On-site Training Policies, Terms and Conditions

Dogs and/or handlers can be dismissed at any time by instructors or owners for any reason. All handlers and dogs are expected to comply with the following.

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Dog Behavior and Safety

• Leash and Crate Policy: Dogs must be on a leash or in a crate unless actively participating in an exercise, sequence, or course and the owner/handler has control. No more than one dog should be off-leash in an enclosed area at a time. We recommend a crate as the safer option. 

• Collars: Only flat buckle collars or quick-release collars without tags are allowed. Choke chains, prong collars, and shock collars are prohibited. Gentle leaders or harnesses may be used with prior consent from the instructor but not while on equipment..

• No Dog Play: Dogs are not allowed to play with each other before, during, or after class. Handlers should maintain 3 feet between their dog and other dogs.

• Training Methods: Harsh corrections, jerking, pulling, or intimidating methods are not tolerated. Golden Acres classes are based on positive reinforcement dog-friendly training methods.

Disruptive or Unsafe Behavior

• Control: Handlers must keep dogs under control at all times. Dogs should not invade others’ space (no wandering even on a leash near another dog), charge at people or dogs, or run excessively in the ring during their turn.

• Time-Outs: Disruptive dogs may be asked to take a time-out. Repeated or unsafe behavior may result in removal from the class session without a refund.

• Unsafe Behavior: Dogs excused for unsafe behavior must meet Golden Acres requirements (e.g., behavioral evaluations and reactive dog training) before returning to classes on a trial basis, if at all.

• Any dog that is observed or reported to display aggressive behavior in the eyes of the instructor or a fellow handler, volunteer, owner, or staff member may be dismissed. 

• Any handler who fails to have their dog under control may be dismissed. 

• Any human who shows aggressive behavior will be dismissed. 

Class-Specific Rules

• Barking: Some barking is expected, but handlers should minimize it as much as possible, as this can be a trigger for other dogs. Dogs that are noisy in their crates may be asked to crate from their car.

• Bitches in Season: They are allowed in class with pants at the handler's discretion. The handler should take into account the other dogs in the class before determining whether or not they want to bring their dog, i.e., intact males. 

• Reactive/Aggressive Dogs: Aggressive dogs are not permitted in classes/workshops. Barking at, lunging, or staring may be considered aggressive behavior. Reactive dogs may be accepted for building rentals on a case-by-case basis. 

• Sick Dogs: Dogs showing signs of illness (e.g., conjunctivitis, kennel cough, ringworm, vomiting, diarrhea) are not allowed to attend class, league, rental, or workshops.

Facility and Equipment Rules

• Dog Waste: Handlers must clean up after their dogs inside and outside the facility. The potty area is to the right of the barn. There is a disposal container in front of the barn. A $10 fine applies for accidents anywhere inside the facility.

• Leashes Outside: Dogs must remain on a leash outside the Golden Acres building.

• Collars: Leather or nylon buckle collars with no tags are required for agility participation. Flexi-leashes are prohibited.

Scheduling and Attendance

• Class Length: Most classes are 55 minutes per week for 6 weeks. The first or last 5 minutes are for review and announcements. 

• Missed Classes: No make-ups or switching to another class night. Instructors will do their best to review missed exercises upon return.

• Cancellations: Classes may be canceled for severe weather or other reasons. A make-up session will be offered if scheduling permits.

Registration and Refunds

• Registration: Classes will not be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. We will determine the best fit for each class opportunity. Payment must accompany registration.

• Refund Policy: There are no refunds unless we can fill your spot from the waitlist. Please note: we don’t always have a waitlist. 

Additional Notes

• Class Progression: Handlers should consult instructors before moving to the next level.

• Multiple Dogs: A separate registration form and payment are required for multiple dogs.

• Class Announcements: Instructors will provide updates about upcoming events and suggestions for practice at the beginning or end of each class.

This document ensures a safe and productive learning environment for all participants. Thank you for adhering to these guidelines.