Born and raised in Australia, I’ve spent my entire life surrounded by animals- from hand-raising orphaned wildlife to working professionally with exotic species around the globe. My experience includes everything from kangaroos, crocodiles and snakes to lions, bears and elephants. Today, alongside my work with dogs, I run Kingfisher Wildlife & Exotics Sanctuary in the UK, where I rescue and rehabilitate native wildlife including foxes, badgers and hedgehogs. At home, I live with a very eclectic bunch of rescued animals- including a resident fox named Jasper, a collection of parrots, snakes, emus, kookaburras, iguanas, and even tarantulas!
I have rescued dogs my entire life and they have all been a huge part of my journey.
NATALIE SPENCER
Behaviourist and Head Trainer
Hi I’m Natalie- Behaviourist and Head Trainer here at Leaps and Bounds, where I’ve proudly been part of the team for over a decade.
With a deep passion for building stronger relationships between dogs and their humans, I specialise in reward-based, science led, positive reinforcement training methods that are both effective and kind.
I lead a wide range of classes, from foundational Puppy Training right through to Advanced Obedience. I also run our popular and carefully structured “Give Me Space” program, designed specifically for dogs who are reactive or need a little extra support navigating the world.
Currently I have two dogs, Maui and Dobby.
Maui (aka The Maligator)- my Belgian Malinois- was unexpectedly left on my doorstep at just six weeks old and now works by my side daily as part of our Stooge Dog Team.
Dobby the Jack Russell, was a very challenging subject indeed. I took him on with severe aggression issues. He wanted to attack everything! People, cyclists, horses, other dogs and birds were all on his kill list. He has undergone an incredible trasnformation through patience, understanding, and training- and he now lives harmoniously with many other animals.
At Leaps and Bounds, I’m known as the resident behaviour geek- constantly immersed in the latest research on canine and animal behaviour. I love learning, growing, and sharing knowledge to help as many animals (and their humans) as possible.
I’m all about creating a welcoming, supportive space where you and your dog feel safe, seen, and celebrated. This work is my passion, and I feel lucky to be part of such a skilled, compassionate, and like-minded team.
I can’t wait to meet you and help you help your dog thrive!
MEET THE TEAM
TAMMY
JO
GEORGIA
NICOLA
NATALIE
