AN ANDOVER dog trainer has been announced as a finalist for prestige award after opening his dog training business last year in memory of his beloved labrador. 

Nick Shelly, owner and sole employee at Riley's Canine Coaching, is in the running as a finalist for the best dog trainer at the Animal Star Awards 2022.

After previously being a zoo keeper, Nick opened his business following the death of his best friend, his dog Riley, who sadly died in 2020.

READ MORE: Steve, 60, on a mission to run 60 marathons for Hampshire children's hospice

Nick's aim with opening his business, which is named after his dog, was to help other dog owners have the same positive relationship that he previously had with Riley.

He said: "It felt surreal to be nominated for this award, let alone become a finalist considering I haven't been doing this for long, I feel very new to the game.

"I just love helping other people understand why their dog is behaving or acting the way they are by getting down onto the dogs level and breaking down the communication. 

SEE ALSO: Enjoy the start of the festive season as Andover switches on Christmas lights

"It is a brilliant and extremely rewarding job, and I just love dogs and being able to spend all my time with them." 

The Animal Star Awards will be holding an online ceremony on Saturday, November 26 where Nick will find out the outcome of the awards.

Nick only uses force-free training methods at Riley's coaching to help dog owners establish a cooperative partnership with their dog so they can have great lives together.