Meet the Founder
Jackie Gowland
BSc. Animal Science | Advanced Canine Nutritionist
With nearly a decade of experience transforming canine health through evidence-based nutrition and holistic therapies, Jackie bridges the gap between canine science and natural wellness.
Why Jackie's Approach Works
Academic Foundation
Jackie's journey began at the University of Adelaide with a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science. This rigorous scientific background ensures every nutrition plan is grounded in evidence-based research and nutritional science principles—not trends or guesswork.
Holistic Integration
Understanding that true health extends beyond food, Jackie takes a holistic approach to wellness. This unique perspective allows her to address the connection between pet parents and their dogs—recognizing that stress, emotions, and lifestyle patterns affect both human and canine wellbeing.
Specialised Expertise
With certifications in Natural Animal Nutrition, Advanced Canine Nutrition, Canine Myofunctional Therapy, and Animal Massage, Jackie has mastered multiple modalities. This comprehensive toolkit means she can create personalised protocols that address your dog's unique needs—from gut health to muscle tension to behavioural patterns.
Continuous Learning
Jackie's commitment to staying at the forefront of canine health is evident in her most recent 2025 certifications in Advanced Canine Nutrition and Animal Massage. She continuously integrates the latest research into her practice, ensuring your dog benefits from cutting-edge wellness strategies.
Credentials & Journey
Bachelor of Science - Animal Science
University of Adelaide
Natural Animal Nutrition
Holistic Animal Therapy Organisation
Founded Functional Canine this year
Canine Myofunctional Therapy
National College of Traditional Medicine
Advanced Canine Nutrition
Companion Animal Sciences Institute
Animal Massage
Animal Wellness Academy with Dr. Elaine Cebuliak
The Divine Pairing Philosophy
Jackie's unique understanding of the human-animal connection
After years of clinical observation, Jackie noticed something remarkable: dogs often mirror their owners' behavioural patterns, emotional states, and even physical conditions. This isn't coincidence—it's energetic resonance.
As highly empathetic beings sharing our living spaces, sleeping in our beds, and constantly present in our energy fields, dogs absorb our stress, joy, habits, and health patterns. This is why Jackie believes that healing your dog often means healing yourself too.
Functional Canine isn't just about optimizing your dog's nutrition—it's about empowering you to become more in tune with your own body, emotions, and intuition so both you and your four-legged companion can thrive together.