What we do.

At both ends of the leash we help those who are in the process of getting a puppy to train as their assistance dog, or who already have a dog /puppy to train as an assistance dog.

Our Assistance Dog and Handler Coaching Program is flexible to be individually designed for each team using the same foundation in which our training is built upon.

We are relationship centred trainers and believe that the human-animal bond is everything when training a potential assistance dog. This is why it is one of the 3 pillars of foundation for the training program.

We understand that each team is unique and has individual needs and goals that they are aiming for on their journey.

Our aim is to meet each individual where they are and help build their confidence, their capacity and independence with the aid of their assistance dog by their side. This is why we are called Both Ends of The Leash, because we work with both the human and the dog equally.

We have experience training assistance dogs for with psychiatric support, medical alert and mobility, however we do not train Guide or Hearing Dogs.

We are located in South East Queensland, and currently train teams in the areas of Sunshine Coast, Brisbane & Surrounding Areas, Ipswich, Gold Coast.

If you think an assistance dog might be right for you, please check out our Assistance Dogs Information page , or get in contact with us, we would love to hear how we can support you on your assistance dog journey.

Who we are.

Briahne Kelly - Owner | Head Trainer & Coach

After spending many years traveling the world and working with horses, I discovered a profound connection between the training and healing that comes from the unconditional love and understanding of animals.
For the past seven years, I've dedicated myself to studying dog behaviour and body language, starting with pet dogs and transitioning into training assistance dogs.

My own journey of having a lived experience began with a personal healing path of becoming a yoga instructor, a Mindfulness Coach and a Breathwork Facilitator. I use my coaching methods of mindfulness, breath, understanding the importance of emotional regulation as well as the nervous system to empower my clients in self-regulation.
This holistic approach has been transformative for both myself and my clients.

A significant turning point in my life was training my Aussie Shepherd-Border Collie, Sukha, as my Assistance Dog. Sukha's ability to sense changes in my emotional and physiological states serves as a gentle reminder to remain part of the solution and return to a state of balance.

At Both Ends of The Leash, as a trainier and coach I bring all of my learnings into the session with clients. My aim is to "meet the student where they are", as I see each individual team as just that, Individual. I believe in gently guiding each team from where they are to where they want to be, without force or fear. By understanding the unique needs of each individual, I aim to support and empower you and your dog on your journey together.

If you're ready to take the next step in your journey with your dog, I'd love to hear from you. Please visit our Contact Us page to get in touch.

Diane Petersen - Founder 

Both Ends of The Leash was Founded by Diane in 2021.