Emily Thomas MIRVAP (ICH)
Helping Active Dog Owners enjoy a healthy life with their dogs by providing expert advice/training/equipment - | Canicross | Running With Dogs | Canine Fitness | Canine Rehabilitation | Canine Hydrotherapy
Gloucester, England, United Kingdom
1K followers
500+ connections
About
As Director of K9 Trail Time I have established myself as an industry leader in dog sports retail through experience, qualification and by providing exceptional, individual customer service.
It was my passion for the dog sports which led me to set up my first business in 2012, providing people with the information and equipment they need to take part in canicross & bikejor safely, giving lively dogs an enjoyable outlet for their energy, benefitting both dog and owner by introducing them to a more active lifestyle.
I found the sports as a result of having two very energetic rescue dogs who needed more than your regular ‘walk around the block’. I worked a full-time office job and needed a way to provide them with the exercise they needed, whilst being able to leave them at home knowing they wouldn’t be destructive as a result of boredom.
With the opening of the Canactive Hydrotherapy Centre I am now able to help dog owners rehabilitate, strengthen and condition their dogs whatever their situation and activities they take part in, in our specialised hydrotherapy treadmill. My background with athletic dogs means I can effectively devise tailored programmes to get the best results from a session to allow client dogs to live long, happy and active lives.
I have also benefitted from over 20 years of experience working part time with horses prior to 2002 and my University degree, where much of the research in rehabilitation originates.
I set up Canicross Coach in 2021 to further share my knowledge of dog sports combined with the ability to be able to identify potential physical problems in dogs early on so that any Canicross Coaches who train with us will be confident the dog is always being put first and the sport second. I am now growing a network of experienced and knowledgeable Coaches who can teach others how to get started canicrossing safely.
In 2022 myself, the small team at Canicross Coach and iPET Network launched the first-ever Ofqual regulated qualification in Canicross Coaching which aims to bring excellence and safety to the sport - the iPET Network Level 3 Award in Canicross Coaching.
I have owned many dogs of my own and currently have 4. My dog's conditions could have prevented them from enjoying the active lifestyle every dog owner wants for their dogs' health and happiness. However, with my experience and a combination of the right activity, including supportive strength and conditioning sessions in the treadmill and through specific exercises and care, they have lived active lives and maintained their fitness even in old age.
Articles by Emily
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Why so many people ran with their dogs during lockdown
Why so many people ran with their dogs during lockdown
By Emily Thomas MIRVAP (ICH)
Activity
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We are on the road again! This time to our favourite show in the North of England - The North East Dog Festival We are there all weekend with all…
We are on the road again! This time to our favourite show in the North of England - The North East Dog Festival We are there all weekend with all…
Shared by Emily Thomas MIRVAP (ICH)
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*NEW BLOG POST* The Price of a Canicross Harness Our thoughts on how to choose the best harness for your dog, no matter what your budget 🐾🐕 Link…
*NEW BLOG POST* The Price of a Canicross Harness Our thoughts on how to choose the best harness for your dog, no matter what your budget 🐾🐕 Link…
Shared by Emily Thomas MIRVAP (ICH)
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Well the British Bank Holiday weekend weather hasn’t disappointed 🙄 We’re are open in a fashion from now until about 1.00 pm today because sitting…
Well the British Bank Holiday weekend weather hasn’t disappointed 🙄 We’re are open in a fashion from now until about 1.00 pm today because sitting…
Shared by Emily Thomas MIRVAP (ICH)
Experience
Education
Licenses & Certifications
Publications
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Canicross: I took up running with my dogs, and have never looked back
Great British Life Online
Canicross has been a part of my life since 2009 when I was struggling with my rescue dog Tegan, who had separation anxiety and was destroying my home. I tried a number of different activities with her until someone suggested running with her, officially known as canicross, a sport I hadn’t heard of prior to this.
It became apparent very quickly that this was the activity I had been looking for to help channel her excess energy and working drive (she was a collie crossed with a husky)…Canicross has been a part of my life since 2009 when I was struggling with my rescue dog Tegan, who had separation anxiety and was destroying my home. I tried a number of different activities with her until someone suggested running with her, officially known as canicross, a sport I hadn’t heard of prior to this.
It became apparent very quickly that this was the activity I had been looking for to help channel her excess energy and working drive (she was a collie crossed with a husky) into something positive and it made a noticeable difference to her behaviour at home. In canicross I had found something which met both her physical and mental needs.
As an added bonus to our new-found hobby, I also lost weight, and within four months I had lost three-and-a-half stone, was much fitter, healthier and happier. -
Canicross Qualification Launched
Dogs Monthly
When creating the course, it was important to both Emily and Dawn, and iPET Network that the welfare of the dogs involved was at the heart of the qualification.
Emily added, “We have taken everything from a dog-centered approach, welfare of the dogs comes first and foremost in everything that we teach, and keeping the dogs safe at all times.”
Sarah Mackay and Fern Gresty founded the award-winning iPET Network, which creates high-quality Ofqual regulated qualification for people…When creating the course, it was important to both Emily and Dawn, and iPET Network that the welfare of the dogs involved was at the heart of the qualification.
Emily added, “We have taken everything from a dog-centered approach, welfare of the dogs comes first and foremost in everything that we teach, and keeping the dogs safe at all times.”
Sarah Mackay and Fern Gresty founded the award-winning iPET Network, which creates high-quality Ofqual regulated qualification for people working with animals.
They said, “iPET Network is delighted to have worked with Emily and Dawn to offer this excellent course.
“As well as our pet professionals, it is important to consider the welfare and safety of animals taking part in sports or exercise. So to have best practice available in this way is wonderful for the sport of canicross.” -
A beginner's guide to Canicross
Our Family Dog
If you’re a dog owner who enjoys running and being outdoors, Canicross could be just the thing for you. Read this guide written by Emily Thomas from K9 Trail Time to learn more about this increasingly popular pastime, discover the benefits for dogs – and their owners – and find out how you and your dog can get involved.
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Why are more people turning to canicross
Dogs Today Online
When the UK went into lockdown in March 2020 we found ourselves with a dilemma. We were only allowed out to exercise once a day and for those people who were used to complete freedom to exercise themselves and their dogs, this left them with a choice between their own outdoor exercise or that of their dog.
People started looking for solutions to this, so they could combine running with taking their dog out and many found the answer in the sport of canicross. Canicross is defined as cross…When the UK went into lockdown in March 2020 we found ourselves with a dilemma. We were only allowed out to exercise once a day and for those people who were used to complete freedom to exercise themselves and their dogs, this left them with a choice between their own outdoor exercise or that of their dog.
People started looking for solutions to this, so they could combine running with taking their dog out and many found the answer in the sport of canicross. Canicross is defined as cross country running attached to your dog and is a growing sport across the UK, Europe and worldwide, with dedicated leagues putting on races for dogs of any breed who enjoy running with their owner.
When you combine your exercise with your dogs, not only do you give your dog a good workout by getting them to take some of the pull (through specialist equipment of a harness, belt and bungee line) but you can also increase your own speeds and fitness by taking advantage of this additional power.
This gave people a few of things essential to well being and mental health during the lockdowns, which were the toughest times in the whole pandemic so far. -
Tips on running with your dog
Trail Running Magazine
Tips on running with your dog
Canicross is becoming more popular - here's how to do it safely
New research has revealed that the number of pets looked after by UK families has been on the rise during lockdown, with 3.2 million new households owning one since the start of the pandemic.
And, according to canicross specialists K9 Trail Time, running with dogs is becoming increasingly popular too.
The Gloucestershire-based company reported a 52% year-on-year increase in…Tips on running with your dog
Canicross is becoming more popular - here's how to do it safely
New research has revealed that the number of pets looked after by UK families has been on the rise during lockdown, with 3.2 million new households owning one since the start of the pandemic.
And, according to canicross specialists K9 Trail Time, running with dogs is becoming increasingly popular too.
The Gloucestershire-based company reported a 52% year-on-year increase in online sales for January.
However, with potentially so many new canicrossers, experts highlight safety concerns that need to be borne in mind.
K9 Trail Time has produced the following guide to making sure you have the right equipment and ensure a steady progression for your canine running companion. -
K9 Trail Time Blog
Word Press
I regularly post blogs about the activities we participate in and offer product features, training tips and more through the blog
Honors & Awards
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Diploma in Canine Myotherapy
Open College UK Limited
A theoretical diploma in canine myotherapy for which I achieved a distinction and entitles me to use 'Dip. Canine Myotherapy in my title
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Canine Anatomy & Physiology Diploma
Centre of Excellence
I completed the Canine Anatomy & Physiology Diploma in August 2022, accredited with the Quality Licence Scheme, gaining a Distinction, giving me 150 hours of CPD and a further understanding of the canine structures I am working with on a daily basis.
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iPET Network Level 3 Award in Canine Emergency First Aid
iPET Network
I completed the Level 3 Award in Canine Emergency First Aid with Rachel Bean to ensure I was up to date with my canine first aid.
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Strategic Alliance Partner with Canine Arthritis Management
Canine Arthritis Management
K9 Trail Time was awarded a strategic alliance partnership with Canine Arthritis Management because of our experience and knowledge in relation to canine anatomy, physiology, and our interest in and promotion of, responsible exercise of dogs of all ages.
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Small Business Sunday Award Winner
Theo Paphitis & the SBS Team
We won the SBS (Small Business Sunday) competition run by Theo Paphitis and were invited to meet him in person to claim our award in 2022 after not being able to collect it in 2021 due to Covid 19.
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CAM Advocate Level 1
Canine Arthritis Management
The CAM Advocate Level 1 is a canine professional’s guide to early identification and successful management of canine osteoarthritis.
Completion of CAMadvocate Level 1 entitles the canine professional to advertise their greater understanding of osteoarthritis in dogs, and through incorporation of their new knowledge into their professional work, they will offer their clients improved service provision.
Topics Included
• The subtle signs of arthritis in dogs and how to communicate your…The CAM Advocate Level 1 is a canine professional’s guide to early identification and successful management of canine osteoarthritis.
Completion of CAMadvocate Level 1 entitles the canine professional to advertise their greater understanding of osteoarthritis in dogs, and through incorporation of their new knowledge into their professional work, they will offer their clients improved service provision.
Topics Included
• The subtle signs of arthritis in dogs and how to communicate your findings
• The recognised veterinary practice procedures associated with canine osteoarthritis
• The multimodal approach to optimally managing canine osteoarthritis
• The pathophysiology of pain and interventions used to manage it
• The essential lifestyle, exercise and environmental adaptations required
• The importance of evidence-based understanding, and in what situations to apply it -
Canine Holistic Health & Therapy Diploma
Centre of Excellence
I completed the Canine Holistic Health & Therapy Diploma with a Distinction in December 2020, accredited by the Complementary Medical Association and the Quality Licence Scheme, giving me 150 hours of CPD.
The Diploma covered the Nutritional, Physical & Mental Health of the dog in addition to in depth modules covering a variety of holistic therapies such as herbs, homeopathy, essential oils and massage. -
Level 3 Canine Hydrotherapy Qualification
Hawksmoor Hydrotherapy
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Pet First Aider
CK9 Training
Awarded a certification in Pet First Aid
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Diploma in Pet Psychology
BSY
I gained a diploma in Pet Psychology whilst working for other organisations unrelated to Animal Welfare
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Join now to viewMore activity by Emily
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We’re just closing up the stand now for the day so we can prepare for the @canixuk party tonight 🎉 We’ll be open again from about 11.30am tomorrow…
We’re just closing up the stand now for the day so we can prepare for the @canixuk party tonight 🎉 We’ll be open again from about 11.30am tomorrow…
Shared by Emily Thomas MIRVAP (ICH)
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Come and see us at the CaniX Pembrey Races this Bank Holiday Weekend for lots of special offers & plenty of bargains to be had! We will be open…
Come and see us at the CaniX Pembrey Races this Bank Holiday Weekend for lots of special offers & plenty of bargains to be had! We will be open…
Shared by Emily Thomas MIRVAP (ICH)
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What are the 10 things you think people NEED to know about canicross? 🐾🐕 Download our free guide to the K9 Trail Time 10 things you NEED to know…
What are the 10 things you think people NEED to know about canicross? 🐾🐕 Download our free guide to the K9 Trail Time 10 things you NEED to know…
Shared by Emily Thomas MIRVAP (ICH)
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It's Friyay It is National Dog Day this week 📸 Without any comments, post a random picture of your dog to celebrate them 📸 #k9trailtime…
It's Friyay It is National Dog Day this week 📸 Without any comments, post a random picture of your dog to celebrate them 📸 #k9trailtime…
Shared by Emily Thomas MIRVAP (ICH)
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Do you want to be a K9 Trail Time Ambassador? 🐾 We are so, so grateful to our current & past ambassadors for all their support & many of them are…
Do you want to be a K9 Trail Time Ambassador? 🐾 We are so, so grateful to our current & past ambassadors for all their support & many of them are…
Shared by Emily Thomas MIRVAP (ICH)
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Canicross Myth - 'I can't canicross because my dog is older' ❌ You definitely can ✅ As long as you build up your training slowly & don't push your…
Canicross Myth - 'I can't canicross because my dog is older' ❌ You definitely can ✅ As long as you build up your training slowly & don't push your…
Shared by Emily Thomas MIRVAP (ICH)
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Are you running a canicross event? Register your event with us for free 🎉 We will upload it to our website where 1,000's of active dog owners…
Are you running a canicross event? Register your event with us for free 🎉 We will upload it to our website where 1,000's of active dog owners…
Shared by Emily Thomas MIRVAP (ICH)
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Let's talk about speed What tips do you have for working on your own speed when Canicrossing? #wisdomwednesday #canicrossrules #sharedwisdom…
Let's talk about speed What tips do you have for working on your own speed when Canicrossing? #wisdomwednesday #canicrossrules #sharedwisdom…
Shared by Emily Thomas MIRVAP (ICH)
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#toptiptuesday Don't scrimp on the strength training - trust me, I'm paying the price! 🤕 But both you & your dog will benefit from cross training…
#toptiptuesday Don't scrimp on the strength training - trust me, I'm paying the price! 🤕 But both you & your dog will benefit from cross training…
Shared by Emily Thomas MIRVAP (ICH)
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Quick shout out for our Canicross Coaching business as we're closing applications soon... 🌟 LAST CHANCE TO JOIN OUR SEPTEMBER QUALIFICATION…
Quick shout out for our Canicross Coaching business as we're closing applications soon... 🌟 LAST CHANCE TO JOIN OUR SEPTEMBER QUALIFICATION…
Shared by Emily Thomas MIRVAP (ICH)
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We're currently in one of our favourite places for running (just sadly not able to run) 🤕 The woods are the best place to enjoy the peace & quiet…
We're currently in one of our favourite places for running (just sadly not able to run) 🤕 The woods are the best place to enjoy the peace & quiet…
Shared by Emily Thomas MIRVAP (ICH)
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August Random Act of Kindness! Each month we are doing a random act of kindness & giving away something from our website to someone deserving…
August Random Act of Kindness! Each month we are doing a random act of kindness & giving away something from our website to someone deserving…
Shared by Emily Thomas MIRVAP (ICH)
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Just to show that I'm completely human (& totally scatty at times!) I forgot to announce last month's random act of kindness winner, I had the post…
Just to show that I'm completely human (& totally scatty at times!) I forgot to announce last month's random act of kindness winner, I had the post…
Shared by Emily Thomas MIRVAP (ICH)
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What our customers say... We pride ourselves on supporting our customers & are happy to say many of our clients are also now friends 🤗 While many…
What our customers say... We pride ourselves on supporting our customers & are happy to say many of our clients are also now friends 🤗 While many…
Shared by Emily Thomas MIRVAP (ICH)
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