Training Classes
Equipment and Handling
Dogs should wear a flat collar or harness with a standard length clip lead to class (no flexi/retractable leads please).
All training techniques used by Paws Off are kind, fair and effective. Nicole is a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and her classes abide by their Code of Practice – http://www.apdt.co.uk/about-apdt. As such, the use of choke chains, check chains, prong collars, aversive methods and manhandling are not permitted in classes and strongly discouraged at any other time.
If punitive training continues in class after an initial warning, both dog and owner will be asked to leave (without a refund).
Attendance
Paws Off does not restrict the number of family members that attend classes (the more the merrier) and children are more than welcome. However, anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult and should not be left to bring the dog to classes on their own.
Young children under the age of 5 are also welcome but parents may wish to consider bringing a colouring book or other activity for them in the event that they become bored during class.
For health and safety reasons, and to ensure an appropriate learning environment for all, it will not be permitted for children to run around or interact with the other dogs (unless specifically requested by a member of the Paws Off team) during classes.
Parents/guardians are responsible for children attending at all times.
Dog-dog interactions
Please do not allow your dog to approach other dogs in class without asking first. Not all dogs enjoy another dog moving into their personal space so we ask that you respect this and always ask before allowing your dog to greet another.
In our adult classes we discourage dogs from playing with each other whilst on lead. Play can often lead to over-excitement (particularly in young dogs) making it difficult for them to learn. Your tutor will be able to direct you to off lead areas close to your venue where you can allow your dog the opportunity for some off lead play with classmates (if appropriate) before or after classes.
Please do not enrol onto a course if your dog shows aggression towards other dogs or people. In these cases a class environment may cause higher levels of stress and increase the likelihood of aggressive behaviour. Members of the Paws Off team reserve the right to remove a dog and owner from class (without refund) if they feel the dog’s behaviour is putting other participants at risk. In these cases private training is often more effective.
Health and Safety
Owners are expected to clean up after their dogs in and around the training venue. Please ensure you come to class suitably prepared with pooh bags to clean up any dog mess.
All dogs must be kept under control and on a lead unless specifically requested otherwise by a member of the Paws Off team. Owners are responsible for their dogs at all times.
All dogs attending class should be fully vaccinated and up to date with their boosters. Please do not bring your dog to class if he shows signs of illness or has been in contact with another dog infected with a contagious disease. We also ask that bitches in season are not brought to class. If you are unsure whether or not to bring your dog to class please contact Paws Off or speak with your veterinary surgeon.
If a dog is unable to attend classes, owners are more than welcome to attend without their dog in order to keep up to date with the training.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations made 7 days or more before the training course start date will receive a full refund (or transfer to an alternative course). This can be done online via the website or by contacting Nicole Harris on 07989265522 or info@paws-off.co.uk.
Cancellations made less than 7 days prior to the training course start date will receive 80% of the fee paid.
It is not possible to refund fees for cancellations or missed sessions once a course has started (exceptional circumstances will be considered on a case by case basis).
Outdoor sessions will take place come rain or shine. In extreme cases e.g. excessive heat or thunderstorms, classes will be cancelled and rescheduled for another date.
Home Visits
Equipment and Handling
All training techniques used by Paws Off are kind, fair and effective. Harsh handling, the use of physical force or intimidation is not permitted at any time. Nicole is a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and her training methods abide by their Code of Practice – http://www.apdt.co.uk/about-apdt. As such, the use of choke chains, check chains, prong collars, aversive methods and manhandling are prohibited whilst under her tuition and strongly discouraged at any other time.
Attendance
Paws Off does not restrict the number of family members present during a home visit. It can be highly beneficial for all family members to learn the same training techniques and continue to provide consistent training outside of the session.
However, if young children are likely to become bored or disruptive during the session it may be recommend that they do not attend.
Packages
If you have paid for a package of multiple sessions, the code you receive is valid for a year (12 months) from the date of purchase.
Health and Safety
Please let us know immediately if your dog shows signs of illness or has been in contact with another dog infected with a contagious disease prior to a scheduled appointment.
We also ask that you notify us if your bitch comes into season prior to a scheduled appointment.
Some home visit sessions may take place outdoors on a favourite walk. All dogs must be kept under control and on a lead unless specifically requested otherwise by a member of the Paws Off team. Owners are responsible for their dogs at all times.
Cancellation Policy
Appointments can be cancelled or rescheduled up to 72 hours prior to the scheduled appointment time with no charge. This can be done online via the website or by contacting Nicole Harris on 07989265522 or info@paws-off.co.uk.
If prior notification is not given 72 hours in advance, you will be charged for the missed appointment in full. Refunds will be considered on a case by case basis for exceptional circumstances.