Private Lesson Dog Training Terms & Conditions
These Terms and Conditions ("Agreement") govern the private lesson dog training services provided by Smart Paws Academy ("Trainer") for the client ("Client") and their dog(s). By enrolling in a private lesson program, the Client agrees to the following terms:
1. Training Services
Smart Paws Academy provides private, in-home dog training sessions tailored to the needs of the Client and their dog. Sessions may also occur in dog-friendly places in the community as required to address training goals. Training programs may include obedience, manners, behavior modification, leash skills, socialization guidance, enrichment strategies, and other training goals determined during the initial consultation. The Trainer does not guarantee specific outcomes, as each dog learns at its own pace and results depend on Client participation, consistency, and environmental factors.
2. Client Responsibilities
The Client agrees to actively participate in training, follow instructions, and practice assigned exercises between sessions. The Client is responsible for managing their dog’s behavior and ensuring safety in the home during training sessions. The Client must disclose any history of aggression, bites, reactivity, illness, or behavioral concerns prior to the first training session. The Client agrees to provide a safe environment for training.
3. Training Tools & Equipment
Recommended training tools may include: a well-fitted harness, flat collar, 6-ft leash, long line, crate, training treats, enrichment toys, and other tools as advised. The Trainer does not use or recommend the use of pain-, fear-, or intimidation-based tools or methods during Smart Paws Academy training sessions. In rare instances, where the immediate safety of dog or humans are concerned, temporary use of a prong collar may be recommended.
4. Health & Vaccinations
The Client confirms that their dog is up-to-date on vaccinations as recommended by their veterinarian. Dogs experiencing symptoms of illness must not participate until cleared. If the dog is unable to participate due to illness, the Client agrees to notify the Trainer as soon as possible.
5. Scheduling & Cancellations
Sessions are scheduled in advance by the Client, either online or in collaboration with the Trainer. The Trainer will arrive at the Client’s home at the agreed upon time. In the event the Client must cancel or reschedule a lesson, it is the Client’s responsibility to communicate in a timely manner and to reschedule the lesson. If the Trainer must cancel due to emergency, illness, or unsafe travel conditions, the Trainer will reach out to reschedule the lesson.
6. Payment & Refund Policy
Payment for training packages is due in full at the start of the program unless otherwise agreed. Packages are non-refundable once sessions have begun. Unused sessions expire six months from purchase. Refunds are not provided for missed sessions due to lack of Client participation.
7. Safety & Liability
The Client understands that dog training carries inherent risks and accepts responsibility for any injury or damage caused by their dog. The Trainer is not liable for injuries, damages, or losses resulting from the actions of the Client’s dog or failure to follow training instructions. If the dog displays aggression or unsafe behavior, the Trainer may modify or discontinue services.
8. Behavioral Expectations
The Trainer uses positive reinforcement, humane handling, and science-based training. The Client agrees not to use aversive training methods outside sessions that contradict Smart Paws Academy’s methods.
9. Photographs & Media
With Client permission, the Trainer may take photos or videos of the dog during sessions. Media may be used for educational or promotional purposes unless the Client opts out in writing.
10. Weather & Travel Conditions
Sessions may be rescheduled by either Client or Trainer in the event of severe weather or unsafe travel conditions.
11. Termination of Services
Smart Paws Academy may discontinue services if the Client violates this Agreement, behaves disrespectfully, or if the dog’s behavior creates dangerous conditions. Unused sessions may be refunded at the Trainer’s discretion.