After working as a veterinarian for nearly two decades and undertaking additional studies in animal behaviour, Dr Louise founded Hope On A Leash to focus on the deep connection between pets’ physical and mental health.

Over the course of more than 15 years working as a vet across the South Gippsland region of Victoria, Dr Louise saw many clients struggling with anxious pets alongside other behavioural issues. For all the love in the world, neither the pets nor their humans were living their best lives. She also saw the impact of anxiety on her own rescue dog, a Bull Arab cross named Hope, for whom the practice is named.

Dr Louise developed a passion that led to additional study in veterinary behaviour, gaining membership to the Australia and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in Veterinary Behaviour in 2021. She also completed a professional dog training certification through the positive reinforcement-based Karen Pryor Academy as well as Fear Free Professional Certification in 2020, progressing through to the Elite level.

Combining expertise in contemporary veterinary science, leading practice animal psychology and science-based positive reinforcement training techniques, Dr Louise helps pets and their humans build solid foundations of behaviour and trust. This helps to create the bond, partnership and quality of life we all want for ourselves and our pets.