the team behind connect&paws...
Dr Jacqueline Kurio
Jacqueline Kurio PhD is a teacher, artist, facilitator, consultant, and researcher specialising in healing with nature. Called into this work following a unitive experience with the ocean after experiencing the Tohoku earthquake in Japan in 2011, Jacqueline has gone on to research and write about some of the many ways in which humans are able to open ourselves up to communicating and relating with the living world.
Two of her preferred methods for healing with nature include drawing and walking labyrinths, and the practice of shinrin yoku (forest bathing & water gazing), both of which she will be offering at our connect&paws weekend.
You can read more about Jacqueline’s work at Earthly Encounters on Substack. She also posts on IG as jaq.kurio
Sarah Loveland Photography
Sarah Loveland has been a professional photographer for 24 years and is dog mum to Ted, Reo and Inca. Sarah believes that taking pictures is something that can be enjoyed by everyone and does 1 to 1 lessons to help people get the best from their cameras and phone cameras.
If you love taking pictures of your dog(s) join Sarah in the tipi where she will give you some great ideas and tips so that you and your dog can have fun together with your camera. Learn to capture those cute moments as a well as the crazy action ones.
If you love taking pictures or always find yourself rushing around, join Sarah on a photography wander with your camera or phone camera. Slow down and notice the details around you. Great fun for everyone!
You can find out more about Sarah at sarahlovelandphotography,com
Jo Odom, Cannect Clinical Canine Massage
Hi I’m Jo, I am from Ripon in North Yorkshire and I run Cannect Clinical Canine Massage. I called my business Cannect specifically because I wanted it to capture the connection that is built in the therapeutic relationship between the practitioner and the dog involving communication and trust.
I have three dogs all of whom have taken part in sled dog sports and I currently compete in bikejor with my Eurohound Raven. I first discovered Clinical Canine Massage Therapy through the sport, and was motivated to study the discipline in order to support my Golden Retriever Polly who had bilateral hip dysplasia. I studied for two years with the Canine Massage Therapy Centre, on their Lantra accredited course to become a practitioner. I am a member of the Canine Massage Guild.
In Clinical Canine Massage we use Swedish, deep tissue, sports massage and myofascial release and the Lenton Method ™. The Lenton Method is a scientifically supported, results-driven approach to canine massage therapy, developed by Natalie Lenton. This method has been clinically validated through large-scale studies, including a notable trial involving 527 dogs, which demonstrated significant improvements in pain severity and mobility after just one to three sessions
In my practice I rehabilitate soft tissue injuries commonly seen as lameness, stiffness and limping. I also help with chronic pain management and treatment for orthopaedic conditions such as hip dysplasia and arthritis. I also treat sports dogs looking to improve performance and reduce the risk of injuries.
At connect&paws, I’ll be running sessions to support you all to recognise some of the signs of muscular pain in dogs, and also have a go massage, showing you how to use some of the foundations of this practice to connect with your dogs.
Louise Humphrey, Studio 44 Pilates
I'm Louise Humphrey, founder of the Pilates for Runners Online Membership at Studio 44 Pilates. With over 25 years' experience as a personal trainer and Pilates teacher, I’m passionate about helping runners stay strong, mobile, and injury-free — at every stage of life.
As a lifelong runner myself, I understand firsthand how regular Pilates can transform your running, improving strength, mobility, and resilience. I’ll be sharing techniques designed specifically for runners to help you move better, run stronger, and stay active for longer.
My journey into the world of Canicross began when my energetic black Labrador, who failed gundog school due to her unstoppable prey drive, needed a new outlet. Canicross not only strengthened her mind but created an incredible bond between us — and showed me just how demanding this sport can be on both human and canine bodies.
Through my own experience, I appreciate the physical demands Canicross places on us, and why building a strong, flexible, and well-aligned body is essential, especially as we age. I’m excited to share my knowledge and help you and your dog thrive, both on and off the trails!
Mel Grier
Hi, I’m Mel! I teach Core Strength Vinyasa yoga – a vinyasa based class with integrated core strength and a lovely basis in anatomy – how our bodies work. By day I’m a lecturer in Fitness, Health and Exercise and have over 25 years experience in the fitness industry. Participating in and teaching yoga has been and continues to be a journey for me - learning to go with the flow and finding a balance between movement and stillness which is often lost in fitness training.
This core aspect of these classes is not about doing loads of sit ups. Poses are built from the ground up with options for all levels, using core integrated movement. It’s a great way to move and breathe. Plus the session will finish with a lovely savasana (rest & reflect) my absolute favourite part of yoga 🧘♀️ .. and an optional dip in the sea!
Come give it a go, look forward to seeing you on your mat!
Northern Mantrailing
Hi I’m Helen and I have owned dogs for many years. I am a Mantrailing Global Accredited instructor. Mantrailing is a sport teaching dogs to find people by following their unique scent trail. Any dog can trail, even if they can't be let off lead, are nervous or reactive and it is suitable for any age.
I am currently ‘owned’ by 2 Working Cocker Spaniels, Stan and Frank who are both crazy about mantrailing. Stan is the older and more experienced dog, however Frank started mantrailing from being 15 weeks old and is maturing and building confidence as we progress.
I am passionate about keeping dogs active, happy and healthy and provide a friendly non-competitive environment for dogs and handlers to progress through their training. I love meeting new teams and I am always amazed how individual teams trail, no two dogs are the same!
I will be offering have-a-go mantrailing sessions at connect&paws.
Rachel, LIFE Holistic Therapies
More information coming soon.
Renee McGregor
Renee is a leading Sports Dietitian with over 20 years of experience working in clinical and performance nutrition. She has managed sport science teams leading into the Rio 2016 and provided team management on numerous occasions at major championships in a variety of sports.
She is one of the leading voices in the country in Athlete Health, The Female Athlete, REDs and hormonal health.
Renee is the founder of Team Renee McGregor, managing a leading multi-disciplinary team of practitioners, specialising in supporting individuals of all ages in their sporting endeavours and providing expert advice to athletes seeking support for a dysfunctional relationship with food and training.
This is reflected in her work on social media too, priding herself on proving an educational hub for both the professional and everyday athlete.
She is a Montane athlete and also a trustee for Black Trail Runners, supporting and advocating the importance of increased diversity and accessibility to minority groups to the outdoors.
When not inspiring others with her incredible work, Renee can be found running the mountains and chasing the trails, around her home in The Lake District.
We will be showing Renee's film, 'Unfiltered' on Saturday evening, followed by a Q&A with Renee.
Holly Barker, Sport Dog Nutrition
More information coming soon.
Robson & Prescott Vets
More information coming soon.
more details coming soon...
about our hosts...
Non-stop dogwear was founded in Norway in 2009 with a mission to create better gear for dogs and their owners to unleash their potential.
Our journey began with Hårek, a talented skijoring dog whose performance was limited by traditional harnesses that restricted his movement and breathing. Determined to find a better solution, we developed the Freemotion harness - a revolutionary design that gave Hårek the freedom to move and breathe naturally. This innovation became our first product and set a new standard for freedom of movement and unrestricted breathing in dog gear.
Driven by the same passion today, we continue to design durable, ergonomic, and performance-driven gear that helps dogs live active, enjoyable lives. Our products are made to fit properly and support dogs’ natural abilities because comfort and safety should never be compromised.
Trusted by top athletes, search and rescue teams, the military, and dog lovers worldwide, our gear is built on Norwegian design and innovation. Now available in over 2,000 stores across 58 countries, we remain committed to helping dogs and their humans explore the outdoors, push their limits, and strengthen their bond with every adventure.
Founded in 2019, TRAILDOG Events organise inclusive canicross events around the North East. We have a real focus on enjoying the time spent outdoors with your best friend; whether you're competing for the podium, plodding or walking the course. We are lucky to host at some absolutely stunning and exclusive venues, so why not take in the surroundings!
We started our first season with 2 events; one in Chopwell Wood and one at Cragside National Trust. We now have a full calendar of events with something new added each season.
Our season consists of the UltiMutt 5k obstacle course, a series of 5 events called The Collective (which take place at Raby Castle, Drruidge Bay, Wallington National Trust, a night run at Druridge Bay and Kielder Waterside), a MultiSport event and for next season a very exciting new venue which is top secret for now!
