Terms & Conditions

Booking & Payment: 

Payment in full is required at the time of booking to secure your session. Bookings are not confirmed until payment has been received. 

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If you need to reschedule your appointment, please provide at least 24 hours’ notice. I’m happy to rearrange your session where possible. 

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If less than 24 hours’ notice is given, or the appointment is missed, the session will be forfeited. 

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If I need to cancel or reschedule your session, I will aim to provide a minimum of 24 hours’ notice and offer an alternative appointment. 

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All sessions are non-refundable - Exceptions may be made at my sole discretion.

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Travel Fees:

Sessions are available across Torbay, Newton Abbot and the wider South Devon area. 

A travel fee of 45p per mile may apply for locations outside of the immediate Torquay area. This will be confirmed before your session is booked. 

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Client Responsibilities & Safety:

The safety of people and dogs is always the priority. 

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By booking a session you agree that: 

• Your dog remains your responsibility at all times, including their behaviour around people, dogs and the environment. 

• You will follow the trainer’s guidance to ensure sessions are carried out safely. 

• Any accidents, incidents or injuries occurring during training are reported immediately. 

 

Training sessions may involve working in public or outdoor environments, which carry inherent risks. By attending, you acknowledge and accept these risks. 

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Equipment:

Dogs must attend sessions on a fixed lead attached to a flat collar or well-fitted body harness. (A harness must be worn for loose lead walking training - recommendations will be sent once session is booked). 

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The following equipment is not permitted during sessions: 

• Choke or check chains 

• Prong collars 

• Shock or spray collars 

• Extendable (flexi) leads 

If unsuitable equipment is used, the session will not proceed and will be forfeited.

 

Training Methods:

Training with Follow My Lead - The Canine Advocate is reward-based, force-free and welfare-focused, using positive reinforcement methods only.

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Clients are expected to follow this approach during sessions and when practicing exercises with their dog. Harsh handling or aversive training methods will not be tolerated. 

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Training outcomes vary depending on factors such as consistency, environment, and the dog’s individual needs. Clients are responsible for implementing training advice between sessions to achieve the best results.

Where specialist clinical behaviour support is required, an appropriate referral will be recommended.

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Dog Health & Welfare:

For the safety and wellbeing of all dogs and participants: 

• Dogs should be in good health when attending sessions. 

• Please do not attend if your dog is unwell or showing signs of illness (such as vomiting, diarrhoea, coughing, or lethargy). Sessions can be rescheduled if your dog is unwell. 

• Puppies should be vaccinated in line with veterinary guidance appropriate to their age. 

• Owners are responsible for ensuring their dog is protected against parasites and disease. 

 

I reserve the right to end a session at any time if I believe safety or welfare is compromised. In such cases, the session will be forfeited.

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Client Disclosure:

Clients must provide accurate and honest information regarding their dog’s behaviour, history and any relevant medical or behavioural concerns. 

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This includes (but is not limited to): 

• Previous aggression or bite history 

• Reactivity towards people or dogs 

• Medical conditions 

• Any behavioural incidents 

 

Failure to disclose relevant information may pose a safety risk and may result in the termination of services without refund.

 

Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, owners remain legally responsible for their dog’s behaviour at all times. 

 

Restricted (‘Banned’) Breeds:

Training may be provided for legally exempt restricted breeds where all legal requirements are met.