Animal Welfare Policy
We are committed to protecting the welfare of dogs. Dogs are treated with respect and as individuals. We only utilize humane methods as outlined in the BC SPCA AnimalKind standards: https://animalkind.ca/dog-training-and-care-services/humane-dog-training/
These include reward-based and evidence-based methods, and exclude methods that cause intended pain, suffering, or prolonged physical or emotional discomfort. As examples, we will not utilize dog training devices that are intended to cause unpleasant states to teach the animal to stop the behaviour, such as prong collars, shock collars, water spray, etc. Any use of aversive stimuli, such as yelling, leash tension, and restraints will only be used during an emergency (e.g., during a dog fight) with the understanding that such procedures may harm the relationship between the dog and the owner and will not teach appropriate behaviour.
We will report observations or information related to animal mistreatment by another member of our team. We also expect owners to speak up for and advocate for their dogs regardless of the situation. Dr. Sasha Protopopova will be responsible for responding to allegations of the mistreatment of animals by another employee or owners.
As Member of the International Association Animal Behavior Consultant, we support the IAABC Statement on LIMA strategies (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive): https://m.iaabc.org/about/lima/ and we follow an Hierarchy of Procedures for Humane and Effective Training Practice: https://m.iaabc.org/about/lima/hierarchy/
Agreement and Liability Waiver
Vaccinations: Upon request, I agree to provide the documentation issued by a veterinarian stating that my pet is current on required vaccinations or titers.
Health and Behaviour Disclosures: I will disclose pertinent health and behaviour information, (including previous bite history, allergies, food intolerances) of my pet to Protopopova Animal Behaviour Consulting at the time of booking an appointment.
Payment: I agree that payment must be received by Protopopova Animal Behaviour Consulting in order to hold the time of the session. Payment is due at the time of booking an appointment. For single sessions, a full payment is due at the time of booking. For “Packs" (or multi-session service packages), at least a third of the payment is due at the time of booking with the rest due after the first session. All services are non-refundable.
Cancellation Policy: I understand that cancellations of sessions at no cost must be done at least 48 hours in advance of the session. No refunds will be issued after that time unless in an emergency situation as determined by Protopopova Animal Behaviour Consulting. Rescheduling of sessions must be done at least 4 hours in advance. Unless determined to be an emergency by Protopopova Animal Behaviour Consulting, late cancellations or rescheduling requests less than 4 hours before the session will be considered as “no shows”.
No shows: I agree that no refunds will be issued if I do not come to the booked session.
Conduct: I agree to abide by the Animal Welfare Guidelines as published on the website (www.theacademicdog.ca) during the time that I am using the Protopopova Animal Behaviour Consulting services.
Liability and risk waiver: I recognize that in attending training or behaviour consulting sessions by Protopopova Animal Behaviour Consulting there may be risk to myself, any family member or guest in attendance, my pet(s), and my personal property. With full knowledge, I release Protopopova Animal Behaviour Consulting, Alexandra Protopopova, and all associated persons from any and all responsibility for accidents, loss, injuries or infections, and damage or theft to any person, animal or property. I am at all times responsible for the actions of my pet. Protopopova Animal Behaviour Consulting, Alexandra Protopopova, and all associated persons are not responsible for any injuries or expenses resulting from training, behaviour consulting sessions, or given advice.
By using the service, I acknowledge that this Agreement is binding upon me and the members of my family and household.
Privacy Policy
Who we are
THE ACADEMIC DOG: Dog Behaviour Consulting and Education Service owned by Benjamin Bonhomme (76553 2668 BC0001).
Protopopova Animal Behaviour Consulting owned by Alexandra Protopopova (79573 6909 BC0001).
Our website address is: https://theacademicdog.ca
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