Accreditation Panel

The accreditation panel comprises of qualified experts in animal training, behaviour or welfare who are invited to join the panel by the CANZ Executive Board.

CANZ Executive Board Panel Members:

Dr ARnja Dale

Arnja is the Chief Scientific Officer of the RNZSPCA. With qualifications, publications and experience in the field of animal behaviour, training and welfare, she also sits on the CANZ board.

INDEPENDENT Panel Members:

Dr Jessica Walker

Jessica is a Senior Scientific Officer at the RNZSPCA. She was the first general manager for the NZ Companion Animal Council (now CANZ) and held this position for three years. Jessica holds qualifications, publications and experience in the field of animal behaviour, training and welfare and was involved in the development of the CANZ Accreditation programme from the onset.

Dr Lindsay Skyner

Dr Lindsay Skyner was a lecturer in animal behaviour and welfare who worked across the UK, Canada and New Zealand with both exotic and companion animals. With a strong interest in training and qualifications, and significant publications and experience in the field, she was contracted by CANZ to develop the accreditation programme and played a foundational role in its establishment.

Lindsay continued to support the programme as an independent panel member until her passing in February 2026. We are deeply grateful for her expertise, integrity and lasting contribution to our work.