A Little More About Us
Revolutionising scent detection, where passion meets expertise and ordinary dogs become extraordinary!
Dr Robert Hewings BSc. MA.
The World's Leading Authority in Canine Scent Detection
Dr Robert Hewings stands unrivalled as the global pinnacle of scent detection expertise. With an unprecedented 30-year elite career at the London Metropolitan Police combined with a Doctorate in Professional Practice (Scent Detection Dog Training), he represents the ultimate fusion of operational mastery and academic excellence – a combination unmatched anywhere in the world.
Founder of The College of Scent Dogs, Dr Hewings doesn't merely teach scent detection; he defines its future. His groundbreaking methodologies have revolutionised the field, establishing new international standards that practitioners worldwide now aspire to achieve.
Dr Hewings is an award-winning author whose publications are considered essential reading across the industry. His innovative training and coaching approach transforms the most complex scent work principles into dynamic, successful training programmes that consistently produce exceptional outcomes.
Dr Hewings' unique methodology seamlessly integrates three decades of frontline experience with advanced academic research and reflective practice techniques. This unparalleled approach has established him as the definitive authority that law enforcement agencies, security organisations, and professional handlers turn to when excellence is non-negotiable.
Karen Caton-Hewings
Elite Operational Excellence Meets Cutting-Edge Training Innovation
Karen Caton-Hewings represents the absolute pinnacle of operational scent detection expertise, forged through elite service with the London Metropolitan Police as an explosive search dog handler and trainer. Her unparalleled frontline experience encompasses the most critical and high-stakes operations imaginable, from responding to terror attacks and safeguarding the Royal Family to securing government installations across London.
Currently advancing her Master's in Professional Practice Coaching & Mentoring, Scent Detection Dog Handling, Karen seamlessly bridges the gap between operational excellence and academic innovation. Her unique combination of proven expertise and advanced instructional development positions her as an unstoppable force in the development of search dog training.
As Head of Training at The College of Scent Dogs, Karen has transcended her legendary status as the "best kept secret in pet dog scent detection training" to become the industry's most sought-after specialist. Her proven ability to transform complex operational techniques into accessible, results-driven training programmes has revolutionised how handlers and their canine partners achieve peak performance.
Karen's extraordinary operational portfolio – protecting national security, responding to critical incidents, and maintaining the highest security protocols – provides an unmatched foundation for her innovative training methodologies. Her students benefit from three decades of real-world expertise distilled into dynamic, practical learning experiences that deliver exceptional results.
When operational excellence meets educational innovation, Karen Caton-Hewings stands alone as the definitive authority in transforming both novice and experienced handlers into elite scent detection specialists.
Hollie McAuley-Jones BSc. MSc.
Where Wildlife Science Meets Canine Excellence
Hollie transforms the art of scent detection through an extraordinary fusion of zoological mastery and canine behavioural expertise. Armed with a degree in Zoology and a Master's in Wildlife Management and Conservation, she brings an unparalleled scientific perspective that revolutionises how we understand and teach scent work, tracking, and mantrailing.
Her remarkable background working with big cats provides a unique and captivating dimension to her instruction, offering insights into predatory tracking behaviours and movement patterns that few instructors worldwide can match. This rare expertise allows Hollie to unlock advanced training concepts that elevate both novice and experienced teams to extraordinary levels of performance.
As a distinguished member of the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers, Hollie maintains the gold standard of professional excellence while delivering her signature blend of scientific precision and practical innovation. Her classes are legendary for their electrifying atmosphere, where complex behavioural science transforms into accessible training techniques.
Hollie's infectious enthusiasm and scientific rigour create an unmatched learning environment where every dog and guardian partnership discovers its true potential. Her thorough, positive approach doesn't just develop reliable scent detection skills; it creates confident, exceptional teams that consistently exceed expectations.
When wildlife expertise meets canine training excellence, Hollie stands as the dynamic force that transforms ordinary partnerships into extraordinary scent detection specialists. Her unique perspective makes the impossible achievable, one team at a time.
Ben Poole BA.
High Energy & Academic Excellence in Revolutionary Canine Training
Ben electrifies the world of scent detection and mantrailing with his explosive combination of outstanding training skills and captivating classroom presence. With over a decade of transformative experience training pet dogs and conducting behavioural consultations, Ben has mastered the art of keeping every participant thoroughly entertained while delivering exceptional results that exceed expectations.
Currently pursuing his Master’s Degree specialising in advanced adult learning with a focus on inclusive learning techniques for neurodiverse learners, Ben represents the cutting edge of educational innovation in canine training. His groundbreaking approach ensures that every individual, regardless of learning style or neurological differences, achieves remarkable success with their canine partner.
Accredited by the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT) and certified as an Easy Peasy Puppy Instructor, Ben's credentials are matched only by his legendary "punk rock vibe" that transforms traditional training into an unforgettable experience. His classes buzz with energy as participants discover that serious learning can be seriously fun.
Ben's unwavering commitment to contemporary, ethical training techniques creates an inclusive environment where every team thrives. His profound empathy and dedication to accessibility ensure that barriers dissolve and potential is unleashed, regardless of individual challenges or learning differences.
When true passion meets academic rigour, Ben delivers a training experience that's as entertaining as it is effective.