Policies & Frequently Asked Questions

 

General Questions:

 

Q: What type of training style do you use?

A:  We use reward based training methods as proven effective in the science of learning theory

 

Q: Is there a guarantee for your training?

A:  "The truth is, finding a trainer who is experienced, personable, and uses positive, gentle methods is more important than a guarantee of a quick fix. Any ethical trainer will strive to work with you until your dog’s problems are solved, no price gauging involved. If you cooperate with the trainer and put in the time and effort to practice with your dog in a kind, consistent manner, not only will new skills be learned and behavior problems solved, but you will also be strengthening the bond between you. And that’s a guarantee." 

(Answer provided by Nicole Wilde an internationally recognized author of 10 books on dog training and behavior, lecturer and a CPDT-KA.)

 

Q: Do you offer payment plans?

A: We do not offer payment plans; payment is due prior to or when services are rendered.

 

Q:  Is my puppy too young to train?

A: We are successfully training puppies as young as eight weeks.  Young puppies are like sponges when it comes to training.

 

Q:  Is my dog too old to train?

A: We've had dogs in class as old as 9 years of age.  You can teach an old dog new tricks.  Our training works with canines of all ages.

 

Private Training Questions (Facility & In-Home):

 

Q: Do I need to have anything prepared for my first private training appointment?

A: It would be best if you had several types of treats for all of your training sessions.  These would include kibble, soft moist packaged treats and super high value treats such as hot dogs, cheese, boiled or grilled chicken breast (whatever your canine relishes more than anything else!) cut into tiny pieces, about the size of a pea.  Lastly, please do not feed your canine at least two hours before your training session.  

 

Q:  What training tools and/or items do I need?

A:  A flat buckle collar or harness with a 6' leash is all you need.  No choke, prong, electric collars or other pain-inflicting training tools are allowed during the training appointment in-home or on training facility premises, including the parking lot.  No exceptions.  If you are unable to handle you dog on-leash, please contact  us in advance.

 

Q: Do you charge a mileage fee if you come to my home?  

A: There is not a mileage charge for locations outside the city of Plattsburgh.  The mileage fee is charged at the current federal rate per mile.  Locations further than 15 miles from the city of Plattsburgh will have mileage and a minimum additional fee of $30.00.  For these locations full payment will be required in advance of your scheduled appointment. 

 

Q: What is your cancellation policy for private sessions?

A: There is no charge for cancellations and reschedules made more than 48 hours in advance.  We would then offer your private training session time to other clients who are waiting to schedule with us.  However, cancellations or a reschedule made within 48 hours of your appointment time will incur a $50.00 charge. 

 

Q: What vaccinations are required for private training?

A: All canines must be up-to-date on their vaccinations for their age.  For younger puppies who are training at the facility or in-home, we require that you wait 10 days after their first set of shots prior to your first private training appointment.   

 

Q: What methods of payment do you accept?  

A:  Cash or check are our preferred method of payment.  Payment is expected at the time of your appointment.  Please make checks payable to: My Canine Companion, LLC.  We also accept credit cards.  First however you must contact us to make an appointment.  The credit card payment is required 24 hours before your appointment.  Please follow this link to make a credit card payment.  

 

Q: When I arrive at the facility is there a potty area?

A:  Please use the small yard on the north side of the facility.  Owners are responsible for cleaning-up after their own canine while on the premises.  Please be sure to bring your own poop bags.

 

 

Class Session Questions:

 

Q:  What should I do if I have to cancel my enrollment in a class?

A:  If you must cancel you class enrollment, we require a minimum of 7 days notice prior to the start date of the class.  That will enable us to offer your spot to other clients who may be on the wait-list.  There is no charge for cancellations made more than 7 days in advance.  There are no refunds (or class credit) given for cancellations made within 7 days of the start of class unless we are able to fill your spot with another student.  

 

Q: What happens if I enroll in a class, but it is already full or is cancelled?  

A: Since there are no class refunds., you will automatically be placed in the next class session. 

 

Q:  If I or my dog can't make it to class.  What should I do? 

A:  If your dog is unable to attend, we suggest that you still attend class.  If you cannot attend class, please contact the instructor in advance (if possible).  

 

Q:  Should I have someone else bring my dog if I can't attend a class session?

A:  Not unless they have been attending the class with you.  Your stand-in won't understand what to do during class, your dog will likely become stressed and confused, and the other dogs in class may be distracted or reactive to a new stranger.

 

Q:  Can I receive a refund for the classes I have missed?

A:  There are no refunds for portions of group classes that are missed. 

 

Q:  Are there any make-up options if I miss a class?

A:  Option 1 - Read the homework and handouts for the week you'll be missing and work at home.  As you do so, feel free to email the instructor with any questions that you have.  The homework and handouts are all very well detailed and are a great resource for staying on track if you have missed a class.

      Option 2 - If you would like some hands-on help with the class material for the week you have missed, you can schedule a make-up lesson.  This is a 30 minute private lesson specifically to review the class material that you missed.  The tuition for this service is $45.00.

 

Q:  What if my dog goes into heat?

A:  No refunds can be given for dogs that come into heat within the 72 hours prior to the start of class or after the class has already started.  Students that are unable to attend class for this reason may transfer into the next class section of the same class, provided there is available space.  Dogs that are in heat should not attend class from the first sign of their heat cycle until 10 - 14 days from the last sign of blood.  

 

Q:  What vaccinations do my dog need to participate in class?

A:  The minimal standard vaccinations are DHHP (or titers showing immunity) plus rabies by 4 months of age.  We also strongly recommend the Bordetella vaccine.

 

Q:  Can my child attend class?

A:  Children under 12 years of age are not allowed in the training room or agility field.  Older children are welcome with an adult in attendance.  Children under the age of 17 may not be dropped off with the dog to participate in class in the absence of a parent or guardian.