Meet Our Expert Team

Meet the Pet Necessities team! Led by Sarah Hickmott, our expert trainers offer dog training, obedience coaching, and behavior support for happy, well-behaved pets

With a focus on positive reinforcement and modern training techniques, we ensure that every dog receives the attention and guidance they need

Sarah Hickmott BSc (Hons) Head Trainer And Clinical Animal Behaviourist

Pet Necessities Professional Dog Training is run by Sarah Hickmott BSc (Hons). Being a professional dog trainer, in our mind, means you have completed educational studies and passed rigorous assessment procedures.

Sarah is a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), meaning that not only has she been assessed for her standard, but she promises to conform to the association’s ethics of only using kind, reward-based training methods. This is essential when looking for someone to help you train your best friend; anyone can state that they are a qualified dog trainer, but look for APDT membership as a seal of approval. She is also a full member of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (APBC), meaning she is a fully qualified canine behaviour specialist.

Sarah is a registered Animal Training Instructor and Clinical Animal Behaviourist with The Animal Behaviour and Training Council

Julia Hardy

Julia is a full member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT01313) and the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT).  In 2019 Julia completed her qualifications to become a registered behaviourist with the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDTB).  She has been working with Sarah since 2014.

Julia has attended many courses in dog training and behaviour by the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and obtained certificates in:

  • APDT Foundation Dog Training Instructors Course (2014)
  • APDT Advanced Dog Training Instructors Course (2015)
  • APDT Level 3 Certificate in Advanced Dog Training Instructing (2015 & 2016)
  • Open College Network Level 3 “Principles of Dog Training and Behaviour” accreditation (2017)
  • Open College Network Level 5 “Understanding and Working with Canine Behaviour (2019)

Julia has a certificate in Canine First Aid, with Animal Aiders

Morag Livingstone

Morag is a full member of the Professional Association of Canine Trainers (PACT0446) , making her a certified dog trainer.  She has been training her dogs with Sarah since since 2008.

  • Morag is a registered trainer with The Animal Behaviour & Training Council (ABTC).
  • She is studying a Level 5 Diploma in Canine Behaviour with Canine Principles.
  • Morag owns two Golden Retrievers and has owned the breed for fifteen years.
  • She competes in agility.

Morag is a registered trainer with The Animal Behaviour & Training Council (ABTC)