A smiling black Korean jindo dog sits in a lavender field with his owner.

My background and experience


I’m Stephanie Petrashko (you can call me Steph). I’m originally from Canada but have been living in Cambridge, UK since 2016.

I am an animal welfare advocate with a passion for all creatures. My experiences with animals are lifelong, and my admiration for them began when I rescued injured backyard wildlife during my upbringing, which I still continue to do today.

I have spent most of my life around animals in some capacity. I grew up with numerous pets (I had cats, birds, fish and mice!) and fostered cats with local rescue charities. I walked dogs and looked after pets for friends and neighbours, and volunteered internationally with hedgehogs, primates, birds, toads and other wildlife. I also worked for wonderful charities, SPANA and Brooke, helping working animals in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities.

A happy black Korean jindo dog walking in a lavender field.


I stay up to date with the latest science on training and behaviour. I have completed numerous dog training and behaviour classes and have been accepted into the Master of Science in Applied Animal Behaviour and Animal Welfare programme at the University of Edinburgh. I also regularly attend trainings and webinars led by animal professionals covering topics such as behaviour, welfare, nutrition, and advances in research. My credentials include:

  • Animal Behaviour and Welfare – University of Edinburgh
  • Animal Psychology – Holly and Hugo
  • Chicken Behaviour and Welfare – University of Edinburgh
  • Dog Cognition and Emotion – Duke University
  • Dog Grooming (in progress) – Expert Skills
  • Introduction to Applied Zoopharmacognosy – Ingraham Academy of Zoopharmacognosy
  • Pet First Aid for Pet Professionals Level 3 (VTQ)
  • Responsible Dog Ownership – British College of Canine Studies
  • The Horse Course: Introduction to Basic Care and Management – University of Florida

Jack, a jindo rescued from the dog meat trade in Korea, stands happily with his tongue out.

Adopting Jack


My partner and I adopted our amazing dog, Jack (pictured here) in 2021. Jack was rescued from the dog meat trade in South Korea. Sadly, Jack didn’t know how to be a dog when we brought him home – he didn’t know how to play, trembled at the veterinarian, barked at strangers, and was afraid of every sight and sound outdoors, to the point where he refused to go for a walk. It took lots of love, patience, training, and sessions with behaviourists and veterinarians for Jack to understand he was in safe hands.

Jack is loving life now – he joins us on road trip adventures, runs around the garden with his favourite squeaky toys, loves going to cafes and pubs, and even looks forward to going to the vet!

My hobbies and interests​


When I’m not cuddling with Jack, I love wildlife watching and animal photography. I’ve had the privilege of seeing and photographing some incredible wildlife in their natural habitats, including polar bears, snow leopards, mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, cheetahs, tigers, sea turtles and many types of beautiful birds. You can see more of my wildlife photos here.

I am also very passionate about the environment, and try to live as ethically and sustainably as possible through my daily choices and habits. I am also quite a foodie and love delicious plant-based food! You can read more about my values here.


Contact me today

I look forward to hearing from you!

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