n’ Heal, you can do so safely in the knowledge that all solutions will be kind, sympathetic, effective, and will meet the needs of everyone involved.
Classes
Frequently asked questions
What type of training do you provide?
We provide training utilising positive reinforcement. We are against the use of aversives and will not promote the use of e-collars, prong collars, grots or similar tools to teach your dog new tricks. As an Institute of Modern Dog Trainers accredited trainer, Paws ‘n’ Heal follows a strict code of ethics laid out by the IMDT which can be found here.
How many sessions will I need?
It really depends on the dog and the severity of the issue however, progress can be achieved with every session.
Do you solve every problem?
We’re committed to giving 100% to every dog that needs our help. Despite extensive experience and knowledge, there may be an enquiry that is beyond our remit. We are happy, and able to refer to a pool of positive minded professionals with more relevant expertise should this be the case. A refund would be issued in this instance.
What breeds do you accept?
We accept all dogs and have a particular interest in primitive breeds and adult rescues.
Can I enrol my XL bully in your courses?
We welcome XL bullies and are insured to work with them under the following requirements:-
- We would require a copy of their exemption certificate and third party liability insurance before enrolment.
- They are welcome to participate in classes but they would be required to be on lead and muzzled at all times.
- We can provide 1-2-1 training for unmuzzled and unleashed dogs subject to appropriate assessment in client’s homes or at secure fields.
- Dogs are required to be neutered and microchipped
What age can I enrol my puppy?
Training can start at any age. Group classes would require puppies to have finished their vaccination program, but 1-2-1 sessions can be carried out at home from as soon as they arrive.
What if I want to cancel?
We require payment for all sessions at least 48 hours before booking. Should you wish to cancel, we require 24 hours notice and a full refund will be issued for this. A 50% refund would be issued for any cancellations within this 24 hour notice period. Refunds will not be issued once a course or consultation has commenced.