Years ago, I was a dog behaviourist and trainer. I wrote a book on dog behaviour, wrote prolifically on the subject in various places and was very lucky to become friends with and work with some of the most prominent names in the field. Sadly, some health problems forced me to change careers. I found myself teaching English as a second language a couple of years ago and fell in love with it.

I'm a staunch animal welfare advocate and a vegan. My political views are quite left-leaning, and I'm a Green voter.

I'm also a mum to two adults, a dogparent to Twyla (Springador) and a girlfriend to my long-suffering partner Peter.