Heather says she is not a native of the New forest, but has lived here for over 30 years. Her family have always loved their dogs, currently numbering three and ranging from a small 'Heinz' variety to a St. Bernard.

Why did you become involved with the group?
"Although I understand that we live in an evolving but much pressurised environment, I believe passionately that managing the pressures in the New Forest need not involve draconian measures.

I hope that I shall be able to walk my dogs on the Forest, off the lead (under control) for many years to come and so I am doing my bit to support the only organisation that works for this aim."

David was brought up in New Milton, and now lives in Brockenhurst. The family have kept Border Collies - a hangover from his Grandmother who lived in Ashley and used to win awards (including Crufts) for her Collies. Current dog, Duke, is a rescue from the Dogs Trust. David was a journalist in the BBC (including running the newsroom at BBC Radio Solent), then managed PR for Dorset and Southampton Councils, before running his own media consultancy company before retiring in 2018. He first Joined NFDOG in 2005, and enjoys volunteering for NFDOG and other groups.

Why have you become involved with the Group?
"Love of dogs, the New Forest, and keeping busy! The correct balance of environment, nature and human use is essential. I enjoy playing a small role to reinforce responsible behaviour by dog owners which is a key part of human and recreational use of this wonderful place."

Tracey relocated to the New Forest in 2015. Having been raised on a farm she has lived with dogs, horses, cows and many other types of animals! Now based in Burley she currently has a German Shepherd and a Springador and is particularly keen to promote animal welfare and responsible dog ownership amongst visitors and locals alike.

"I have lived in the New Forest for many years, and have owned several retrievers in the past as well as looking after family spaniels and other labradors. I like to take a 'common sense' approach to caring for and training dogs. I'm interested in helping others to be responsible dog owners and am pleased to help with the administration side of the Group. I love to see a well-behaved dog enjoying a walk off the lead, especially those who like getting in water! I don't currently own a dog."

Janine was born in Blendworth, Hampshire, and moved to the New Forest in 1989 to take up her first job as a veterinary surgeon. Her versatile Border Collie Dee, enjoys agility, flyball and heelwork to music! New arrival Quiz hopes to follow in her footsteps. Janine stays very fit!! Although Janine moved away in 1991, she returned to the Forest in 1993 because she missed the unique life style and the open space available for dog walking.

Why have you become involved with the Group?
"So many of my clients complained to me about the restrictions on dog walking that I felt it was in the interest of the welfare of my patients to give the Group my support."

Born in Sway, Kate has been able to enjoy the New Forest all her life. She is also actively involved in a wide range of dog-related activities, including teaching fun obedience training and assisting a local dog rescue group with home-checks and fundraising. Her canine family include Lucky, Lola, Callie and Lily, all of whom are rescue dogs.

Why have you become involved with the Group?
"Having lived the New Forest all my life, I believe that future generations should also be able to enjoy the Forest as I have done. My happiest childhood memories include playing in Boundway stream with our Labrador, and I would like my grand children and their families to have the same fun and share the same memories."

"After 20 years of working in a frontline uniform service, I pursued my dream of working as an animal behaviourist by studying to become a member of CAPBT (COAPE association of applied pet behaviourists and trainers) in 2010. I ran my own company Blackdog DNA for the last 12 years providing genetic health and behaviour profiles for mixed breed dogs. I also volunteered at Battersea dogs and cats home and for Dogs Trust for 10 years where I helped dogs deal with the stresses of kennel life. I’ve always had family living in the New Forest so I was happy to retire down to Sway to be close to family in 2016.

Why have you become involved with the Group?
"I’m now retired and enjoying the privilege of walking my dog off the lead on the beautiful New Forest every day. NF dog promotes responsible dog ownership which is crucial to being able to continue to have that freedom."

Verity moved to Brockenhurst with my Vet husband Ian and son Henry in 2020. They quickly embraced forest life and added to their family with Busby the black Labrador and 4 chickens! Her working life started as a Veterinary Nurse, 20 odd years ago now. Once qualified she gained experience across a wide range of practices (small animal, equine, first opinion and referral) by working as a locum Registered Veterinary Nurse. Following a period of travelling through Australia, New Zealand and SE Asia, in 2004 Verity joined Novartis, gaining valuable commercial experience in account, sales, project and people management, and brand marketing.

Why have you become involved with the Group?
"Fulfilling a long-held ambition to own our veterinary practice, Ian and I bought Sandhole Veterinary Centre in Kent. The practice was re-positioned to focus on exceeding client expectations and we were delighted to have this recognised when we won Petplan Veterinary Practice of the Year; a bit like the Oscars of the Veterinary World! I am never happier than out exploring our beautiful forest. I have even set myself a challenge of walking from every car park across the Newforest (43 completed as a write this). I also enjoy keeping fit through netball and Pilates. I aim to always act kindly and make a positive difference in the world."

Although I don’t live within the New Forest itself, I know how important it is to so many people beyond its borders. I’m excited to bring the perspective of dog owners who travel into the Forest to enjoy its beauty and to ensure their voices are heard alongside those of local residents.

Why have you become involved with the Group?
"Joining the NFDOG committee felt like a natural step for me. I’ve been working with the organisation for over a decade behind the scenes, developing the NFDOG website, app and database software so I was really excited to take a more active role. I was especially proud of creating Bark! magazine as the evolution of the well respected newsletter that helps to keep members connected and informed"

I have lived in various parts of southern England including Devon, Somerset, Dorset and Berkshire, but settled in Tiptoe nearly 25 years ago. I am an accountant, and my wife and I run our own practice. We have two children, one at Uni and the other going this year. My wife and I have had a number of rescue dogs since we met, and our current rescue Myrtle a lurcher, part Saluki. She loves walking in the forest, however, she is extremely nervous and has remained that way since she came to live with us a month before lockdown, so is always on a lead and very cautious around others.

TBA