Please ensure that you have read and understood these Terms and Conditions before making a booking.  By placing, you are deemed to have read, understood and expressly accepted them.

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General (Applicable to all Classes):

• All dogs must remain on the lead at all times unless otherwise told so by the instructor

• All dogs coming to and from the training area must be kept on a lead.   Dog should not be allowed to wander to be released loose from cars

• Dogs should always be kept under control, failure todo this and therefore any injury caused by your dog is your responsibility

• If you are booked onto a group class, please be respectful and keep a safe distance from other dogs in the group at all times

• All dog mess must be cleaned up inside or outside the training arena.  The front lawn/drive is not a toilet area, and please refrain from using it as such, try to ensure that your dog has an adequate chance to go to the toilet before coming to class

• There are horses on site at Paws Academy Dog Training, please be respectful of the horses, and do not wander around the premises for your own safety, or touch/interact with the horses

• All dogs mess must be bagged up and taken home, please do not leave this on the horses muck heap

• All gates which are opened must be closed behind you

• Owners are advised to have appropriate pet insurance cover that includes third party liability insurance.  Paws Academy Dog Training has public liability and relevant business insurance to run classes and provide training

Vaccinations:

• Please ensure that your dogs are sufficiently protected by vaccination or titre testing to protect them and other dogs

• Please bring a copy of your dogs vaccination records to the first class so that we may view them (we do not keep a copy of the vaccination record)

• Should you chose/refuse to vaccinate your dog(s), you agree to participate in training at your own risk, and the risk of your dog(s).  Owners/Guardians are responsible for their unvaccinated dog(s)

Illness and attendance:

• Please do not attend sessions with your dog if they have been ill within the last 14 days.  Illness includes (but not limited to):  Respiratory illnesses, Coughing, Diarrhoea, Vomiting.  If you are unsure, please contact us prior to arriving for your lesson

Demo Dogs:

• At times we use one of our demo dogs in training sessions to aid training.  It is your responsibility to keep your dog a safe distance from the demo dog at all times

• Under no circumstances will your dog be allowed to interact with the demo dog, they are there to do their job and are not part of the socialising for your dog

• Whilst everyone tends to fall in love with our demo dogs, please refrain from wanting to touch them, this includes whilst they are working, and whilst they are crated awaiting work

Bitches in Season:

• Unless pre-arranged for 1-2-1 sessions/behaviour consultations we unfortunately cannot have in-season bitches in any of our group classes.

• We do however, strongly advise for you to attend the class without your dogs so that you can continue the education at home, please discuss this with us beforehand if you are concerned or have any questions

Weather:

• Paws Academy Dog Training will apply personal judgement and may cut short a class, if necessary, because of extreme weather conditions, including (but not limited to):  Excessive heat, torrential rain, thunder storms, snow and ice - This is to ensure the safety of everyone involved, other animals and members of the public

• If the road conditions are too bad to access our venue safely a refund for that training session is at the discretion of Paws Academy Dog Training

• If the weather conditions are too bad to hold the planned training session, Paws Academy will look to rearrange the session at a time which is mutably agreeable.  A refund for that training session is at the discretion of Paws Academy Dog Training

Covid 19:

• Please ensure that if you or anyone in your household is displaying any symptoms, or you have been told to self isolate please do not attend any of your booked class

• If you start to display symptoms (or anyone in your household does) please contact Paws Academy Dog Training, so that we can contact the relevant people who may have been in contact with you during your class

• Hand Sanitiser is available on entry to our training arenas, please use it upon entry/exit

Children in Class:

​We encourage children to share in the training process (with the exception of behaviour modification sessions) and children over 9 years of age may train in person.   Please observe our guidelines for their participation:

• All minors (under 18) must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian or have written permission from a parent or guardian to attend with another adult who will serve as the minor's guardian during class

• Children must remain under parental supervision at all times

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For Behaviour Consultations:  

• To secure a booking at Paws Academy, we require a non-refundable deposit to be paid within 7 days of making the booking. This deposit confirms your session and ensures your chosen slot is reserved exclusively for you. If the deposit is not received within the specified time frame, we reserve the right to release the slot to other clients. The deposit amount will be applied towards the total cost of your session. By paying the deposit, you agree to these terms.

• The balance to be paid on the day of the assessment.  If the assessment is cancelled up-to 7 working days before the appointment, this deposit will carry over to the new booking.  If it cancelled less than 7 working days before, or for a second time, then the deposit is lost, and a full booking fee will need to be paid to secure a new date.

Please note that by starting the consultation process you are agreeing to the following:

• You understand what we may have to work in conjunction with your vet and that we may insist on a medical check up and vet involvement if it is felt appropriate

• You understand and agree that we reserve the right to terminate this Agreement at any time and refund your money in part or full without any further liability or obligation to you

• You understand that your participation and involvement is a key part of accomplishing the agreed upon goals and objectives

• You understand that there are often no quick fixes and that it can take time and hard work to help modify a dog's behaviour.   You also acknowledge that some behaviours can only be modified and not totally changed.  You also recognise that control and management is often the best option to remove stress and unwarned behaviours

• You assume sole responsibility for the behaviour of the dog and forever release, hold harmless, and indemnify Paws Academy Dog Training or anyone working with or for Paws Academy Dog Training, from any harm or damage caused by you or your dog to any person or persons or property at the time

• Furthermore, you expressly and irrevocably forever waive and relinquish any and all claims against Paws Academy Dog Training.   You understand that Paws Academy Dog Training is in no way responsible for the behaviour of your dog during or after training.

• You recognise that the services offered are designed to provide science led, force-free advice and suggest protocols to follow which aid in training and behaviour modification.  The onus is on you, the client, to do the work needed and follow the guidance given

• If at anytime during the training, Paws Academy Dog Training reasonably believes that the dog is ill, abused, exhibiting reactive, fearful, compulsive, anxious, phobic, or any behaviours which may interfere or endanger the health and safety of any participants or bystanders, including the dog, your agree that they may unilaterally end any training session

• The dogs' welfare is always paramount.   Some sessions may be cut short if the dog is exhibiting high levels of stress/anxiety.  This can be decided by the trainer, or by you, or by any of the dog's guardians

Reactivity (aggression) towards Humans:

• The behaviour of your dog and the liability attached to the behaviour is solely your responsibility and will always remain so

• In the case of where the dog has a bite history - you understand that the only way to guarantee a dog no longer uses biting is to euthanise the dog.  There is recognition that no guarantees can ever be made about any dog that they will not show signs of biting or become dangerous​

By completing and sending the History Form you are agreeing to these terms and conditions.

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For Virtual Coaching:  

• All fees for Paws Academy Virtual Coaching programs are payable in full at the time of booking - this is non refundable.

• Unauthorised sharing, recording, or reproduction of the coaching sessions and materials is strictly prohibited. 

• Participants are expected to behave respectfully and professionally during all virtual coaching sessions.

• Paws Academy reserves the right to terminate access to the program if a participant’s behaviour is deemed inappropriate, disruptive, or violates these terms. No refunds will be issued in such cases.

• Paws Academy does not guarantee specific outcomes or results from the virtual coaching programs.

• While we strive to provide valuable guidance and information, participants acknowledge and agree that any decisions or actions taken as a result of the coaching are their sole responsibility.

• All content, materials, and resources provided during the program are the intellectual property of Paws Academy.

• Participants are not permitted to share, sell, or distribute any part of the program materials without prior written consent.

• ​Paws Academy reserves the right to update or modify these Terms and Conditions at any time. Participants will be notified of any significant changes.

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For Puppy School, Other Classes, Special Events & Workshops:  

• To secure a booking at Paws Academy, we require a non-refundable deposit to be paid within 7 days of making the booking. This deposit confirms your session and ensures your chosen slot is reserved exclusively for you. If the deposit is not received within the specified time frame, we regretfully reserve the right to release the slot to other clients. The deposit amount will be applied towards the total cost of your session. By paying the deposit, you agree to these terms.

• The remaining balance is due on the day of the lesson (or the first lesson of a block booking). Please note: once a place has been reserved, the full fee is payable, whether or not you attend.

• The balance to be paid on the day of the lesson/first lesson of a block booking series.  

• For standalone booking - If the training is cancelled up-to 7 working days before the appointment, this deposit will carry over to the new booking.  If it cancelled less than 7 working days before, or for a second time, then the deposit is lost, and a full booking fee will need to be paid to secure a new date

• For workshops - All deposits for workshops are strictly non-refundable if the participant chooses to cancel or not attend for any reason. In such cases, a new deposit and full booking fee will be required to secure a new date.

• For block bookings/puppy school, special event courses - All deposits for block booking and courses are strictly non-refundable if the participant chooses to cancel or not attend for any reason.  We are unable to refund once the course has commenced and partial refunds for missed classes are not given.  In such cases, a new deposit and full booking fee will be required to secure a new date.

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Puppy School, Other Classes & Workshops:​

• We limited the number of dogs in our classes to provide the appropriate trainer to dog ratio

• All training must be booked in advance

• You must not knowingly book a dog that shows aggression or nervousness onto a general training class or agility class (these should be booked into behaviour modification classes unless there is a specific course which is intended to address a specific behavioural issue)

• Paws Academy Dog Training reserves the right to excuse dogs which are aggressive in class for the safety of everyone

• For livelier, excitable dogs, it may be beneficial to exercise your dog before class with a game or short walk.  Do not over exercise your dog before a class, otherwise they will be too tired to participant (if you are unsure, please contact us for advise prior to the class)

​Please note that by booking any of the Paws Academy Training Classes:

• You understand and agree that we reserve the right to terminate this Agreement at any time and refund your money in part or full without any further liability or obligation to you

• You understand that your participation and involvement is a key part of accomplishing the agreed upon goals and objectives

• You recognise that the services offered are designed to provide science led, force-free advice and suggest protocols to follow which aid in training.  The onus is on you, the client, to do the work needed and follow the guidance given

• You assume sole responsibility for the behaviour of the dog and forever release, hold harmless, and indemnify Paws Academy Dog Training or anyone working with or for Paws Academy Dog Training, from any harm or damage caused by you or your dog to any person or persons or property at the time

• Furthermore, you expressly and irrevocably forever waive and relinquish any and all claims against Paws Academy Dog Training.   You understand that Paws Academy Dog Training is in no way responsible for the behaviour of your dog during or after training.

• If at anytime during the training, Paws Academy Dog Training reasonably believes that the dog is ill, abused, exhibiting reactive, fearful, compulsive, anxious, phobic, or any behaviours which may interfere or endanger the health and safety of any participants or bystanders, including the dog, your agree that they may unilaterally end any training session

• The dogs' welfare is always paramount.   Some sessions may be cut short if the dog is exhibiting high levels of stress/anxiety.  This can be decided by the trainer, or by you, or by any of the dog's guardian

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Agility Classes/Workshops:

• We limit the number of dogs in each agility class to ensure the appropriate trainer-to-dog ratio and provide safe, individualised guidance.

• All agility classes must be booked in advance.

• You must not knowingly book a dog for agility training that has severe aggression or extreme nervousness unless they are enrolled in a specific behavioural modification course designed to address such issues.

• Paws Academy Dog Training reserves the right to excuse any dog from an agility class if they show behaviours that may risk the safety of themselves, other dogs, or people present.

• Dogs participating in agility should be in good physical health and cleared for physical activity by their vet if there are any concerns.

• For high-energy dogs, a light warm-up walk or gentle play before class can be beneficial; however, avoid exhausting your dog before agility work to ensure they have the energy and focus to participate fully.

• Handlers are required to wear appropriate footwear for agility sessions to reduce the risk of slips, trips, or injury. Details of suitable footwear can be found here: The Right Footwear for Dog Agility Handlers Paws Academy Dog Training accepts no responsibility or liability for any accident, injury, or incident resulting from wearing incorrect footwear.

• Agility equipment is designed for use by dogs only. It must never be used by children, adults, or any non-canine participants under any circumstances for safety reasons.

Please note that by booking any of the Paws Academy Agility Classes:

• You understand and agree that we reserve the right to terminate this Agreement at any time and refund your payment in part or in full without further liability or obligation to you.

• You understand that your participation and involvement are vital to helping your dog progress in agility training and achieve agreed-upon goals.

• You acknowledge that agility training is physically demanding for dogs and requires gradual skill-building, patience, and consistent reinforcement.

• You accept full responsibility for your dog’s behaviour during agility sessions and agree to release, hold harmless, and indemnify Paws Academy Dog Training and its staff from any harm, damage, or injury caused by you or your dog to any person, dog, or property at the time.

• You expressly and irrevocably waive any and all claims against Paws Academy Dog Training relating to your dog’s behaviour during or after agility training.

• If at any point Paws Academy Dog Training reasonably believes your dog is unwell, injured, overly stressed, or exhibiting behaviours that may compromise the safety of themselves, others, or equipment, we may unilaterally end the session.

• The welfare and safety of all dogs remain our highest priority. Sessions may be shortened or modified if your dog shows signs of fatigue, anxiety, or stress, as determined by the trainer, you, or your dog’s guardian.

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Field Hire (Including Agility Equipment)

• Field hire sessions must be paid in full at the time of booking. Bookings are non-refundable if cancelled within 7 days of the hire date.

• If you wish to use the agility equipment during your hire, an assessment lesson must be completed with Paws Academy Dog Training prior to booking. This is to ensure safe and correct use of all equipment.

• Any damage to the agility equipment caused during your hire will be charged to you, the hirer, for repair or replacement costs.

• Agility equipment is designed for dog use only and must never be used by children, adults, or any non-canine participants under any circumstances.

• Handlers are required to wear appropriate footwear for using the agility area and equipment to reduce the risk of slips, trips, or injury. Details of suitable footwear can be found here: The Right Footwear for Dog Agility Handlers. Paws Academy Dog Training accepts no responsibility or liability for any accident, injury, or incident resulting from wearing incorrect footwear.

• Dogs using the field must be in good physical health and free from any illness or injury that could be made worse by physical activity. If in doubt, please consult your vet before booking.

• Paws Academy Dog Training reserves the right to end your session immediately, without refund, if unsafe use of the equipment is observed, or if behaviour from dogs or handlers puts safety at risk.

• All hirers are responsible for cleaning up after their dogs and must take any dog waste (poo) home with them for disposal. Leaving waste in the field or bins is not permitted.

• All hirers must leave the field and equipment in the condition in which it was found.​

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Instalment Payment Terms:

If you choose to pay via an instalment plan, you are entering a binding agreement to pay the full course fee over the agreed payment schedule.

By selecting this option, you acknowledge that:

• You are committed to paying the full balance, regardless of course progress or completion.

• Failure to make scheduled payments may result in suspension of access to course materials.

• No refunds will be issued for payments already made under the installment plan.

• If payments are repeatedly missed or defaulted, your access may be permanently revoked and recovery action may be taken to reclaim outstanding amounts.

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Dogs Subject to Breed-Specific Legislation (Ireland)

Clients whose dogs fall under the Control of Dogs Regulations 1998 (Restricted Breeds) are fully responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable laws while participating in any in-person training sessions, group classes, workshops, or events held by Paws Academy.

This includes, but is not limited to:

 

• Ensuring the dog is muzzled in all public spaces, including on approach to and at the training venue

• Using a short, strong lead (2 metres or less) at all times

• Ensuring the handler is over 16 years of age and physically capable of managing the dog

• Ensuring the dog is under control and not a danger to the public or other animals

 

By attending any in-person event, the owner or handler agrees to take full legal and financial responsibility for the dog’s behaviour and compliance with these legal requirements. Paws Academy reserves the right to remove or refuse participation to any client or dog if legal requirements are not met, or if the safety or wellbeing of others is at risk. Where appropriate, clients may be advised to undertake private sessions before joining group classes. Paws Academy, its staff and contractors, accept no liability for any incident arising from a client’s failure to comply with Irish legal requirements related to restricted breeds.

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For Online Courses:​

• All online courses must be paid for in full at the time of booking.

• Payments for online courses are non-refundable, regardless of whether the course has been started, completed, or accessed.

• Once purchased, access details will be sent to the participant and may not be shared with others.

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By booking a training session with Paws Academy Dog Training, you are agreeing to these terms and conditions.

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Digital Product Downloads:

All digital products provided by Paws Academy, including but not limited to graphics, e-books, PDF guides, posters, templates and other downloadable resources, are the intellectual property of Paws Academy and are protected under copyright law. By purchasing or downloading any digital content from this website, you agree to the terms outlined below.

 

These materials are intended for personal use, private educational use, and individual client-facing work. You are welcome to print them for your own reference, share them in one-to-one client sessions, or display them as physical posters or handouts in your professional setting. This includes use in clinics, training spaces, schools or educational events, where the material remains clearly credited and unaltered.

 

You must not modify, edit or adapt any part of the content. This includes changing text, swapping out images, reformatting layout, or adding any external branding. You are not permitted to place your own business name, logo, watermark or contact details on any part of the materials. All digital products must remain exactly as provided.

 

Digital downloads are not licensed for online sharing or distribution. This includes uploading files to websites, sharing them on social media, embedding them into online courses, or adding them to client libraries or cloud folders. Preview versions or graphics containing visible watermarks are for viewing purposes only and must not be shared, printed or reused in any capacity.

 

All downloads are intended for individual use and may not be uploaded to shared platforms, third-party tools or file-sharing systems without express written permission from Paws Academy. If you would like to use a product in a way that goes beyond these terms, including internal team use or inclusion in your own training materials, you must request written consent in advance.

 

Paws Academy takes care to ensure that all resources are accurate, clearly presented and useful. However, we accept no responsibility for how the material is used once downloaded. We are not liable for printing issues, formatting differences, user error, or misinterpretation of the information provided. All content is used at your own risk and discretion.

 

Because of the nature of digital products, all sales are final. Once a file has been delivered or accessed, we cannot offer refunds or returns. If you are unsure whether a product is suitable for your needs, please contact us before making a purchase. We are always happy to answer questions or provide clarification.

 

By downloading any digital product from Paws Academy, you confirm that you understand and accept these terms. For licensing enquiries or special use permissions, please email Renee at renee@thetrainingofdogs.com.

 

These terms are governed by the laws of Ireland. Any disputes will be handled exclusively by the Irish courts. Paws Academy reserves the right to update these terms at any time without prior notice. We encourage you to review this page from time to time for any changes.

 

Thank you for respecting the time, skill and care that go into creating these materials.