Expert Witness Work

Legal cases involving dogs frequently require the opinion of an expert in the field of canine behaviour or breed type. It is important that courts understand why a dog may have behaved in an aggressive manner or they may be perceived to be dangerous. Using scientific knowledge, experience and investigative skills from a detective background I provide a thorough, fully comprehensive expert witness service.

I have particular expertise in understanding human directed dog aggression and the assessment of the risk a dog may present, having researched these areas at doctoral level to achieve my PhD. I also have a BSc (hons) in Canine Behaviour Management and am a member of the International Association of Animal Behaviour Consultants. I have experience as a behaviour consultant working with pet dogs, shelter dogs rescued from the streets in Spain, and street dogs in India and Sri Lanka.

I have experience working with game bred American Pit Bull Terriers and Pit Bull Type dogs from fighting backgrounds in the United States.

I am able to carry out behavioural assessments and breed identification of dogs whose owners are facing prosecution under Section 1 (breed type) and Section 3(1) and (4) of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 and Section 2 of the Dogs Act 1871 (behaviour).

I am a member of the UK Register of Expert Witnesses and my expert opinion on behaviour and breed type has been accepted in both criminal and civil matters.

I also provide my expert opinion in personal injury matters and animal welfare cases in the UK.

Based in the North West, I routinely travel all over the UK to assess dogs, both in their own homes and in police custody.