Booking
Payment is required in full before attending any training sessions. I cannot guarantee a place on a training session until payment has been made. Classes can be booked on my website or for 1:1 sessions, payment can be made via bank transfer or PayPal.
Training techniques and equipment
As a member of the National Institute for Canine Ethics (NICE) I only use ethical, science-based methods. Please do not turn up to any classes or training sessions with potentially aversive equipment such as, but not limited to: slip leads, prong collars, choke collars or e-collars. If you are unsure about the equipment that you are using and whether it can be deemed potentially aversive, please ask. I am always happy to provide equipment recommendations and explain why I recommend them.
If you are using aversive equipment or techniques and have been advised not do this but continue to use them, I reserve the right to cancel any future sessions with no refund.
I typically recommend a Y front harness such as Perfect Fit, Ruffwear or Twiggy Tags harness and a double ended training lead.
Classes
The number of dogs in classes is limited to ensure the safety of all participants. Please do not show up with extra dogs. Please do not show up with a dog who has aggression, unless attending a class that specifically caters to reactive dogs such as the calmness and dog boundary classes or the disengagement training walks. If you are unsure of your dog’s suitability for classes, please ask. I may be able to offer 1:1 training sessions instead or classes designed for reactive dogs. If you turn up to classes that are not designed for reactive dogs with a potentially reactive/aggressive dog and you have not informed me of this, I reserve the right to exclude you and your dog from classes and there will be no refund.
See something, Say something.
Every guardian and their dog have the right to feel safe and comfortable in classes and this is especially important in reactive dog classes. If you see anything that makes you uncomfortable, whether it’s something another class participant has done or myself, please tell me. Safety is paramount and we all work together to maintain this.
Multiple dog households
If booking multiple dogs from one household into a class, please ensure that each dog has their own handler so that they can appropriately manage the dog and carry out the training.
When booking 1:1 training sessions, only one dog can be trained at a time. This is to ensure that each dog receives maximum care and attention to produce the best training outcome.
Calmness and Dog Boundary Classes and Disengagement Training Walks
As these classes are designed for reactive dogs, children under 16 years of age cannot be present. This is to ensure the safety of all participants.
These classes are suitable for reactive dogs however you would be moved to 1:1 sessions if:
You have a strong and reactive dog with a handler who is deemed to be having trouble keeping the dog under control,
Your dog is becoming too stressed and the class environment isn’t appropriate for them. This could lead to flooding and worsening reactivity,
A dog with a recent bite history (within the last 6 months) and is not muzzled.
Bitches in season
Please do not turn up to any classes with bitches that are in season. This can be distracting to the other dogs and present a possible safety concern. Any in season bitches will be turned away from a class environment. Accommodations can be made during this period and include: 1:1 sessions, zoom sessions or you attending without your dog present to stay up to date with the training exercises covered in class. All bitches must be two weeks post season before attending any classes.
Infectious diseases and illnesses
Please do not turn up to class or training sessions if your dog has any infectious diseases/illnesses. If you are unsure that your dog is fit to attend class, please seek veterinary advice. If your dog is unable to attend, you may be able to attend without your dog present to stay up to date with the training exercises covered in class.
Conduct in class
Please be aware that not all dogs are comfortable with other dogs entering their personal space and getting up close. For this reason, all training classes are conducted on lead. Please be respectful of other participants, their dogs and their boundaries.
Cancellations
I require a 72 hour notice period for any cancellations before the beginning of the course or training session. Fees will not be refunded within the 72 hour notice period and once the course has began.
Training packages
Three session packages must be used up within six months from the date of the first session otherwise they will expire. Exceptions can be made and packages can be put on hold if contacted in advance and agreed by myself.