What happens at a Canine Retreat?

People sometimes ask whether a retreat day is a training class. It isn’t. There’s nothing to get right, and nobody is marked. It’s a day for you and your dog to slow down together, and I’d like to tell you what one is like.

Why I run them

Sometimes, with everything going on in our lives, we forget how important it is to simply spend time with our animals. A retreat day is my way of making that happen: a small, gentle gathering of dogs and their guardians, outdoors where we can, with nothing to hurry for. Everything I bring to it comes from my own background – Animal Aromatics, Canine Flow and years of listening to animals – but I keep it simple.

The shape of the day

These are the things my previous retreat days have included. Each day is a little different, and the exact programme for the next one will be in its listing, but this will give you the feel.

We start by stopping. A few simple breathing exercises, feet on the ground, dog beside you. There’s no need to rush; this is time to arrive and notice how you both feel.

Understanding emotions. We talk, gently, about how you’re feeling and how your dog may be feeling, and how the two tend to go together. No judgement; just noticing.

Guided meditation and relaxation. A chance to become still with your dog. There’s nothing to get right. We make space for each dog and guardian to take part in a way that feels comfortable.

Canine Flow and canine hypnotherapy. Gentle approaches from my own training, which I’ve offered on previous days, aimed at calm and connection rather than fixing anything. I always explain what we’re doing and why, and nothing is compulsory.

Animal Aromatics. Self-selection is where the animal chooses. I introduce it carefully and supervise it throughout. I’d never suggest using essential oils with your animals at home without proper guidance.

A mindful walk. A slow walk through the countryside, paying attention to what your dog notices. Not a route march.

Time together. Space in the day with nothing scheduled, because sometimes that’s when the best things happen. Lunch and refreshments have been part of previous days; each listing says exactly what’s included.

Why I keep them small

My last retreat was limited to ten places, and I like it that way. It means I get to know every dog and every guardian, and I can adapt the day to who’s actually there. Group size and suitability for each retreat are always in its own listing, so you’ll know before you book.

What people take home

I can’t promise your dog will behave differently afterwards, and I wouldn’t try. My hope is that the day gives you time to pay attention to one another and enjoy being together. That’s what the day is for.

The next dates, when confirmed, will be shared in the Journal, and you can read more on the Canine Retreats page. Or just ask me.