Author profile - Ruth Weston

Ruth Weston became involved in dog training in 1981 when she took her Golden Retriever for lessons with David Weston who eventually became her partner in business and life. David developed the Gentle Modern Method of Dog Training™ and was the pioneer of motivational training using positive reinforcement techniques in Australia back in the late 1960's. As such he was about 20 years ahead of his time. In 1976 David formed The Kintala Club in Heidelberg, Victoria, where dogs are trained and socialised from eight weeks of age.

Ruth quickly became involved in The Kintala Club becoming an instructor and committee member in 1982 . She has been co-ordinator of the club's education sub committee for over 20 years which is responsible for training instructors from all over Victoria.

Ruth instigated the formation of The Australian Association of Gentle Modern Dog Training Instructors Inc. which is one of only three dog training organizations recognised under Victorian State Government legislation. Since the death of her husband David in 1998, Ruth has taken over the running of The Gentle Modern School of Dog Training in Melbourne with the help of other senior instructors.

Ruth describes her second Golden Retriever, Brook Ch.K.D., K.T.D. as very easy to train. Brook took part in many demonstrations to promote David and Ruth's books and appeared on a number of TV programs. Brook also reached the highest level of training in The Kintala Club passing Class 10, Gold class and becoming a tracking and therapy dog.

Ruth was instrumental in starting Pet Facilitated Therapy at her place of work where Brook and other club dogs have given a great deal of pleasure to elderly and disabled people as well as bringing tears to a number of eyes over many years.

David and Ruth had the good fortune to attend a course in Battle Ground, U.S.A. where they studied wolf behaviour at Wolf Park.

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