the journey from doctor to dog trainer
Zara began her career as a doctor in 2016, developing a calm, analytical approach and strong communication skills while working in busy hospital settings. Years of clinical practice shaped how she works today: listening carefully, identifying root causes rather than surface symptoms, and explaining complex problems in a clear, reassuring way.
In 2023, Zara stepped away from full-time clinical medicine to pursue research in liver disease - and finally welcomed home her dog, Jeffrey, a high-energy Hungarian Vizsla. What followed was a steep learning curve. Recall felt impossible, lead frustration grew, and reactivity began to creep in despite group classes, consulting multiple trainers, and hours of dedicated practice.
If any of this feels familiar, you’re not alone and it’s not too late!
Let’s talk about what’s really going on - and create a clear, realistic plan to create meaningful, lasting change for you and your dog.
building trust,
not just obedience
Everything changed when Zara discovered an evidence-based, behaviour-led approach to training through Honest Hounds. For the first time, dog behaviour was explained in a way that mirrored her medical training: logical, science-informed, and focused on why behaviour happens. By shifting from “fixing” problems to building partnership and addressing underlying causes, Jeffrey was reliably off lead within six weeks - and they had begun to build a relationship rooted in trust and respect. What started as a breakthrough with her own dog became a professional realisation: Zara recognised that this approach aligned deeply with her clinical mindset, leading her to pursue dog training as a new professional calling driven by a desire to support others facing the same challenges she once had.
shaped
by science
Every recommendation at DOC & DOG is grounded in behavioural science and current research - not trends, myths, or outdated methods.
strengthened by partnership
Lasting change happens when you and your dog work as a team. We prioritise connection, communication, and trust - not just obedience.
Today, Zara brings together her medical expertise and first-hand experience as a reactive dog owner to deliver science-backed, personalised, and effective dog training. DOC & DOG offers clear assessments, tailored plans, and practical support designed to create real-world progress - helping you build a confident and trusting relationship with your dog.
where evidence meets experience
HONEST HOUNDS
Zara began her formal training with Honest Hounds in 2025, having previously been a keen community member for several years. She has completed their Science of Partnership course and following this was awarded a place on their competitive Dog Trainer Mentorship Program studying under mentors Jess Probst and Jessie Montague.
Back in 2024, Zara recognised that Jeffrey’s frustration and reactivity were likely to escalate without expert guidance. Despite sessions with multiple trainers, his progress remained limited until Honest Hounds provided the pivotal breakthrough she had been seeking - unlocking the science that underpins dog behaviour. Honest Hounds is about more than just dog training; it’s a community of dog owners committed to learning, supporting one another, and achieving the best for their dogs.
Zara regularly recommends that dog owners complement their personalised DOC & DOG training plans with the wealth of learning resources available through Honest Hounds. To get started, you can sign up using code ‘NWLZARA’ to access the Education Tier for just £1 for your first month.