About Us

ELM Obedience School ensures that all dogs are treated fairly and humanely, with their intelligence and dignity respected.

Eda Milne
Founder and Senior Instructor

Eda is an animal lover and teacher at heart. She started training animals in the 1960’s but it wasn’t until 1978 when Eda first started working with dogs that she quickly discovered her true passion. In 1989 ELM Obedience School was established for which she quickly gained and maintained immense respect for her knowledge and training technique within the dog community. 

Laura Barrett
Instructor

Laura came to ELM Obedience School in 2008 with her dogs, Kuma and Barley who currently attends class as demonstration dogs. She has always had a passion for animals; volunteering in veterinarian offices and having 2 Shiba Inus of her own! Laura's natural instinct with animals has made her a key part of the team.  When Laura isn't co-instructing with Eda, she can be found in her garden or making art. 

Brenda Hawkes
Instructor - Retired 

Brenda started with ELM Obedience School 30 years ago after having taken classes from Eda. Being a long-time animal lover it was only natural for her to move into a role where she can work with animals directly. As well as being Eda’s right-hand woman she also does volunteer work with the SPCA acting as a Foster House for animals who need a little extra attention.  

As of 2022, Brenda has now retired from training with the team at ELM Obedience School and is enjoying her time on Vancouver island with family and dogs.