About us

My name is Shirley Hamilton, the founder of doggies and soul. 

I was initially born and lived in Scotland for many years. I came to Sydney in 1998. I trained as a mental health nurse in Scotland. During the last 37 years I've worked in various areas of mental health and provided counselling on an individual and group basis.

My love for dogs began at a young age, and has continued throughout my life.

My initial interest, in dog massage, began when one of my elderly dogs (Toots) began to suffer from osteoarthritis. This caused her extreme pain, which forced her body to compensate with incorrect posture and movement when she walked, which lead to decreased flexibility and more discomfort. I witnessed how dog massage gave her relief, increased her range of movement and assisted positive changes in her body.

I live in Sydney with my partner and three dogs. Two of them have been with me since they were pups. Efi and Isla (the twins who are 16). I adopted a blind old fella with various medical problems from a rescue organisation 3 years ago. He is a little character who lives life to the full. Sadly Toots passed away almost 2 years ago.

As a professionally qualified counsellor I want to continue to use these skills and experience. Pet bereavement/loss was formed as result.

My personal experience of my own dogs dying and the grief  accompanied with it made me recognise that there is a lack of support out there for pet owners who lose their beloved animal.

Volunteer work with dogs is one of my passions and I feel grateful and humble for this experience. I will continue to volunteer with rescue organisations to provide CMT (Canine Myofunctional therapy) to the dogs who are waiting to be rehomed. 

As a fully qualified Canine Myofunctional Therapist I thrive to provide therapeutic dog massage to enhance quality of life making the dog healthier and happier.

In working with pet bereavement /loss I offer a safe confidential space for pet owners to express their grief. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

Certificate of Canine Myofunctional Therapy (National College of traditional medicine, Victoria)

Registered Mental Health Nurse (Glasgow, Scotland)

Masters Degree in Public Health (UNSW, Sydney)

Post graduate Diploma in Person Centred Therapy (University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland)

Post graduate Diploma in Family Therapy (Relationships Australia)

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS:

Member of SAENA

Member of PCT (Scotland)

Member of AHPRA

Member of ACSA (clinical supervision)

Member of ACA.

I have a recent police check

I am fully insured

I am committed to adhering to the professional standards that are set within the code of conduct for each of these professional affiliations