Louise and her husky Noki

My love of animals started early, thanks to my Nana, who filled my childhood with Reader’s Digest wildlife books, nature documentaries, and boundless encouragement to explore the outdoors. She had a red setter, Paddy, and though I hardly remember him, he had a massive impact on my life. When I was really wee, I wandered off on a solo adventure and fell into the neighbour’s pond. It was Paddy who saved me from drowning. So between him and my Nana, I grew up with a deep respect for animals and the natural world, which has shaped every part of my life since.

That passion led me to study Equine Studies at college, followed by a BSc in Zoology at Aberystwyth University and a Master of Research in Biosciences. I had set my sights on a career in conservation and wanted to make a difference — but I ended up working in a genetics lab at SASA (Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture), focusing on plant genetics… mostly tatties. The work was challenging and I enjoyed it, but it wasn’t quite the hands-on, outdoor job I’d dreamed of — and there weren’t any animals in sight.

While I was still working at SASA, me and my other half, Dan, brought home Noktan — a sensitive, seven-month-old Siberian Husky from working lines. Alongside our full-time jobs, caring for him was a lot. We were lucky to have my mum helping out with walks most days and my Nana providing company while we were at work, but finding professional support was impossible, and we quickly realised we were on our own. I had to learn as I went, working hard to meet Noki’s needs and help him live his best life. That experience deepened my passion for canine behaviour and welfare, and planted the seed for what would grow into a whole new chapter in my life.

The long hours at a lab bench were taking their toll, and I was waking up most days in crippling agony with severe back pain. So when my role at SASA ended due to government cuts, it felt like the right moment to make a change. I took it as a sign to finally pursue something that had been quietly building in the background this whole time — something that gave me purpose, got me moving, and looked after my mental and physical health. I’d realised I was good at dog training, and that there was a real gap in the market for a walking service that supported dogs like Noktan.

I launched Freeland K9, offering Noki’s Walkies as a service specifically for dogs like my boy — the ones who don’t fit into your standard dog walking business model. I wanted to create something rooted in empathy, science, and what I’d learned firsthand. It wasn’t just about walkies — it was about wellbeing.

Since then, I’ve continued to develop my skills and experience by working with all sorts of dogs and their unique personalities. Now, I’m proud to be continuing my journey with Nick and the team at Esk Valley Dog Training. Our values align around working ethically, with integrity and kindness, to build strong, trusting relationships between dogs and their people.

For me, it feels like I’m finally doing work that truly matters — and I’m here to support others on their own journey toward calm, confident canine companionship.