About Paws Abilities
Our Story
Paws Abilities was founded in 1995 by Louise Thompson with a simple but powerful belief: every dog deserves to be understood, not dominated. After witnessing too many dogs being "trained" through fear and intimidation, Louise was determined to create a different path - one based on trust, communication, and respect for the dog's natural learning abilities.
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What started as a small training practice in Benoni has grown into a specialised behaviour and training center, but our core mission remains unchanged. We believe that when dogs feel safe and understood, they naturally want to cooperate with their families.
Our Philosophy
Do No Harm, Cause No Pain, Create No Fear
This isn't just our motto - it's the foundation of everything we do. Modern science has shown us that dogs learn best and are more willing to respond through positive experiences, not through fear or intimidation.
Our science-based approach respects how dogs actually 'think' and learn, creating lasting behavioural change that strengthens the bond between you and your dog.
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We don't use shock collars, prong collars, or intimidation methods because effective training doesn't require them. Instead, we focus on:
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Understanding what motivates your individual dog
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Teaching dogs what we want them to do, rather than punishing what we don't want
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Building confidence in fearful or reactive dogs
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Creating positive associations with new experiences and challenges
What Sets Us Apart
Louise's 40+ years of working with dogs, cats, horses, and birds brings a depth of understanding that goes beyond textbook knowledge. This experience helps us see patterns and solutions that others might miss.
Our team of certified professionals means you get consistent support and multiple perspectives on your dog's progress. Each team member brings specialised skills to help your dog succeed.
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Our purpose-built center in Benoni offers unique resources including a swimming pool, agility equipment, secure play areas, and specialised spaces for fearful dogs, tools that improve the training experience and provide enrichment opportunities.
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Multi-Species Expertise
Our experience with different animal species gives us insight into universal learning principles and helps us adapt our methods to each individual dog's personality and needs.
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Professional Qualifications That Matter
Louise Thompson holds extensive qualifications in animal behaviour, including:
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Senior Accredited Animal Consultant and Professional Trainer.
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Accredited with the Animal Behaviour Consultants of SA ©®™ 1996.
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Accredited in Canine, Feline, Equine, and Avian Animal Behaviour.
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Certificate of Companion Animal Behaviour (Faculty of Veterinary Science, Department of Ethology, University of Pretoria).
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Certificate of Advanced Animal Behaviour (Pretoria Technikon Cum Laude).
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Certified Companion Animal Behaviourist (South African Board For Companion Animal Professionals).
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Professional Member of the International Pet Professional Guild Promoting Force-Free Training.
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Editor of the Animal Behaviour Consultant of Southern Africa.
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Honorary Life Member of Top Dogs (Touch Hour Pets) Dog Therapy Organisation.
These credentials ensure that our methods are grounded in current scientific understanding of animal learning and behaviour.
Our Team
Our team are qualified and highly experienced in all things dog.
Louise Thompson
Behaviour Consultant & Certified Dog Training Professional.
With over 40 years in the field, Louise combines extensive academic training with
real-world experience.
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Her gentle approach has helped thousands of dogs and their families build
stronger relationships.
Louise specialises in complex behavioral cases and is passionate about educating both dogs and their people.
Marianna Huttonvh
Certified in Canine Behaviour Management & Advanced Canine Behaviour
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Marianna brings enthusiasm and expertise to both group classes and individual training sessions.
She has a particular talent for working with nervous and aggressive dogs, and helping them build confidence through positive experiences.
Kim Buchanan
Certified Training Professional​​
Kim's patient approach
and clear communication make her excellent with
both first-time dog owners, and experienced handlers
looking to refine their skills.
She specialises in
puppy training and
life skills training.
Charlie Harper
Kennel &
Daycare Supervisor​​
Charlie ensures that every dog in our care receives individual attention, enrichment, and continues their training even during boarding.
Her calm energy helps anxious dogs feel secure in our facility.
What You Can Expect
When you work with Paws Abilities, you're not just getting training - you're getting a partnership.
We take time to understand your dog's unique personality, your household dynamics, and your specific goals.
Whether you're dealing with a new puppy, a reactive rescue, or long-standing behavioral challenges, we create customised programs that work for your situation.
WHAT PEOPLE SAY About Us
Our Commitment to You
We're committed to helping you build the relationship with your dog that you've always wanted.
Training should strengthen your bond, not strain it. Our methods are designed to create dogs who choose to cooperate because of mutrul trust with their human families, not because they're afraid of the consequences.
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Every dog is different, and every family's needs are unique. That's why we take the time to really understand your situation before creating our behaviour and training plan. Our success is measured by the understanding and real life improvements we see in both dogs and their families.
Ready to start your journey with us?
Contact Paws Abilities today to discuss how we can help you and your dog live well together.