Dog Training Participation and Safety Agreement
The Holistic Dog Method
Last updated: 30 March 2026
This agreement outlines the responsibilities, expectations, and risks involved when participating in training services provided by The Holistic Dog Method (“THDM”).
Dog training works best when both trainer and owner understand their roles in creating a safe and supportive learning environment for people and dogs.
By booking or attending services provided by THDM, you acknowledge and agree to the terms outlined below.
Commitment to Professional Standards
The Holistic Dog Method is committed to operating responsibly and professionally.
THDM maintains:
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Public Liability Insurance
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A current Wellington Shire Council Domestic Animal Business Certificate of Registration
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Compliance with the Domestic Animals Act 1994 (Victoria) and other relevant animal welfare legislation
These requirements help ensure services are delivered safely and responsibly within the legal framework that governs domestic animal businesses in Victoria.
Understanding the Nature of Dog Training
Working with dogs involves some degree of unpredictability. Dogs may react suddenly to unfamiliar environments, people, or other animals.
Training activities may include:
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private training sessions
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behaviour consultations
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training walks
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group classes
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community walks
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workshops or educational events
While THDM takes reasonable precautions to manage risk, participation in training activities involves some inherent risk.
Owner Responsibility
Owners remain responsible for their dog at all times during training.
This includes responsibility for any injury or damage caused by their dog to:
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other people
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other dogs
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property
Handlers are expected to maintain reasonable control of their dog and follow the guidance provided during sessions.
Behaviour History Disclosure
For training to be conducted safely and effectively, owners must disclose any known behaviour concerns before training begins.
This includes any history of:
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aggression toward people
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aggression toward other dogs
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biting incidents
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severe fear or reactivity
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guarding behaviour
Providing accurate information allows the trainer to plan sessions appropriately and reduce risk for everyone involved.
Failure to disclose relevant behavioural information may result in the session being paused or stopped for safety reasons.
Dog Health and Fitness
Owners confirm that their dog is physically capable of participating in training activities.
Dogs should not attend sessions if they are:
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unwell
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injured
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suffering from a contagious condition
If a dog becomes injured or unwell during a session and veterinary care is required, the owner authorises THDM to seek assistance if necessary.
The nominated veterinary clinic is:
Gippsland Veterinary Hospital
Maffra, Victoria
Any veterinary costs remain the responsibility of the dog owner.
Training Methods and Equipment
Training methods may involve a variety of equipment depending on the needs of the dog and the goals of the training program.
This may include:
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collars
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harnesses
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leads and long lines
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enrichment tools
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other training aids designed to improve communication between dog and handler
In some circumstances, additional training tools may be discussed as part of an individual training plan.
Electronic collars (commonly referred to as e-collars) are regulated in Victoria under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulations 2019. These regulations place restrictions on the sale and use of devices that deliver an electric stimulus.
The Holistic Dog Method does not sell or supply electronic collars.
If the use of an e-collar is ever discussed as part of a training plan, this will only occur:
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with the owner’s informed consent, and
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in accordance with Victorian animal welfare legislation
Where appropriate, a separate e-collar consent and training agreement will be required before any training involving this equipment takes place.
Owners are encouraged to ask questions and discuss any concerns about training methods or equipment used during the training process.
Safety During Training
The safety of people and dogs is always the priority.
A session may be paused, modified, or ended if:
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safety becomes a concern
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instructions are not followed
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the dog appears unwell or overly stressed
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relevant behavioural information has not been disclosed
These decisions are made to protect both dogs and handlers.
Shared Risk Acknowledgement
While THDM takes reasonable care to manage training environments, owners understand that dog behaviour cannot be fully predicted.
By participating in training services, owners acknowledge that:
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they remain responsible for their dog’s behaviour
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training activities involve some level of risk
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participation in training is voluntary
Nothing in this agreement limits rights provided under Australian Consumer Law.
Agreement
By booking or attending a session with The Holistic Dog Method, you confirm that:
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you have read and understood this agreement
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you accept the responsibilities outlined above
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you agree to participate in training in a safe and cooperative manner