1. Handlers must be 18 years old
2. Dogs must be at least 2 years old
3. Dogs must be on leash at all times. No "flex-ees". The handler must never allow a dog to approach another dog or person without being told to do so by the instructor.
4. One handler, one dog. Only handlers who have completed the program may handle the dog at facilities. If multiple people will be handling the dog at facilities, all must attend all classes separately with the dog.
5. Children under age 6 are not allowed in the training class. Children older than 6 may come to class but may not participate in the training with their family member or interact with family members or any other people or dogs during class.
6. Dogs must be housetrained: Any "accidents" in the classroom will be cleaned by the owner. Repeated accidents are considered grounds for dismissal from the program. If this occurs after the second week, there will be no refund.
7. Dogs must be in excellent health and give the appearance of being so. The health evaluation form and vaccination records from veterinarian must be presented the first night of class.
8. Dogs must be clean, well-groomed and free of all parasites such as fleas and ticks. Dogs must have healthy coats without flaky skin or dandruff
9. Dogs are to be free of any residue from topical applications such as Frontline, Advantage or Revolution as well as flea and tick shampoos or dips. These applications, shampoos or dips should be applied at least three days before class.
10. We expect 100% attendance and participation from all teams. Unforeseen emergencies must be cleared by the trainer. Failure to attend required classes will result in non-compliance, making the applicant ineligible for certification. No refund of the training class fee will be returned under these circumstances.
11. No other dog training classes may not be substituted for the PAWS for Service training classes. This includes dogs with obedience titles as well as teams receiving other trainer's private lessons.
12. Completion of training classes does not guarantee a team will successfully complete the certification. If it is decided at certification that a team is not ready for visitation, the team will have an opportunity to re-take the class and be evaluated again. If the dog commits an act of aggression during evaluation, the team will not be allowed to re-take the class.