William Hankey

I have recently completed a foundation degree (FdSc) in canine training and behaviour and would like to go on to qualify as a canine behaviourist and be an assistance dog trainer.  To date, I have complimented my full time canine studies with volunteering at the local RSPCA dog cruelty case centre, getting involved with all aspects of dog welfare there, including obedience training, exercising, socialising, grooming, feeding and cleaning.  As I have finished full time study for the time being, I should like to concentrate on gaining as much hands on experience working with dogs, where I can put my theoretical canine knowledge to good use and improve my practical dog handling and training skills. I will be registering as a Level 4 (Canine Training Instructor) member of the National Institute of Canine Ethics (NICE) once my official FdSc results are available, mid-June, through which I hope to gain membership of the Animal Behaviour & Training Council (ABTC) in due course.

Relevant experience 

Student Placement & Volunteering at RSPCA Warrington, Halton & St Helens branch (29th Sept 2023 – present)

• Walking and exercising dogs
• Grooming and training
• Completing written reports on behaviours and incidents
• Feeding and care of dogs
• Maintaining and cleaning kennels to industry standard

Volunteering at Warrington Animal Welfare (June 2022 – to present)

• I contacted Warrington Animal welfare (WAW) to offer my time as a volunteer
• Broadened my knowledge of caring for dogs 
• Exercising and grooming 
• Cleaning and maintenance
• Shadowing meet and greets with potential adopters 
• Feeding of dogs 

Non relevant professional experience 

Lifeguarding for Livewire – Leisure Attendant (November 2022 – present)

• Serving customers and signing them into the building 
• Lifeguard duties associated with a busy swimming pool 
• Maintaining monthly staff training to ensure competency to carry out my role
• First aider on poolside as well as dry side 
• Understanding of how cleaning must be done, as well as which chemicals are appropriate.

Foundation Degree - Canine Behaviour and Training (2022-2024)

Studies completed 9th May 2024. 

Grade Achieved - Merit