Hello my name is Sue and I am a Certified Dog Behaviourist qualified to degree level and I use positive methods to work with my clients and their dogs. I have 9 year's experience, work with all breeds and sizes and I have run The Surrey Ark Team for 11 years.
Follow me on Instagram @mendmydog and Facebook 'Mendmydog Dog Behaviourist
All types of dog behaviour covered including:
Jumping up
Pulling on the lead
Reactivity toward other dogs/people/children
Excessive barking
Territorial Aggression
Resource Guarding
Mouthing and biting
Inappropriate toileting
Rehabilitating rescues
Recall
Separation Anxiety
Good social manners with dogs/people
Fear based issues
Choosing the right puppy for you from a litter
Puppy training/house training
121 Puppy training in your own home
(an increasingly popular alternative or add on to puppy classes)
Introducing your new dog to children
Teaching your children how to be safe around your dog
Teaching dog body language to humans
Help choosing the right breed for you
Owner/dog training walks
inappropriate Mounting
Received 12th Feb 2022
Certified Dog Behaviourist
Mendymydog
Aka Sue @ The Surrey Ark
Packages Available:
Home Video/Phone Consultation – £35
This option is ideal for minor issues. You’ll provide video footage of your dog’s behaviour, and we’ll discuss solutions over the phone or via video call.
Full 1-to-1 Home Consultation – £150
This comprehensive package includes:
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A 1-2 hour in-person consultation to assess you and your dog.
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A detailed written report, including a Behavioural Modification Programme and homework.
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Potential vet referral if needed.
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Free follow-up support via texts and calls for guidance.
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Why Choose Me?
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Tailored Support in Familiar Surroundings
I work with you and your dog one-to-one, either at your home or a local park. This approach is highly effective as it takes place where your dog feels comfortable and where the behaviours occur. -
A Personalised Approach
Every dog-owner dynamic is unique. My method focuses on strengthening the bond between you and your dog, ensuring lasting results. -
Hands-On Training and Expertise
I don’t just teach theory – I provide practical, hands-on support. Many of my clients have previously sought professional help elsewhere without success and have found my approach more effective. -
Professional Standards and Up-to-Date Knowledge
I am committed to using scientifically backed, positive-only methods recommended by the RSPCA and Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). -
The Difference Between a Dog Behaviourist and Dog Trainer
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Dog Behaviourist
A behaviourist takes a full history, works with your vet, and carries out in-depth assessments to uncover the root cause of your dog’s behavioural issues. This is often the only way to achieve long-term success. -
Dog Trainer
Trainers typically address surface-level symptoms rather than the underlying causes. -
Important Note:
This industry is currently unregulated, meaning anyone can claim to be a trainer or behaviourist. Always check qualifications. My certifications (ABTC and APBC approved) are considered the gold standard in the UK and align with RCVS and RSPCA guidelines.
For aggression issues, always consult a professional qualified to at least Level 5 in dog behaviour using positive methods.
Rescue Dog Settling-In Package
Initial Consultation – £150
This includes:
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A full assessment and tailored rehabilitation programme.
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Free follow-up support via phone for 3 months.
I specialise in rescue dog rehabilitation, particularly for ex-street or foreign rescues. These dogs often require unique approaches to avoid worsening behavioural issues.
Dog/Owner Training Walks – £70/hour
Ideal for addressing minor issues like lead pulling or improving recall. For reactive dogs, a full consultation is required to assess the root cause and create a tailored plan.
1-to-1 Puppy Starter Session
Bespoke Support – £70/hour
This flexible package includes:
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A pre-collection email or phone consultation to prepare you for your puppy’s arrival.
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Home visits and training walks tailored to your needs.
Additional Services:
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Evening and weekend appointments to accommodate families.
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Specific advice for children on interacting with a new puppy.
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A printed puppy starter pack covering your puppy’s first year, developmental stages, and common pitfalls to avoid.
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FREE Whasapp Support for the first year
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Many clients find one-to-one sessions more effective than group classes, especially for distracted or overwhelmed puppies. I’ll guide you through proper socialisation in a controlled environment and provide ongoing support as needed.
Ready to Begin?
Complete our Contact Us form to start your journey towards a happier, more trusting relationship with your dog.









Client Reviews for Mendmydog
My reviews speak for themselves and are all fully verifiable
Lily:
"It’s incredible to see our new rescue dog Lily snuggling up for strokes and cuddles now, after a very rocky start. She was a snarling hot mess in the beginning and we were properly scared of her until Sue came to our rescue! I’m not sure she would still be with us had you not taken our desperate phone call a few weeks ago! You are the dog whisperer of Claygate!! Thank you so much!!!" Sue Cole 28/8/20
Teddy:
"Lockdown has proved tough for humans and pets alike. We were recommended The Surrey Ark through a local dog groomer. Teddy broke his toe when he was very young and has had a trip to Fitzpatrick to top it off for a dodgy leg. He is now 3 but still acting like a young puppy pulling at the lead and with my children not really wanting to take him out for a walk as he would pull too hard. His anxiety around being left was getting worse and even the postman delivering letters was causing him a daily upset. The Surrey Ark came in at a point when we could have a visitor so we socially distanced outside. We carried out a survey so they were fully briefed before arriving. We as a family made a joint decision to all do this together and well. The Surrey Ark (Sue) got Teddy straight away and identified his personality type which we could all relate to. After our meeting we had some homework and videos, visuals and activities to go over. We all wrote the key words that Teddy needed for us to remain consistent, we also bought an outside letter box which has helped him and the postman! It's been great to keep in touch get helpful tips and check in! I am so thankful to have found The Surrey Ark" Karen Pearman 14/7/20
Rose:
“Our 4 month old Pomeranian puppy was very reactive due to fear and felt the need to jump and growl at people and other dogs on walks. Surrey Ark were extremely approachable and friendly and provided some very helpful advice over the phone during lockdown, which was then sent over as a report. On following the advice our little pup is much more confident each day and less reactive to triggers. Would definitely recommend when raising a puppy during lockdown.” Yasmin Lily 25/5/20
Bella
We called on Sue to give us some guidance with our 21 month old Jack Russell, Bella, who was quite nervous of other dogs, and had a couple of other issues. We are so glad we did, although we are experienced dog owners, the time spent with Sue, and her advice, was really helpful. So much so, Bella is more confident, and less anxious when on her daily walks. Sue has a gentle, caring approach, and Bella really warmed to her and reacted well to her. Sue also recommended a change of diet, and that has proved to be a positive step. We would definitely recommend her, and so would Bella. Sally Dyos 23/1/20
Kitty
" We asked Sue to help us with our dog as she had recently bitten our friends young girl. We under took what Sue advised us to do, including games, fun feeding ideas, and training tips. In doing this, our dog became much more confident and her role within our family. She is now less confused and when children are around, she knows to go to her safe spot, so she feels secure. Sue also advised giving her different food in the evening, which has ensured she is able to go through the night with out going to the toilet. We would highly recommend Sue, she has helped us transform our dog." K Kelleher 11/10/19
Rocky
"Brilliant dog training techniques. Our overexcited Rocky has realised that he doesn’t need to bark each time he goes outside" Silke Espinet 22/9/19
Sally:
We are so grateful to have found Sue and the team at Surrey Ark. After rehoming our nervous rescue girl, Sally, we've needed extra support in settling her in and getting her used to spending time alone. Sue has really gone above and beyond for us, she genuinely cares about Sally and making sure we all go at a pace she is comfortable with. We are so grateful for the support of Sue and Tugba and feel that Sally is in such safe hands when she's spending time with them. We have also learned an enormous amount about nervous dogs thanks to Sue's expertise. Sally has come such a long way, showing more and more of her personality and even making friends with Sue's lovely dogs too. We can't thank you enough for everything you have done for us!
Lauren Raynor April 2019
Barney
Barney"I cannot recommend Sue from Surrey Ark highly enough, so here comes the longest review I have ever written! Sue and Leah have known Barney, our golden retriever, since he was a tiny pup. He is a gorgeous dog, now five years old, but he has become increasingly difficult to manage over the years. In desperatation, after the worst week we’ve had with him, I asked Sue to come and help me. If I’m honest, this was a last attempt on my part (Sue is the third dog behaviourist we’ve seen) before we considered re-housing him, so I was very apprehensive. Within minutes of arriving at our house, Sue had assessed him as a funny old mix of nervous and and status seeking - both of which made total sense. She then set about showing me simple tricks to help him step down from the role he’d taken on as my protector. It was the way that she explained this that made more sense than ever before, and it was a bit like a light bulb coming on for the first time. We spent a lot of time in the house, and then had a short walk together, Sue modelling how to start a walk calmly with him before I had a go. Once Sue had left, I had a go on my own and followed all her tips to the letter. It is hard to convey in writing what an extraordinary experience this was, but Barney was totally and utterly different. He walked calmly, looked me in the eye properly and had no ‘crazy dog’ moments of launching himself at any of his long list of triggers. And this was part way through day 1. Four days later, and he truly is a different dog. He’s stopped barking in the house, no longer barks at the door and is totally and utterly chilled: my husband couldn’t believe the difference when he came home after a week away last evening.We are beyond thrilled and beyond grateful. I know we‘ve still got lots of work to do, but with Sue’s continuing support and reassurance, I feel that the pieces of jigsaw will join properly at last, and we can start enjoying our beautiful Barney again." Clare Hepworth 16/2/19
Lola
I contacted Sue after she was personally recommended to me. We had recently got our first family puppy and I'd become a little concerned that my youngest son was losing his confidence around her with all the puppy biting and jumping up. Sue came round to the house to meet Lola and gave us some fantastic strategies to help Lola happily slot in to her correct position in "our pack." We have recently met up with Sue again for a training walk to help Lola (and me) build confidence after an unfortunate incident with another dog. Sue has so much knowledge and is fantastic with Lola. I've found talking to her and learning more about our four legged friends invaluable. We have another training session in the diary! Emma Hobden 6/11/18
Daisy
Sue has been amazing with our cockapoo Daisy.
Daisy had no boundaries and was always jumping at people, didn’t listen or adhere to any training we gave her and I became worried as the kids especially my young daughter became scared of her. We started to loose confidence in ourselves and felt we had made a mistake getting a dog.
After the first session with Sue, My confidence came back. We did several follow ups with Sue. She was passionate about helping us that she even gave us free sessions just to help us get it right. Sue taught my son how to walk with the dog and was always there to respond to all the text messages.
Sue you are an amazing teacher. You have given both me and the kids confidence to live with daisy and we would forever be grateful to you .
When it comes to dogs You are a miracle Worker���
Latoya Walter 22/2/18
Maisie
"Sue helped us with our 10-month old Vizsla who was having some unusual issues over particular toys and I wanted to nip it in the bud before it escalated into resource guarding. After an initial 'assessment', Sue gave us lots of tips/exercises to work on to help make sure she felt secure and comfortable and almost looked to us for guidance/reassurance in certain circumstances. We continue to use these techniques to work on the bond between all of us and our dog. Sue provided excellent support via email after the initial meeting, and then we had a productive follow-up session so that we could build on what we'd learnt from the first one." Jo 10/1/19
"5 Stars" The Surrey Ark have now cared for our dogs on 2 occasions while we have been abroad on holiday. I could not be happier with their service - both Sue and Zoe provided outstanding care to our dogs - they will never go to kennels again!
Sue also did some behavioural training with our more dominant dog and we returned to a different dog. We are now working hard to maintain the good
work she has done!" Kate Heaney 13/9/17
" 5 Stars!
Sue and Leah have been brilliant! They gave us lots of practical tips for helping Lottie in the home (helping her understand where she stood in the pack after the arrival of a new baby) and then showed us how to help Lottie remain calm and
not fearful when meeting other dogs, particularly those more assertive ones.
It has helped us all enormously - thank you from all of us, in particular Lottie!"
Emma Jenkins 29/7/17
“Turner the French Bull dog came to live with us at his “for every home” in January 2017. It quickly became obvious that he was a reactive dog and did not respond well to other dogs or animals. Having no experience in this before I was recommended to speak to Sue and Leah. I was a little apprehensive having only ever seen Barbara Woodhouse on the T.V. Sue and Leah came to visit and I could not be more delighted. Their calm confident aura was apparent from the start. They bonded with Turner straight away and have guided me on how to help Turner become less reactive. They have gently passed their knowledge on to me so that I now feel I have the confidence required to tackle confrontational situation and work with Turner to eliminate the reactive side of his otherwise wonderful personality. Thank you Sue and Leah for helping our family.”Jo Rowland April 2017
Bonnie;
“Sue has changed my life for the better! Today was another example of how far my once unruly cross breed has come. We met professional dog walkers with several dogs off lead. She went over but when I called her back she came straight away and sat waiting for a treat! She still tried to jump up and lick the man but at least she didn’t cause any bother with their dogs. Thank you so much Sue walks are now so much more pleasurable and less stressful” Rachel Thompson, Esher, July 2018
Sid:
"I would like to thank Sue for all her help with Sid my miniature Dachshund, after her first visit I felt so much more confident, she gave me lots of ideas and tips to improve Sid's behaviour and build his confidence. I arranged a walk
with her and her gorgeous dog Chip.
When meeting other dogs Sid had always shown aggression towards them, Sue showed me that he is actually quite a nervous dog and how I could build his confidence. With Sue’s help Sid’s behaviour is much improved especially around other dogs, and both of us have gained a lot of confidence, thank you Sue."
Sue Stack 24/8/18
















My Qualifications and Experience
Following a career change in my fifties, after working at Esher College for 15 years helping students find information in the Library, I took the leap to follow my dream and work with dogs. Although I had run the Surrey Ark Team of dog walkers/sitters and pet carers for 10 years it was only part time but then became my day job. During this time I gained a lot of hands on experience walking a variety dogs and dog sitting and there are not many dog issues I haven't dealt with.
I am a fully qualified, certified and experienced Dog Behaviour Specialist working cases since 2015. I am DBS checked and passed with Merit the full degree Advanced Diploma Applied Animal Behaviour level 6 on my journey to become a Clinical Dog Behaviourist. I practice force-free positive training methods which are science-based. I train and support you, as your dog's owner, to build your relationship with your dog and gain their trust, as once I have gone home, it will be down to you to make those changes. I am by your side throughout the transformation, as some issues take time and practice and I offer FREE calls/texts after the initial consultation for 3 months.
My Qualifications:
Advanced Diploma Applied Animal Behaviour Level 6, (Bachelor's Degree), Level 5 (Distinction) Foundation Degree (Compass) which is Accredited by the ABTC (Animal Behaviour Training Council) and Institute for Animal Care Education, also The Canine Behaviour Training Diploma with The Centre of Excellence with Distinction Level 3 (Accredited by the CPD), The Rommie 'Plant' with Meesh Masters, 'What Does it Mean to be Trauma Informed' Laura Donaldson, Aggression to Humans, Jean Donaldson and I am also a Member of the ISAP.


My Journey Into Dog Behaviour
How It All Began:
Ten years ago, my journey into dog behaviour began with our second rescue terrier cross, Chip, who came to us with a host of challenges. We had already adopted our first dog, Milo, from Battersea Dogs Home. When Milo turned three, we decided it was time for him to have a companion.After months of searching, we found 20-week-old Chip at the RSPCA Godstone. With two young children (ages 3 and 7), it had to be a puppy, but we were warned Chip wouldn’t be easy. He’d already been returned by an elderly lady who struggled to cope with him. The RSPCA assessed him as a "pushy dog" who needed an experienced family with another older dog to teach him manners.We brought Milo along to meet Chip, and the two got on well. Confident we were the right fit, we brought Chip home, and the real adventure began!
Life with Chip
Chip was the polar opposite of Milo, who had been an angel to train. Chip could have inspired a book like "Marley and Me"! From jumping out of a first-floor window and landing unscathed on the lawn to escaping our garden repeatedly, Chip kept us on our toes. He:Barked at guests to leave.Pulled like a freight train on walks.Chased cats, squirrels, and anything that moved.Experienced bouts of separation anxiety.Despite the challenges, I knew rehoming wasn’t an option. If we gave up on Chip, his chances of finding another home were slim, and I feared he might be euthanised. Instead, we persisted, trying every tool and technique available, and slowly, over time, things began to change.
The Transformation:
At 10 years old, Chip was a completely different dog! With my growing knowledge in dog behaviour, Chip became my guinea pig. He learned to walk calmly on a lead, no longer ran away on walks, and his separation anxiety was nearly cured. Friends who had known the "old Chip" couldn’t believe the transformation.He was my "once-in-a-lifetime" dog, and saying goodbye to him in December 2020 broke my heart. Chip taught me so much, and his journey inspired my mission to help other families and their dogs.
Fizz’s Story:
In 2018, I adopted Fizz, a one-year-old Romanian rescue. Her start in life was tragic:She had a broken rib and a docked tail and been bred from in her first season. Neglected and crated for most of her life in England, she lost all her fur due to flea infestations.Under-socialised and fearful, she was almost a "red zone" dog with little hope of finding a home.The moment I met her, I knew she needed someone who understood her. Despite her challenges, I saw potential in her and brought her home.
Rehabilitating Fizz:
Fizz had missed critical socialisation milestones, which left her hyper-vigilant and fearful. Through patience, positive methods, and understanding her unique needs as an ex-street dog, we’ve made incredible progress.She has learned to trust, play, and even welcome guests. While she still has fears around certain dogs due to her past experiences, she is a loving, loyal companion who has found her forever home with us.
Fizz has taught me invaluable lessons about the profound differences between street dogs and traditional rescues, and how punitive methods often fail – or worsen – their behaviour.
My Mission:
My experiences with Chip, Fizz, and countless rescue dogs have shaped my mission:To prevent families from giving up on their dogs.Rescue centres are overflowing, and up to 70% of unwanted dogs face euthanasia if homes aren’t found quickly. This breaks my heart, as so many of these situations could be prevented with a few effective interventions, patience, and guidance.I’m passionate about helping families and their dogs overcome behavioural challenges, so they can stay together and live harmoniously.
If I can save just one family and their dog from heartbreak, then I’ve done my job.



I was invited to speak on BBC Radio Surrey and Sussex on 26th January 2020 by Nicky Patrick on her 'Fifteen Minutes of Fame' slot all about The Surrey Ark and Dog Behaviour Training. Here is the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x1aoIJ0BM-8
BBC Radio Surrey


Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly TV Programme
I had a call from the ‘Dog’s Behaving (Very) Badly team asking if we could help professionally handling our dogs around some reactive dogs that Graham Hall was training. My daughter, Leah and myself took our old dog Chip and Rolo, one of our clients dogs who were superstars, see photo. The episode was shown on Channel 5 in February 2020. Whilst it was interesting to take part from the inside, there is a lot of editing is all I will say.
TV/Internet Dog trainers all have their own individual approaches and many are less qualified than I am, remember this is an unregulated industry. I do not agree with aversive methods and my own methods are force free methodology using positive reinforcement.
Just some of my clients
BBC Radio Surrey & Sussex
These Terms and Conditions are for clients of Mendmydog Dog Behaviourist
They are designed for the safety, responsibility and welfare of clients and animals while undergoing any sessions or consultations. We reserve the right to change and update these terms and conditions at any time with immediate effect. If any changes are made while undergoing or prior to sessions/consultations we will endeavour to inform you at the earliest convenience. It is the client’s responsibility to fully read these terms and conditions and familiarise themselves when required.
Bookings
Bookings are to be made directly with Mendmydog via The Surrey Ark website or email where needed. These sessions/consultations will be confirmed in writing once booked.
Cost for your initial behaviour consultation is set at £150 for canine patients
Your initial behaviour consultation is booked for 1.5-2 hours. This will involve a lot of discussion of the behaviours displayed by your pet and introduction of management and training tasks. Follow up sessions (charged separately) will cover the implementation of more intensive behaviour modification changes.
Follow up sessions will work through the behaviour modifications and are charged at £70 per hour and can be booked in one-hour slots (
Ongoing support via Email or Phone will be provided for 3 months post the last consultation/session. Urgent problems will be responded within 24 hours, however non-urgent problems might have a longer lead time depending on caseloads at the time.
Intellectual Property Rights
All written, photographic and video material and logos are the sole property of Mendmydog and are not to be distributed without prior, written permission. In accessing our materials and written reports, you agree that you are using them for your personal, non-commercial use.
Blogs/social media and free to access videos have consent to be freely shared unless the client requests otherwise.
Disclaimer
We will not take responsibility for misinterpretation of advice. Many external factors influence behaviours and we cannot guarantee our training advice will be successful without controlling all of these other factors. If you have any questions after any session, we strongly recommend you to contact us for any clarifications.
Behaviour consultations are recommended to alter dangerous and stressful behaviours for both owners and pet. Animal aggression can cause injury, including fatalities. Treatment for aggression is not a guarantee of success and modifying behaviour does not assure the aggression will be successfully controlled. It is your responsibility to ensure safety of people and other animals with regards to your pet. Safety precautions will be advised and may include; limited access to people/animals, being kept on lead, wearing a muzzle and use of gates around the home. We cannot take responsibility for behaviour of your dog outside of training sessions.
During sessions/consultations you and your dog will be covered by insurance, including professional indemnity insurance and public liability insurance. However, we strongly recommend all dog guardians have pet insurance including third party liability cover addition.
If the client/handler does not follow advice given during the session and this leads to injury of family members, the pet, other animals or members of the public, the responsibility falls to the person not following guidance or their responsible person/persons.
If requested to have the pet restrained on a suitable lead, harness or room. It is requested to follow this advice unless instructed otherwise during the consultation/session.
Confidentiality
All client details will be kept safely under the Data Protection Act 2018.
No client details will ever be passed onto a third party.
You might be contact about services or offers by Email.
If you no longer would like to receive contact from Mendmydog, please let us know and we can remove your details at any point.
Photography
During sessions videos and photos might be taken which include your dog with/without family members. This might be to be shared with your vet (gait analysis or posture changes) or used for educational reasons.
This will be discussed with the primary owner before photos/videos taken.
These might be used for social media or marketing with owner’s consent.
No photos of children will be taken unless prior agreement of parent/guardian.
Delay of session/cancellations
We reserve the right to cancel any session/consultation at our discretion. It is infrequent but if Mendmydog need to reschedule a session, such as in an emergency or due to adverse weather conditions including extreme heat, you will be offered a replacement date suitable to your commitments.
If you or your pet has illness or injuries, please let us know at the soonest possibility, as it might be appropriate to delay the session.
If you need to re-arrange a booked session/consultation, we request 24-hour notice. If notice is less than 24-hours, full charging of the agreed payment is still required by the client.
Training Methods
During any sessions, if any methods or items which causes pain or fear, we will request to stop the action and suggest alternative suitable actions. If you do not comply, we reserve the right to immediately stop training without a refund.
We also strongly recommend you do not use these methods outside of the sessions/consultations.
Additional requirements
All dogs should be fully vaccinated, wormed and de-flead at the recommended regular intervals. Unless prior agreement has been made with Mendmydog.
It is the owners/handler’s responsibility to clear up after their dog has toileted on public ground.
Minors shall be under close supervision by their guardians/parents at all times.
Aggression behaviours or bite incidents must be declared on your history form prior to your initial consultation. This allows full prior preparation of your consultation to ensure a full risk assessment to accurate for any behaviour case.
All pets are required to have free access to water during any sessions/consultations.
This declaration sets out the terms on which Mendmydog accepts you for any service. Once you have booked a consultation or sessions you are accepting these terms and conditions and you will be bound by all of Mendmydog Terms and Conditions.”