About Hamilton Hounds
Meet the team behind Hamilton Hounds and discover the values and people that make us who we are
The Hamilton Hounds Story
Founded in 2014 by Sue & Deen, Hamilton Hounds was created with a simple goal – to provide a place where dogs could enjoy their day while receiving the care, attention, and companionship they deserve.
Over the years, we’ve grown into a trusted part of the Hamilton community, welcoming thousands of dogs and building strong relationships with their families.
While we’ve grown and evolved, our focus has stayed the same: creating a positive, welcoming environment where every dog is treated as an individual.
Our Philosophy
Individual Approach
Every dog has their own personality, preferences, and needs. We take the time to understand each dog as an individual and provide care that helps them feel comfortable, confident, and valued.
Genuine Relationships
We believe great care comes from building trust, not only with dogs, but with the families who leave them in our hands. We take pride in creating lasting relationships with our clients and their pets.
A Place To Belong
Every dog has their own personality, preferences, and needs. We take the time to understand each dog as an individual and provide care that helps them feel comfortable, confident, and valued.
Meet The Team
Sue
Founder & Owner
Deen
Founder & Owner
Paula
Office Manager | Vet Nurse
Paula has been part of the Hamilton Hounds team for over 8 years, bringing more than 30 years of veterinary nursing experience. Her extensive knowledge of animal health, wellbeing, and care provides valuable support to both our team and customers. Paula’s compassion and dedication make her a trusted part of the Hamilton Hounds family.
Guinevere
Office Manager | Dog Trainer and Behaviourist
Guinevere has been part of Hamilton Hounds for 6 years and brings extensive knowledge in canine behaviour, training, and wellbeing. As a qualified Dog Trainer and Dog Behaviour Specialist, she holds certifications in dog handling, social cues, canine first aid, psychology, and training. Guinevere is passionate about helping owners better understand their dogs and supporting positive relationships.
Kaly
Senior Dog Handler | Receptionist | Social Media
Kaly has been part of Hamilton Hounds for over 8 years and holds a New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care, Dog Handler Academy qualifications, and Canine First Aid Level 2. With experience caring for a wide variety of animals, Kaly brings extensive handling knowledge, dedication, and a passion for capturing our dogs’ personalities for our social media platforms.
Daniel
Senior Dog Handler | Dog Trainer
Daniel brings over 5 years of professional dog training experience through the Hamilton Dog Obedience Club, specialising in positive reinforcement and helping dogs build confidence. With over 25 years of dog ownership experience and a background in agility training, Daniel has a strong understanding of canine behaviour and communication.
Jaya
Senior Dog Handler | Groomer | Receptionist | Social Media Manager
Jaya brings extensive animal care experience to Hamilton Hounds, with qualifications in Animal Care, Canine First Aid, and K9 Nutrition. With previous daycare management and dog training experience, Jaya is passionate about helping dogs thrive through positive relationships, enrichment, and quality care.
Brianna
Senior Groomer | Pet Stylist
Brianna has been part of Hamilton Hounds for 7 years and is highly regarded for her grooming expertise, attention to detail, and care for every dog she works with. Qualified through Angels Grooming Academy, Brianna also holds Dog Handler Academy and Canine First Aid qualifications, combining grooming skill with strong animal handling knowledge.
Hannah
Groomer
Hannah has been part of the HH team for over three years, developing her grooming skills through extensive hands-on experience with dogs of all sizes. As a lifelong dog owner, Hannah takes pride in helping every dog look and feel their very best.
Natalie
Dog Handler | Receptionist
Natalie joined Hamilton Hounds in 2024 and quickly became a valued member of the team through her caring nature and strong work ethic. With experience in pet sitting and a passion for animal care, Natalie enjoys building trust with dogs and their owners while continuing to expand her knowledge of the animal world.
Cole
Dog Handler
Cole has been part of the Hamilton Hounds team for over 2 years and brings a calm, confident approach to caring for dogs of all sizes and personalities. Currently completing Dog Handler Academy training, Cole has a natural ability to connect with dogs and build strong relationships with both pets and their owners.
Te Rangi
Dog Handler | Vet Nurse Student
Te Rangi joined Hamilton Hounds while completing her Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Level 6) and quickly became a valued member of the team. With a New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care (Level 4) and current Veterinary Nursing studies, she brings a calm, gentle approach and a strong passion for animal welfare.
Selena
Dog Handler
Selena joined Hamilton Hounds after completing her New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care (Level 3). She enjoys working hands-on with dogs, supporting their daily care and enrichment, and continues to expand her knowledge within the animal care industry with a growing interest in grooming and animal wellbeing.
Brooke
Dog Handler | Vet Nurse Student
Brooke is completing her New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Level 6) and brings a strong background in animal care and welfare. With experience through SPCA volunteering, veterinary placements, and animal care roles, Brooke enjoys building relationships with dogs and ensuring they feel happy and supported.
Hannah
Receptionist | Professional Photographer
Hannah holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, with a particular interest in animal behaviour and canine communication. She brings over 15 years of professional photography experience, combining her academic background and creative expertise to deliver high-quality pet photography services.
Ralo
Dog Handler
With previous experience in animal care and a genuine passion for dogs, Ralo brings a positive and energetic approach to the Hamilton Hounds team. Her background in coaching and competitive sport has fostered a strong work ethic and a calm, caring approach to working with animals.
Laura
Dog Handler
Laura brings practical animal care experience and a lifelong love of dogs to the Hamilton Hounds team. Having cared for dogs in both farm and shelter settings, she is confident working with dogs of all breeds, sizes and personalities.
Supporting our Community
For more than 12 years, we’ve been proud to support local charities, rescue organisations, and community initiatives. Giving back has always been an important part of who we are, and we’re grateful to play a part in helping the incredible organisations that make a difference in our community every day, including:
Chained Dogs Rehab & Re-Homing
Hamilton City Council Animal Education and Control
Breast Cancer NZ Charitable Events
Pay It Forward Hamilton & Waikato community page on Facebook
Principal sponsor of the Dirty Dog Challenge
Become Part of the Hamilton Hounds Family
We’d love to welcome you and your dog into our pack