Overseas Rescue Dog Support in Surrey & West Sussex
Specialist behaviour support for ex-street dogs in Surrey, West Sussex & Kent
Welcoming an ex-street dog into your life can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also be extremely challenging.
Sudden behaviour changes can occur, confusing owners who thought things were going well. Or behavioural issues such as aggression, fear or unexplained anxiety can develop over time, often not responding to traditional dog training methods, leaving owners unsure how to help them.
Here’s the thing: overseas rescue dogs are different. Unlike your friendly neighbourhood golden retriever who was bred to be friendly, these dogs have (usually) been born on the streets & raised by mother nature, whose only focus is survival and safety.
That’s why working with someone who understands overseas rescues and their behaviour is important.
Based in Redhill, Surrey and covering Surrey, West Sussex and Kent, I provide specialist behavioural services for ex-street dogs, focused on problem prevention and lasting behaviour change.
Client Testimonials
Overseas Rescue Dog Behaviour Specialist
How I Can Help You
Personalised support for every stage of life with your rescue dog.
Before Your Rescue Arrives
Rescue Preparation
£160
A 2 hour session, helping owners prepare for the arrival of their overseas rescue dog, avoid common mistakes and ask any questions.
- 2 Hour session (in-person or online).
- Access to a rescue preparation guide covering all the information from our session.
- Personalised recommendations for arranging your home, introducing your family and navigating the first weeks with your rescue dog.
- Direct support for the first 2 weeks after your dog's arrival.
- Discounts on follow-up training.
first weeks at home
Settling in Support
£475
A 1:1 support programme helping overseas rescue dogs settle into their new life and overcome any challenges that occur.
- A structured, 6 session programme.
- Comprehensive assessment of your dogs movement, posture and gait to identify areas of potential pain.
- Personalised settling in plan based on you, your dog and lifestyle.
- Access to guides on helping your rescue settling and understanding their behaviour.
- Direct support throughout the programme.
Problems already occurring
Behaviour Support
From £400
1:1 behaviour support for owners who are already struggling with their rescue dog’s behaviour – aggression, anxiety and fear specialist.
- A comprehensive assessment of your rescue dog's behaviour and life.
- Personalised behaviour report & vet report.
- Step-by-step training guides and videos.
- Optional follow-up training sessions.
- Direct support throughout the programme
Overseas rescue dog specialist
Hi, I’m Anthony Lennard a fully qualified and experienced dog trainer and behaviourist specialising in working with overseas rescue dogs who are adjusting to their new life. I focus on identifying the root causes of behavioural issues and implementing specific training to address them.
- Romanian Rescue Pro Trainer with Meesh Masters (The Dog's Point of View)
- Qualified with IMDT, ABTC, PACT & Dynamic Dog
- Level 6 qualification in dog behaviour
- Vet recommended
- Force free and effective approach to dog behavioural issues
Over the years, I’ve worked with many overseas rescue dogs and have come to realise that they are very unique and require a different approach to UK dogs. This has led to me offering specific services dedicated to overseas rescues.
What makes overseas rescue dogs unique?
I often speak to owners who are struggling with their rescue dog’s behaviour and have already tried training without seeing the results they expected, leaving them unsure about what to do for the best and wondering why their dog didn’t respond as they expected. Here are 4 of the main reasons why overseas dogs behave and react differently compared to UK dogs.
Safety First
Most overseas rescue dogs have grown up living and navigating situations that require them to prioritise self preservation and safety over everything else.
Increased Independance
Most ex-street dogs have grown up without an owner or any rules, this means they are used to making their own decisions and doing what they want to.
Increased Survival Instincts
Due to their need for safety, overseas rescue dogs are naturally inclined to spot “danger” or “threats” easily. This can lead to increased stress, anxiety fear and reactivity.
Hunting & Protective Instincts
Overseas rescue dogs usually have heightened hunting and protective behaviours, which are needed to survive on the streets but can cause problems in UK life.
The above aren’t specific to overseas rescues and UK dogs will have these chracteristics too. However, it’s important for rescue owners to know that the above are usually more common and ingrained in their rescue dog. That isn’t to say they are bad, it’s just part of what makes an overseas rescue dog unique, requiring a different approach.
Areas Covered
- Caterham
- Copthorne
- Coulsdon
- Crawley
- Dorking
- Dormansland
- East Grinstead
- Edenbridge
- Gatwick
- Godstone
- Haywards Heath
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes your approach to overseas rescue dogs different?
Overseas rescue dogs often have very different life experiences to dogs bred and raised in UK homes. Many have lived as free-roaming street dogs, experienced trauma, lacked early socialisation or never lived in a home before arriving in the UK.
Alongside extensive experience working with overseas rescues, I’ve completed specialist training in overseas rescue dog behaviour and continue to work with dogs from a wide range of countries, including Romania, Cyprus, Greece and Spain.
My approach goes beyond simply teaching training exercises. I take the time to understand each dog’s background, emotional state, physical health and individual needs, creating tailored support that helps owners build trust, confidence and a successful life together.
How do I know which programme is right for me?
If you’re still waiting for your rescue dog to arrive, Rescue Preparation is the best place to start. If your dog has recently arrived and you want guidance during those important first few months, the Settling In Programme is designed for you. If your dog is already displaying behavioural issues such as fear, anxiety, aggression or reactivity, the Beyond Behaviour Programme will provide a more appropriate level of support.
My rescue dog doesn't come from Romania. Can you still help?
Absolutely. Although I completed specialist training focused on Romanian rescue dogs, the principles also apply to many overseas rescue dogs from countries such as Cyprus, Greece, Spain and Bosnia. Every dog is assessed as an individual, taking into account their history, experiences and current behaviour.
Do you only work with dogs that have behavioural problems?
No. Many owners simply want guidance to help their rescue settle into their new home and avoid behaviour problems developing later. Early support is often much easier than trying to resolve established issues.
What training methods do you use?
My approach is entirely force-free and centred around understanding why your dog is behaving the way they are. Rather than simply trying to stop unwanted behaviours, we work to identify and address the underlying causes while teaching practical skills that help your dog cope more successfully.
How soon after adoption should I get in touch?
Ideally, before your dog arrives. Early guidance can help prevent many common mistakes and make the transition less stressful for both you and your dog. However, it’s never too late to ask for help if you’re already experiencing difficulties.
Would you like help with your overseas rescue dog?
You can either book a free, 30-minute discovery call or send me a message.