'Oscar' nomination for the Dukinfield Dog Whisperer

A Dukinfield 'Dog Whisperer' has hit the headlines after being nominated in the pet equivalent of the Oscars.

Benn Rochford, from Pud Puds Pet Services, has been nominated for two Animal Star Awards in the ‘Best Pet Related Business’ category. 

He originally set up his business after the passing of his beloved dog who had overcome behavioural problems. 

Now he works with other animals who have additional needs.

“I predominantly work with dogs that are classed as reactive - so they could be nervous, anxious or fearful,” said Benn.

“I set it up because I had a Staffordshire bull terrier called Jack. 

“Prior to him, to me a dog was a dog. He came from a backyard breeder and had quite a lot of issues. He set me on the path of leaving adult mental health services to work with these dogs who have training and behavioural problems. He sadly passed away and then I started volunteering at a shelter.

“This little skinny ‘Staffy’ came in who had been used as a breeding machine then dumped on the streets of Derby. She came in the day that I started volunteering and clung to me like glue.”

That dog became very special for Benn and his family with Pud Pud, as she came to be known, supporting them through a tough time.

“Around that time, my wife suffered a miscarriage and she really took it quite badly.

“For whatever reason, she and Pud Pud just bonded and she really brought Holly back out of the depression.

“Something about Puds brought her back, so I named my business after her. Even though she’s no longer with us, her legacy goes on.”

Benn has had numerous success stories with dogs that needed extra attention. 

He explained just what it takes, saying: “I think the longest one was a dog called Indy; I always refer to him on my page as my main man because it took me just short of eight months to gain his trust.

“I would go every week to his owners’ home, offering treats, throwing the ball, being in his presence and having coffee with his owners, just being around him. 

“He’s never been abused or mistreated, his owners have had him from eight weeks, he just naturally doesn’t trust many people.

“I was just persistent thinking I’m going to win this dog over one way or another.

“It was literally a week before they were due to fly out to Florida for a once in a lifetime holiday and he came to the front door and greeted me like I was his best friend. 

“For months before that he wouldn’t let me touch him or come near me. 

“These dogs do need a lot of time, patience and understanding. You can’t rush them, everything has got to be at their pace - what they’re comfortable with.”

Following his nomination, Ben will now be judged by a panel of experts from his industry before finding out if he’s a winner on March 28 in an online ceremony.

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