MARCIA AND BRISTOL DOG DAYS
A Career Change Led by Care
I didn’t start out in the dog world. I worked in Social Care for years but struggled with the constant tug of war between genuine care and profit driven decision making. Eventually I realised it wasn’t where my heart was. So I stepped into something that always had been dogs.
From Dog Walking to Truly Engaged Dogs
When I began dog walking, I noticed the same pattern again and again. Many dogs were physically exercised but mentally restless. They weren’t engaged with their owners and weren’t getting what they truly needed.
So I changed the way I worked. I took small groups on structured adventures packed with games like scent work, parkour, and sausage hunts. My motto was simple: engage the nose, tire the brain, and the well balanced dog follows.
Supporting Reactive and Anxious Dogs
Along the way I discovered something important. Dogs who struggled with reactivity and environmental triggers thrived with this approach. I know how isolating life with a reactive dog can be. I’ve lived it myself.
Through desensitisation, emotional support, and consistent training, I helped my own dog move from overwhelmed to confident. Watching that transformation is what inspired my focus today.
That’s why I now specialise in solo walks, reactive dog support, and calmer, structured environments where anxious dogs can feel safe enough to learn.
Qualified, Experienced, and Evidence Based
My curiosity for behaviour turned into formal study. I use the principles of behaviourism, classical conditioning, operant conditioning, habituation, and structured desensitisation in my work.
I train with the Dog Training College and hold a Diploma in Canine Behaviour and Body Language. My Psychology degree gives me a solid foundation in behavioural science. I’m also canine first aid trained and DBS checked, because safety comes first always.
My Mission for Dogs and Their Owners
My aim is to support owners from puppyhood through adolescence and adulthood, with a particular passion for helping anxious and reactive dogs feel more relaxed in their world.
There is nothing better than being able to say my dog is no longer reactive and actually mean it.
Promoting Responsible Ownership
I’m also committed to spreading awareness of Dog Law. Many owners don’t realise their legal responsibilities, and understanding them makes life easier and safer for everyone, including the dog.
"I’m Marcia, founder of Bristol Dog Days.
If you’re ready to help your dog feel calmer, safer, and more understood, you’re in the right place."
Check out What Our Customers Say
BLOG HIGHLIGHTS
Read training tips, case studies and real-owner stories. Recent posts include seasonal safety advice and founder stories that explain our approach to kind, effective training.
Keeping Your Dog Safe in a Heat Wave
How can we keep our dogs comfortable during hot weather? ...more
Dog Training Advice
July 21, 2025•4 min read
Keeping Your Dog Happy And Healthy At Christmas
Keeping Your Dog Happy And Healthy At Christmas ...more
Dog Training Advice
December 19, 2024•6 min read
How I Became a Dog Trainer
The inspiring journey of a social worker turned dog trainer and how she transformed her approach to dog training and established bristol dog days. ...more
Dog Training Advice
December 08, 2024•3 min read
CONTACT US
By Post:
15 Parsons Paddock , Bristol England Bs14 9uq
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 07759 017672
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