Margaret Thomson, a legendary dog trainer, has been at the helm of dog training classes at Tealing Hall in Angus for nearly 40 years. With a passion for pets, she has transformed the lives of countless dogs, from playful puppies to stubborn seniors.
Margaret's approach is simple: make training fun while ensuring dogs obey commands. She runs four obedience sessions every Monday evening and 'Ringcraft' classes on Tuesdays, helping dogs prepare for the show ring.
Her dedication has not gone unnoticed. In March 2023, she was awarded 'best dog trainer of the year' at the Local Pet Awards Scotland. This recognition highlights her hard work and the impact she has on the local dog community.
Margaret's journey began with a love for dogs. Inspired by the Kennel Club's judging and training schemes, she started showing her dogs and eventually decided to teach independently. Her classes attract participants from across Tayside and even Fife.
She believes that no dog is too difficult to train. With patience and perseverance, any dog can learn to behave. Her Monday classes focus on obedience and socialization, with opportunities for dogs to earn Kennel Club Good Citizen awards.
In addition to training, Margaret is active in the charity Pets As Therapy. She assesses therapy dogs and brings her gentle Rottweilers into schools and nursing homes, where they provide comfort to those in need.
Margaret is a lifelong fan of Rottweilers, having owned several over the years. She is keen to change any negative perceptions about the breed, emphasizing their loving nature. For her, dogs are not just pets; they are family.
Ultimately, Margaret's work is driven by her love for dogs and a desire to help owners train them effectively. When she's not training, she enjoys bingo and line dancing, but her heart always remains with her furry friends.