Policies

Methods

Teaching Animals Academy is dedicated to methods using positive reinforcement and least intrusive interventions to shape the behavior of both animals and humans with kindness, cooperation, and clear communication. We welcome all families to our School, and we advocate for those currently using aversive methods to transition toward reinforcement-based methods. We will actively support students as you pursue your goals of a relationship based on trust and clear communication between your family and your pets. If you are currently using a prong, choke, or electronic training collar to safely take your dog out into the world, please schedule a Tutoring Session for assistance with class placement before enrolling in any group class.

Appropriate Dogs for Group Classes

Dogs who lunge, bark, snap, etc. at people or other dogs are not ready for most group classes and may be excused from class at any time by the instructor. If you have seen your dog display these behaviors, sign up for Tutoring Sessions before enrolling in any group class. If you are excused from class, unused tuition may be applied to Tutoring Session fees. No refunds will be given.

Refund Policy

You may receive a refund under the following conditions:

• You have enrolled in and paid for a class, and cancel your registration at least 10 days before the start of class.
• You have signed up and paid for a Tutoring Session or other a la carte service and cancel your booking at least 10 days before the service date.

Funds Transfer Policy

You may transfer your payment to a different class, session, or service if you notify us of the change at least 10 days before the start of class or scheduled service date. If you notify us within 3 days before the start of class, you may transfer 50% of your funds to the new class.

Cancellation of Class

Classes may be cancelled by TAA in the event of instructor illness, inclement weather (temperatures below 20F or above 90F or unsafe road conditions) or other environmental issues beyond our control. If a class is cancelled, a public post will be made on our social media pages and students will be messaged directly no later than 1 hour before the start of class. A refund will be issued for the cancelled class under these circumstances (minus card processing fees).

Dog Illness or Injury

If your veterinarian has diagnosed an illness or injury preventing your dog from attending class, you must notify us at least 2 hours in advance and provide documentation from your veterinarian. We will apply a credit for the missed class to future classes. No refund will be issued.

Make-Up Classes

Make-up classes are not usually available. The owners of TAA reserve the right to offer make-up classes or not at their sole discretion on a case-by-case basis.

Vaccinations

We require every dog attending Teaching Animals Academy to be current on age-appropriate vaccinations for DHPP, Rabies, and Bordetella. Puppies 8 weeks and older must have received at least one DHPP vaccine before attending puppy class. For additional guidance on early puppy development and socialization, please see the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior's Position Statement on Puppy Socialization.

Questions about these policies? Please contact us.