Our Trustees

Charlotte Lewtas

Chairperson

Charlotte has been working with animals for over 20 years and has amongst other qualifications a Level 3 in Learning, Motivation and Reinforcement from the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers and is a qualified Assistance Dog Specialist with the Dog Training College. She is thus, best placed to be in charge of all the dog training at Canine and Able!

Charlotte is not only skilled in training dogs (and their owners) but also has a wonderful connection with children – no doubt through her experience of child minding and as an assistant within pre-school organisations.

In her past, she has been a trainer of Assistance dogs, a Veterinary Nurse, and a Wildlife Rescuer. Charlotte also ran her own dog-walking and home-boarding business – so brings both animal and business skills to the board of trustees.

Claire Alldritt

Secretary

Claire volunteers, out and about with the dogs, but is also the person who manages our social media presence, and does the majority of the admin.

Claire comes from a background of business management and development – within the oil industry and within outdoor sports. She also has over 20 years’ experience of running another local (and very successful) charity that provides positive life-changing experiences for the young people of Moray.

So why Canine and Able? For the past 15 years, her day job has been as a Paramedic – where she unfortunately developed PTSD. Her dog greatly supported her through her mental health struggles, and she soon realised how much our canine friends can really make a difference to a person’s wellbeing. She is keen to support an organisation that provides dog therapy within her local community.

Hugh Brown

Treasurer

Hugh is a retired chartered accountant with experience in an international accounting firm, civil engineering, textiles, food manufacturing, oil services, and education.

A resident of the North of Scotland since 1982, he is a keen dog owner and appreciates the stimulation, support and fun that interaction with dogs can bring.

He is very modest but having worked on a charitable board of a much bigger nature for many years – what he doesn’t know about charitable accounting would fit on the back of a postage stamp!

Fiona Gerhard

Member

Fiona has been an Operations Manager for a major animal welfare charity in England for the last 18 years – and she brings a wealth of management skills to the board. She clearly has a passion for all types of animals, but her main love has always been dogs – particularly the large gundog breeds.

Fiona has also worked as a Justice of the Peace for the last 10 years making a considerable contribution to her community – her knowledge of law and legislation is also a useful contribution to our board.

So why Canine and Able? Her family have been regular visitors to the Highlands and Moray for over 20 years – Fiona absolutely loves this area of Scotland and is delighted to be able to contribute something back to the community here.

Jackie Harris

Member

Jackie spent over 10 years living and working in a variety of countries abroad – which opened her eyes (and her big heart) to the hardships endured by so many animals. While living in Houston, Jackie fostered over 30 dogs in 3 years. They were all introduced to a loving family life and adopted into secure homes.

Since returning to England in 2012 (with her two rescued dogs), Jackie has volunteered with the Riding for Disabled Association (she is also an avid horse-lover) and worked as a counsellor for Citizens Advice. She was also a Trustee for 10 years with a village hall trust, administering the Trust Hardship Funds to local families.

Now relocated to Scotland, her knowledge of business, voluntary organisations, dog rescue/rehabilitation, and her compassion and understanding towards people and/or animals facing hardship – are all a real asset to our charity.