At The Canine School of Trailing, we love sharing the experiences of our dedicated instructors and learning about their personal journeys. Today, Rachel, Co-Founder of The Canine School of Trailing, sat down with Aidy, one of our affiliated instructors, to talk about his passion for trailing and the impact it’s had on his life and his dogs. From his beginnings as a handler to becoming an instructor, Aidy’s story is one filled with love, learning, and transformation. Let’s dive in.
Rachel: When did you affiliate with The Canine School of Trailing?
Aidy: I officially affiliated on August 29th, 2024. It’s been an incredible journey leading up to that moment, and affiliating has really deepened my commitment to trailing!
Aidy trailing with his dog, a husky
Rachel: What was your favorite part of the instructor course?
Aidy: There were so many highlights, it’s hard to pick just one! The course was actually a birthday gift from my partner, and I have to say, it’s the best birthday gift I’ve ever received. Learning the ins and outs of laying trails was fascinating—there’s so much going on behind the scenes that as a customer you don’t really get to notice.
I’ve been able to take everything I learned and apply it when running sessions now. I love explaining to handlers why we do certain things when laying a trail. It adds another layer of understanding for them, and I think it helps them appreciate the work their dogs are doing even more.
Rachel: What’s been the most rewarding part of becoming an instructor?
Aidy: Seeing the joy on the handlers’ faces when their dogs succeed—it’s just priceless. I know that feeling so well from working with my own dogs, and being able to give other handlers that same experience is really special. It feels like such a privilege to be part of those moments when someone realizes just how incredible their dog is. I love being able to help create those memories and strengthen the bond between handlers and their dogs.
Rachel: How long have you been trailing?
Aidy: I started trailing in March 2022, and I was hooked right from the start. Trailing has become a huge part of my life, and I’ve been passionate about it ever since.
Aidy’s dog Rosco sitting proudly with her Canine School of Trailing certificate and rosette!
Rachel: Tell us about your trailing experience and the dogs you work with.
Aidy: We originally started trailing with our older dog, Rosco, who’s a Rottie x Lab mix. At 13 years old, her arthritis made it impossible for her to keep up with agility and hoopers, and she seemed to lose some of her spark. Trailing changed that completely—it gave her a new purpose, and suddenly she was excited and happy again. It’s really given us our girl back.
Now, we have two other dogs who trail as well. Ares is our goofy Husky. I took him to his first session thinking it would be fun, but I didn’t expect much from him—he’s always been a bit of a character. But to my surprise, he was fantastic! Trailing really brings out his focus, and it’s one of the few things that can actually tire him out.
Then there’s Tadzi, our Malamute x Husky. He’s a bit more laid-back, a real plodder compared to the other two, but he’s still good at trailing in his own way. What’s been fascinating for me is seeing how different each of their styles are. Each dog brings their own personality and approach to trailing, and I’ve been lucky to witness that firsthand.
Rachel: What’s your favorite part about trailing?
Aidy: For me, it’s the feeling of being a team with your dog. Trailing has so many great aspects, but the teamwork element is what really stands out. The first time we were called “Team Rosco,” it meant the absolute world to me. We’ve done plenty of other dog sports over the years, but trailing is the one that truly feels like a partnership. You and your dog are working together, and it builds such a strong bond.
Rachel: Do you have any funny or heartwarming stories from your time trailing?
Aidy: The most emotional part for me has been seeing the change in Rosco. She really did seem to grow old when she had to stop her previous activities, and it was heartbreaking. But trailing has brought her back to life—she’s happier, more engaged, and it’s like we’ve got our old dog back again. That, to me, has been the biggest gift of all.
Aidy and his customer and their dog as they approach the runner
Rachel: How has the support from the instructor course impacted your journey?
Aidy: I’ve been lucky to get to know both you and Marilyn through trailing and while completing the instructor’s course. Having the support and backing from two instructors who are so highly qualified and maintain such high standards has meant a lot to me. It’s given me confidence in my own abilities, and I feel like I’ve gained so much from your mentorship.
Rachel: It’s been great hearing your story, Aidy! Where can people follow your journey?
Aidy: Thanks, Rachel! You can follow me on Facebook and Instagram at Scent 2 Success, where I share all about our trailing adventures.
Aidy’s passion for trailing and the bond he’s built with his dogs are inspiring to all of us at The Canine School of Trailing. His journey from handler to instructor has been one filled with learning, growth, and joy, and we are proud to have him as part of our team. Stay tuned for more stories from our wonderful instructors and handlers!
If you’re interested in becoming an instructor email admin@thecanineschooloftrailing.co.uk to find out more!