If I could give more than 5 stars I would🌟
I cannot recommend PACT highly enough! The course itself is so flexible for people who have other commitments, but the course wasn’t a worry for me, as I’ve done a university degree, but the in person 2 day experience, that worried me. I didn’t know what to expect in Southampton, but they completely exceeded every expectation. From the moment I arrived, the team went above and beyond to make everything accessible and welcoming (I’m wheelchair bound). They ensured the venue was fully accessible, even arranging a disabled toilet for me, looked out for my partner (carer) so he felt included, checked on me after seizures, and made sure Oreo (my assistance dog) and I were cared for every step of the way. Even the weather didn’t stop them from making everything as smooth and supportive as possible.
What truly stood out was how they saw me not as someone with a disability, but as a dog trainer. That mindset completely changed my experience for me personally. By the end of the course, I felt confident enough to teach my first class, something I never imagined I could do. I have already been doing 1:1’s but the practical issues around teaching a class were huge, so I never got the confidence to venture out, until Steve took the time and spoke to me about the things I could implement for group classes, making me feel like it was possible. The students were so lovely, and the PACT team have created such a safe space, which is just beautiful. They gave me the guidance, tools, and reassurance I needed to feel capable and confident.
As an auDHD girly, my social battery usually runs out quickly, but with the PACT team, I felt like I could talk to them forever. They are my kind of people, authentic, inclusive, and just plain fun. Being around them made the experience not just educational, but joyful, inspiring, and life-changing.
PACT is more than a training organisation, they genuinely care about the people and dogs they work with. They create an environment where you feel valued, supported, and empowered but also there is no pressure to do anything you don’t want to do. I laughed, learned, and grew in ways I never expected, and I left the 2 day course feeling confident, proud, and inspired. I haven’t yet finished the course, but when I do, I’m going to be so proud to be a member of such a beautiful team, and a special organisation. I have never felt like I belonged anywhere, but now, I feel that I belong. Thank you.
If you’re thinking about becoming a dog trainer, PACT is the place to be. They don’t just teach skills, they change lives. They changed mine. I can’t wait to finish this course, so I can move on to the behavioural one!








