Paws Etiquette Terms & Conditions for Dog Training Services in Essex

Welcome to Paws Etiquette. By booking or participating in any of our services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to the following Terms and Conditions.

1. Business Details

Paws Etiquette is owned and operated by Natalie Childs, Head Trainer since 2022. All training is carried out under her direct supervision unless otherwise stated.

2. Booking Information

Booking Methods: You can book via:

Website: pawsetiquette.com
Phone/WhatsApp: 07702 310693
Email: natalie@pawsetiquette.com

Group Classes:

Dates will be published on the website.
To register interest, contact us directly. Waitlisted clients are notified before courses are advertised.

One-to-One Training:

Register your interest via website, phone, or email.
You’ll receive a free introductory call to discuss your dog and arrange the first consultation.

Booking Confirmations:

Sent via your preferred contact method (email, WhatsApp, or SMS) and include full details of your sessions.

3. Communication

WhatsApp, phone, and email are our primary communication tools.
You may be added to relevant WhatsApp groups for training tips, social updates, and support.
We may use session photos/videos for social media.
Clients are expected to provide regular progress updates. Failure to do so may result in service termination.

4. Payments, Cancellations & Refunds

Accepted Payment Methods: Bank transfer, website payment, card, or cash.

Group Classes:

Full payment is due 1–2 weeks prior to start.
Payment not received within 48 hours of start may result in cancellation.
If deposits are accepted, the balance is due before the first class.

One-to-One Sessions:

Full payment is due 48 hours before each session.
No-shows or late payments may lead to cancellation or loss of booking.
Travel costs apply for journeys over 5 miles (agreed in advance).

Bulk Booking Discounts:

Book 4 sessions: 4th is half price
Book 6 sessions: 6th is free
Discounts must be arranged at time of booking and can’t be applied retroactively.

Cancellations:

Cancel before the initial consultation: Full refund.
Cancel or reschedule with 48+ hours’ notice: Full refund or reschedule.
Cancel with less than 48 hours’ notice: 50% refund for that session only.
If we must cancel: We'll reschedule or refund as appropriate.

5. Training Sessions (Group & 1:1)

Dogs Must Be:

On lead unless otherwise agreed.
Wearing well-fitted collars/harnesses.
Under control at all times — muzzled if there's a known bite history.
Free of illness or parasites.

Not Allowed:

Choke, prong, e-collars, slip leads, or any aversive tools.
Aggressive or unsafe behaviour without prior discussion.

Owner Responsibilities:

Clean up after your dog.
Ensure safe, working lead/harness.
Supervise all interactions.

Equipment Use:

Only when directed by the trainer.
Toys and enrichment tools should be used under supervision.

Stooge Dogs:

May be used for specific training. Clients are responsible for keeping safe distances and using muzzles if required.

6. One-to-One at Your Home

Keep your dog secured when the trainer arrives.
Initial introductions may occur outside.
Notify us of any anxiety/reactivity in advance.

7. Health & Vaccinations

All dogs should be healthy, vaccinated, and de-flea’d/wormed.
We may request proof of vaccination.
If in season, please contact us before class.
Dogs unwell on the day should not attend.

8. Children in Class

Welcome with supervision (under 18s must be with an adult).
Must not interrupt sessions, touch dogs without permission, or handle puppies.
With consent, children may participate actively.

9. Advice & Behaviour

Paws Etiquette does not provide behaviourist-level services.
If required, we will refer to a qualified behaviourist.
Advice is tailored to your dog only and not transferrable.
All guidance requires owner commitment and consistency.

10. General Conditions

Paws Etiquette is fully insured.
Mobile phones must be on silent during training.
We reserve the right to refuse service for inappropriate behaviour.
Banned breeds must comply with UK law.
Results are not guaranteed — training requires time and effort.
Cars parked at owner’s risk.

11. Agreement

Booking with Paws Etiquette constitutes agreement with these terms and conditions. We reserve the right to update them at any time without prior notice.