He attended Street Edmund"s College, Ware before studying at the University of Bristol where he received his The Bachelor of Veterinary Science degree and completed his Doctor of Philosophy degree in animal behaviour from De Montfort University.
After some time spent in general practice, he became a Lecturer, Senior Lecturer and Principal Lecturer in animal behaviour at De Montfort University, and subsequently the University of Lincoln, where he has been Head of the Department of Biological Sciences. His research has focused on the assessment of emotion in companion animals and the use of semiochemicals to manage their problem behaviour (pheromonatherapy). and validated the successful use of animal pheromones to control badly behaved pets. In 2012 he appeared on the Horizon (British Broadcasting Corporation television series) programme: the Secret Life of the Dog and an episode of Bang Goes the Theory.
Among his achievements are becoming the first person within the United Kingdom to be recognized as a specialist in veterinary behavioural medicine by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. Among his recognised practical achievements he has developed the Lincoln stable mirror to assist horses with isolation problems.
He is also a member of the Companion Animal Welfare Council.
