The Language of Compassion
Our Speaking Events integrate therapy dog demonstrations, uplifting storytelling, and the profound connection between humans and animals.
Subjects explored during our presentations include:
- Cultivating Empathy
- Nurturing Emotional Intelligence
- Prioritising Self-Care
- Mastering Effective Communication
- Adapting to Diverse Learning Styles
- Fostering a Culture of Kindness
Our presenter is Sarah Macdonald.
Looking for a Dynamic Speaker for Your Next Event?
Sarah Macdonald's CV
Sarah is a dynamic leader, dedicated to inspiring and shaping a brighter future for the communities she serves. Her innovative approach to education and mental health has earned recognition and accolades, reflecting her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact with well-trained therapy dogs.
Education:
Bachelor of Arts (History/Politics) - University of Notre Dame, Australia
Master of Teaching (Secondary)- Australian Catholic University (ACU)
Dog Trainer Certification - Alpha Canine Group
Professional Experience:
Founder and CEO of Canine Comprehension
Designed and managed unique programs that bring therapy dogs to schools, positively influencing countless children's lives.
Empowered students to embrace mental health awareness and readiness for learning through the presence of therapy dogs.
Extended services to provide mentoring and support for children facing social anxiety, fostering resilience and personal growth.
Education and Events Officer, Royal Australian College of General Practitioners - National Faculty of Specific Interests
Developed Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programs for General Practitioners (GPs).
Provided curriculum development guidance to enhance GP training.
Contributed to advancing healthcare education and professional development for GPs.
Educator, Avila College, Mt Waverley
Taught Humanities, IT, and English to students from Year 7 to VCE.
Held the position of Head of Department for General Studies.
Developed a deep understanding of the intersection of mental health and education, driving a passion for promoting student well-being.
Extensive experience as a professional dog trainer.
Alpha Canine Group - Boronia, Macclesfield & Knoxfield locations
Group class dog Trainer
Dog Boarding training packages
Specialising in fear and aggression
Canine Comprehension - Melbourne CBD and outer suburbs
Puppy trainer - Eltham Vet & Balwyn Veterinary Surgery
In-home training packages
'Pathway to Employment' Dog Assisted Learning courses
Training Approach
I use games, commands and exercises to teach dogs communication through tonal contrast and balanced consequences, ensuring ethical learning outcomes for the dog and a manageable 'lifestyle' approach for the owners. An expectation of teaching simple manners and clear expectations in all environments will build a solid human-canine bond with the owner/handler as the leader. This approach allows dogs to think independently while seeking the behaviour their owner requires from them to give their dog a happy, peaceful and healthy life.
Awards and Recognitions:
Commonwealth Bank Australian of the Day
Silver Stevie® Award for Female Entrepreneur of the Year (Asia, Australia, or New Zealand)
Nomination in the Animal Assisted Learning (AAL) Category at the Animal Assisted Therapies Ltd Conference Awards
Finalist at the Australian Small Business Champion Awards
Australian Achievers Award for excellence in customer relations
Skills:
Educational Leadership
Mental Health Advocacy
Animal-Assisted Therapy
Program Development
Public Speaking
Dog training