The Welfare Way

31/07/2026

Little Frank ❤️

18/07/2026

Dog study volunteers needed – can you and your dog help?

POSTING ON BEHALF OF RIVER McDONALD, CCAB

I am currently researching the impact of walking equipment (and harnesses in particular) on dog gait and movement, and still need lots more doggy volunteers to come over to the Bush Estate (EH25 9R, near Dick Vet) and be filmed walking on a loose lead in various bits of equipment (their own normal walking equipment, a collar and lead and three popular harness brands).

All kinds of dogs and all kinds of equipment welcome (and encouraged!). I am particularly keen to get more Labs, Bulldogs, Pugs, Dobermans, Greyhounds, Spaniels and Border Terriers in, but any dog that fits study criteria is welcome to sign up!

The video study will involve the following:

*Filling out a short questionnaire (specific to your dog and so we can fit them for the right size harness!);
*Attending SRUC at the Bush Estate (EH25 9RG) for around 1 hour on one of our filming days (or let us know when you are available)
*Giving your dog time to acclimatise to the study area – they can explore, sniff, practice walking up and down, say hi to us (or not, we won’t judge!) – we want them to be comfortable and happy;
*Walking your dog up and down on a loose lead in front of a camera;
*Repeating this a few times in their own equipment, a collar and lead and three publicly available harnesses.
*Pose for a photo or two (optional!).
*Head home knowing you and your dog might just have helped us make new scientific discoveries about how harnesses impact our best friends!

To take part in this study, please click the link below where you will find a detailed participant information sheet and consent form where we will ask you to complete information on your dog along with their measurements (so we can fit them for the correct size harness).

Study sign-up here >>>>> https://app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk/s/sruc/impacts-of-walking-harness-design-on-pet-dog-movement

17/07/2026

As I delve into the adventure of launching The Welfare Way, I am actively looking for ways to expand my hands-on experience and give back to the rescue community!

I have been incredibly fortunate to be welcomed by the wonderful team at PADS in Perth. They have very kindly opened their doors, allowing me to come in and run some short training sessions with a few of their beautiful rescue dogs.

Today, I want to introduce you all to Tanner! 🐾

Tanner is such a good boy. He is an excitable staffie with a lot of energy, but at his core, he is a massive people-lover. We had a brilliant little session together, and he was extremely EXCITED to engage with some toys!

Tanner is currently looking for his forever home. If you or someone you know has the time, love, and space for a wonderful VERY energetic companion, please check out his profile:
https://padsdogrescue.com/2026/06/29/tanner/

A huge thank you again to the PADS team for trusting me with your dogs and for allowing me this invaluable experience. I can't wait for my next visit!

Tanner 🧡

Sploot of the day!

12/07/2026

🐾 Welcome to The Welfare Way! 🐾

My name is Tayanne, and I would like to introduce you to my new local business, offering compassionate, up-to-date, and science-led dog training and multi-species pet care.

My path to animal care started in the scientific community. I hold an MSc in Applied Animal Behaviour and Animal Welfare and spent over 7 years working within the zoo industry. Managing the daily care and behavioral needs of diverse, specialized species taught me patience, close observation, and deep ethical responsibility.

Now, I am taking everything I’ve learned about animal welfare and using it to create a safe space for you and your pets! As I take the first steps in growing my business, I am offering selected services so I can give your animals my full attention.

What I Offer:
🐶 1-2-1 Puppy Advice & Practical Training: Guidance on early development and helping your puppy settle into a calm routine.
🐕 1-2-1 Adult Foundation Lessons: Private, supportive sessions to help you and your dog communicate. We focus on introductions to basic behaviours, loose-lead walking foundations, focus games, and building up confidence in quiet environments.
🌳 1-2-1 Specialized Dog Walks: Dedicated, solo on-lead walks designed for rescue dogs, reactive dogs, or companions who find group environments overwhelming.
🏡 Pop-In Pet Sitting Visits: Reliable, welfare-first care visits for dogs, cats, small furries, birds, or reptiles in the comfort of their own home.

My Promise to You:
I believe that training should be an enjoyable experience that builds confidence. I use positive training methods backed by science that prioritizes your dog's welfare. As a student currently undertaking the Level 4 Canine Training Instructor course, I am subject to the strict PACT (Professional Association of Canine Trainers) Code of Conduct and aligned with ABTC standards.

I am fully insured and Canine First Aid Certified.

I would absolutely love to hear from you. If your pet needs a little extra time, space, or understanding, please feel free to send me a message here on Facebook or drop me an email!

🔗 Our full website is coming very soon!
📍 Based in Cupar