Now Kennel Manager at Reaseheath College and University Centre in Nantwich, the 22-year-old who graduates at Chester Cathedral this week has combined her studies, research, and personal experience to make a real difference in the field of canine behaviour.
As Reaseheath celebrates its Class of 2025 on November 6th, Niamh stands out as both a graduate and a practitioner shaping the future of canine welfare and education.
Having completed her FdSc in Canine Behaviour and Training and her BSc (Hons) in Canine Behaviour, graduating with First-Class Honours, she’s already inspiring others through her research and work on campus.
Her personal journey with Blu, her medical assistance dog, has inspired much of Niamh’s academic experience. The German Shepherd not only supports Niamh in daily life but also sparked her determination to better understand how dogs think, communicate, and connect with people.
“Training Blu made me realise just how rewarding it is to help dogs change lives, the same way she helps me. That bond has shaped my studies and career, given me the confidence to step out of my comfort zone, and inspired me to challenge stereotypes around assistance dogs. They’re not machines; they’re living, thinking animals with their own quirks and personalities, and that’s what makes them remarkable partners.”
That personal connection inspired Niamh’s academic research. Her final-year dissertation, An Investigation into the Use of Immersive Room Technology and Its Impact on Recognising Dog Body Language, explored how 360° immersive video could help people better interpret canine stress signals – a vital skill for improving welfare and preventing aggression-related incidents.
“I did this research because it’s extremely important for people to understand their dogs’ behaviours to improve the safety and welfare of both themselves and, most importantly, the dog,” she explains.
Niamh’s work earned national recognition when she presented her research at the British Conference of Undergraduate Research (BCUR) earlier this year.
“Presenting at BCUR was really exciting, and I found that I actually enjoy presenting to bigger audiences. There were a few questions at the end which was nice to see people engaging. This opportunity has given me the confidence to continue presenting my research.”
Alongside her academic achievements, Niamh has been working in the canine industry since 2020, training medical assistance dogs, supporting behaviour modification, and managing the Reaseheath kennels. Her partnership with Blu continues to shape her approach to welfare, training, and education.
Most recently, Niamh shared her insights through Reaseheath’s Public Lecture Series, with a well-attended talk titled Paws and Perception: Myths and Realities in Assistance Dog Training, exploring the individuality of assistance dogs and the realities of life with them.
Looking ahead, she hopes to qualify as a Certified Clinical Animal Behaviourist (CCAB) while continuing to expand her training career.
“Reaseheath has given me so many opportunities – from studying to research to presenting nationally. My goal now is to keep learning and to help more people understand the incredible ways dogs communicate with us.”
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