I understand the following:

The objective of Basic Manners is to teach me how to train my dog the attention, sit, down, come, heel, and leave it behaviors. Basic Manners is NOT suitable for reactive or aggressive dogs. The degree to which my dog is successfully trained is a function of my interest, commitment, and cooperation. Therefore, I agree that there is no guarantee that my dog will achieve the desired level of training despite the instructor’s best efforts. If, after starting a class, FFP-GAKS staff determine a group class is not suitable for my dog, FFP-GAKS will credit the remainder of my class fees for private training or behavior consulting at their current rates.

FFP-GAKS training methods and tools are based on science and the humane treatment of dogs. I understand that Force-Free means: No shock, No pain, No choke, No fear, No physical force, and No compulsion-based methods are ever employed to train or care for a pet. Shock, prong, and choke collars may not be used in class or on FFP-GAKS property.

If my dog goes into a heat cycle or becomes ill, they may not attend class until the heat cycle or illness has passed. I may continue to come to class without my dog, and FFP-GAKS will encourage me to do so.

The educational material for Basic Manners will be presented in person and online. Therefore, I will require access to the internet via a desktop computer or tablet to access the online material and emails from FFP-GAKS.

If I cannot attend a scheduled class, I will read the homework provided and email my instructor if I have questions. In addition, I may schedule a private make-up session at FFP-GAKS current rates.

FFP-GAKS may need to postpone a scheduled class. FFP-GAKS will notify me of any such changes via the FFP-GAKS Facebook pages or an email sent to the email address I provided. FFP-GAKS will reschedule classes canceled for these reasons.

FFP-GAKS will send me information before my first in-person class via email and possibly the USPS. I am to review that information before my first class if I wish to get the most benefit from the instructor’s lessons. These files and links are copyrighted and are only for myself and others in my family who live in the same home as my dog. These links may not be distributed or shared with anyone else in any manner. 

PAYMENT & REFUNDS – Payment of the entire class fee is necessary to secure my place in a class. Refunds must be requested before I am sent or receive any class materials, either by picking them up in person or being sent said materials by any delivery method, electronic or otherwise, AND at least 14 days before the class’s scheduled start date. Requests for refunds must be sent to don@forcefreepets.com. Refunds will be made via our online payment system. FFP-GAKS will consider refund requests due to family emergencies.

I must provide proof of vaccination for my dog from a licensed veterinarian that indicates my dog is current on these vaccinations; Distemper series, canine cough/Bordetella, and Rabies (unless less than 6-months of age). Dogs without the required vaccinations may not attend class.

I am responsible for providing training treats for my dog during each class. In addition, my dog is to be wearing a flat collar, a front-connect harness, a rear-correct harness, or a head halter attached to a fabric or leather 6-foot leash. Choke, prong/pinch, and shock collars are not allowed in classes or on FFP-GAKS property.

FFP-GAKS staff may photograph and video my dog and me during class. I allow FFP-GAKS to use those images in training and promotional materials.

Attending a private or group dog training session is not without risk to me, my family members, or guests who may attend, or my dog. I also understand that I (we) may be in the proximity of other people that may carry a transmissible disease that they and ForceFreePets.com and Green Acres Kennel Shop (FFP-GAKS) may be unaware of and cannot prevent the transmission of said disease.

My dog and I may be exposed to other dogs that may be difficult to control, and that may cause injury even when handled with the greatest care. Therefore, in consideration of, and as an inducement to, the acceptance of my applications for a training session or sessions, I agree to indemnify and hold harmless, and I hereby release FFP-GAKS, its employees, owners, or agents from any and all liability of any nature, for injury or damage which I, my family or guests or my dog may suffer, including specifically, but without limitation to, any injury or damage resulting from the action of any dog including my own, and I expressly assume the risk of any such damage or injury while attending any training session or other function of FFP-GAKS or while on property belonging to FFP-GAKS or at any other location where classes may take place. In addition, I am personally liable for any adults or minors that I invite to accompany me to class.

FFP-GAKS is greatly concerned about my health, their staff, and our community. Therefore, they may implement specific policies that may affect training sessions at their sole discretion, and I agree to abide by those policies. A current version of any special policies may be found at https://bit.ly/GAKS-COVID-Main. I understand that FFP-GAKS reserves the right to change these protocols without advance notice if required to do so by governmental authorities or if they believe it is necessary to protect me, the FFP-GAKS staff, and our community.