Training Policies

 

As dog-lovers and dog owners ourselves, the welfare and wellbeing of our canine clients is of paramount importance to us, as is our reputation as trustworthy, honest and reliable trainers.

 

Before commencing a training programme with any client, it is important to know that we are on the same page regarding their dog's needs.  If we feel that our ability to train your dog/s properly and thoroughly – and possibly our reputation – may be compromised as a result of inadequate commitment by all members of the family to the continued training, exercise, bonding and care of your dog on your part, we may decline to undertake such training.​

 

Training Requirements

 

1. You must be at least 18 years old to commence training, and be able to provide valid photo identification (ID or passport).

2. Any and all individuals who will be interacting with the dog/s on a daily basis and who are therefore required to know and understand training commands, must attend the lessons, in order to maintain consistency in the dog’s training (see point 5 below).  Please note: We do not permit other trainers to be present at training sessions since (1) this constitutes mentorship/teaching; and (2) we do not advocate working with more than one trainer due to potential contradictions/conflicts in teaching styles and experience (this includes soliciting training advice on social media, or using additional online or print media resources to train your dog). 

3. Third Way Canine will not be held responsible for the welfare of any children under the age of 18 left with us unsupervised during training.  We therefore politely request that, if parents/guardians would like minors to attend training sessions, they do so only when at least one parent or guardian is present.  Third Way Canine will not be held liable for any accident or injury occurring as a result of failing to abide by this requirement.

4. When you book training with Third Way Canine, you agree to learn, abide by and practise the tried and tested training methods we employ and teach, in order to maintain consistency for your dog.  Inconsistent training methods may result in a dog becoming confused and training rendered ineffective.  Please ensure you have read and are fully on board with our "House Rules", a copy of which will be sent to you after your first session or evaluation with us.

5. Training is an ongoing process throughout the lifetime of the dog, not a "one and done", or an "app" you download into your dog's brain.  Training is a habit you form and maintain; practice and repetition are the key to strong foundations for an obedient and contented dog.  We do not offer estimates on the timescale required to get your dog to where you want it to be; training is on your terms, but on the dog's timetable.  As with everything in life, the more you put in, the more you will get out - and so will the dog!

6. Please ensure that your dog is ready for your training session, wearing a properly-fitted collar and leash, before the trainer arrives.  Collars should never be loose enough that they can slip over a dog's head; do the "two finger test" every time you put the collar on.  Leashes are a wonderful training tool, and not just something for walking the dog.  No retractable (e.g. Flexi) leads and no harnesses will be permitted unless the dog has a veterinarian-diagnosed condition that requires it to wear a harness; proof of such will be required prior to the commencement of training.

7. Third Way Canine uses, and advocates the use of, crates for dogs when they are left unsupervised.  A good breeder will likely have already started pups on crate training before they go to their new owners, and this is a habit a wise owner will continue for not only the dog's safety and security, but the safety and security of the home.  If you feel that a crate is something you would be unwilling or unable to incorporate into your dog's life and training, we would counsel you to find an alternative trainer as the use of crates are, extenuating circumstances aside, something on which we are not prepared to compromise our training ethos.

8. Cancellation & Refund Policy: Please ensure your session or package is paid for by the due date shown on the invoice.  If payment has not been received by the due date, your session or package will be cancelled.  Sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice will be charged in full.  If payment has not already been made, the cost of the cancelled lesson will be added to the cost of the subsequent session.  Refunds will not be given for behaviours that continue as a result of training being incorrectly or inconsistently applied.  Refunds will not be given if incorrect equipment is used on the dog and the training session cannot proceed.  Third Way Canine will not be held liable, and gives no refunds, for training rendered ineffective, or injuries sustained, as a result of clients failing, or refusing, to follow correct method and procedure or for the consequences of experimenting with a method, system, or technique learned elsewhere (internet/other trainer/book etc).  Refunds are not offered for refusal or inability to stick to the training discussed and agreed. We do not offer refunds for consultations, evaluations, or sessions booked with us and cancelled due to a change of mind, but we are happy to reschedule or hold the booking forward for 1 year from the original evaluation or training package date booked.

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Our Promise To You

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At Third Way Canine, our intention is to set you up for success - right from the start.  We want to give you the tools, and teach you to form the habits, that will enable you to continue working and communicating effectively with your dog/s once our services are no longer required.  We want to get you and your dog/s to where you want to be, with patience and persistence.

 

Our promise to you is that, by following the training habits we will introduce you to, combined with appropriate exercise and a good diet, you will be rewarded with a calm, happy and obedient family member you will be proud to have by your side.