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The A’s K9 Training Client, Informed Consent Statement

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1. As A’s K9 Training, we will always hold the dog’s welfare as our top priority. The dog is the vulnerable component in the consultation process as they cannot offer informed consent. The role of an A’s K9 Training is one that is beneficial to the dog and never to its detriment.

2. We seek to do no harm. A’s K9 Training will not condone or endorse any treatment by a dog’s owner that is physically or mentally cruel. We will opt out of a consulting agreement rather than attempt to manage an unethical course of action.

3. The A’s K9 Training will only consult with clients that offer cases that the independently owned and operated A’s K9 Training business has the professional competence to deal with.

4. The A’s K9 Training will only use procedures, protocols and training tools that are empirically based and have a proven track record of effectiveness. The A’s K9 Training uses training and behaviour change methods that are minimally invasive and intrusive to the animal.

5. A’s K9 Training trainer considers communications with their clients privileged. We will only break that confidentiality if a dog is being abused (as legally defined) and the client cannot be dissuaded from using their current approach. We will act according to local and state laws in terms of reporting animal cruelty.

6. A’s K9 Training recognizes that the owner is responsible for their dog and the owner has the right to make decisions about the professional treatment of their dog.

7. As A’s K9 Training, we will apply the following ethical principles to each situation we encounter: respect for the freedom and dignity of others, do not cause harm, do good, act fairly and be faithful to promises made to the client.

8. In consideration for being accepted for training with the local A’s K9 Training, a locally owned and operated Dog Training business, the client agrees to indemnify and hold harmless A’s K9 Training, it’s employees or instructors against any and all claims or actions that may at any time be made or instituted against them by any person for the purpose of enforcing any cause of action growing out of or connected with my attendance or my dog’s attendance at a private or group training session conducted by A’s K9 Training at any property.

9. A’s K9 Trainings and their employees agree to provide services stated in this agreement in a reliable and trustworthy manner. In consideration of these services and as an express condition thereof, the client expressly waives any and all claims against The A’s K9 Training, or its employees including claims arising from negligence.

10. Training sessions not cancelled 24 hours prior to the lesson are non refundable. However in exceptional circumstances a credit may be applied against future classes at the discretion of A's K9 Training.

11. If any group classes are postponed due to inclement weather they will be made up.

12. Aggressive dogs are prohibited from all Group classes until I say otherwise. The definition of an aggressive dog is any dog that shows an inappropriate challenge, threat or contest to another being (human or canine). Before applying for a group class, please consult A’s K9 Training if your dog has ever exhibited aggression. Persons asked to leave a class because of their dog’s aggressive behavior, will not receive a refund for any remaining classes. However, a pro rata credit may be applied for private sessions. Aggressive dogs can attend and participate in A’s K9 Training one-on-one training classes.

13. Please bring your dog to group class on a properly fitted flat-buckle collar, working harness, head-halter, or martingale collar, attached to a good quality leash. Please do not bring your dog on a flex-lead, spray collar, electric collar, electric waistband. If you need advice on how to safely control your dog without one of these tools then please contact your A’s K9 Training who can review your equipment options.

14. All dogs must be current with at least 5in1 or 7in1 Canine Distemper, Adenovirus, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus, Leptospirosis, Corona Virus and Rabies. Written vaccination records are required at the time of service. You are also required to provide confirmation that you dog has had a test performed in the last 12 months by your Veterinarian and the results were negative. It is also very important that you pick up after your dog for there are many Viruses going around (there will always be poop bags available).

15. When attending group classes make sure to wear the correct clothing. No open shoes , no jewellery that can tangle with clothing or leash etc.