Assumption of Risk
I understand that participating in dog training classes, Barn Hunt activities, and events involving dogs includes certain risks. These risks may include, but are not limited to:
- Dog bites or scratches
- Injury to dogs, handlers, instructors, guests, or property
- Slips, trips, falls, or collisions
- Reactions between dogs
- Stress, excitement, fear, or overstimulation in dogs
- Exposure to outdoor/property conditions
- Risks associated with working around straw/hay bales, tunnels, equipment, enclosed rats, and other class materials
I understand that even with reasonable precautions, dogs can be unpredictable, and accidents may happen.
I voluntarily choose to participate and accept full responsibility for myself, my dog, and any guests I bring onto the property.
Release of Liability
I agree to release, waive, discharge, and hold harmless BAK9RATitudes, Country Road Canines, LLC, their owners, instructors, staff, assistants, volunteers, property owners, and representatives from any and all claims, damages, injuries, losses, expenses, or liability that may occur before, during, or after participation in Barn Hunt classes or related activities.
This includes, but is not limited to, injury to myself, my dog, other people, other dogs, or personal property.
I understand that I am financially responsible for any injury, damage, or incident caused by myself, my dog, or any guest I bring.
Dog Health & Vaccination Policy
I confirm that my dog is healthy enough to participate in class activities and is current on the following required vaccinations (titers are acceptable)
- Rabies
- DHPP/DAPP
- Bordetella
I agree not to bring my dog to class if my dog has shown signs of illness within the past 48 hours, including but not limited to:
- Coughing
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Contagious illness symptoms
- Fleas, ticks, or signs of parasites
Females in heat may not attend class without prior approval.
If my dog appears sick, unsafe, overly stressed, or not appropriate for class that day, I understand that the instructor or facility may ask us to sit out or leave.
Barn Hunt & Rat Safety Policy
I understand that Barn Hunt classes involve live rats that are safely enclosed in approved protective tubes.
I agree to follow all instructor directions regarding rat safety, tube handling, dog handling, and class setup.
I understand and agree:
- Rats are never to be handled by participants unless specifically permitted by the instructor.
- Dogs may not be allowed to paw, bite, shake, crush, or aggressively attack rat tubes.
- Handlers must keep dogs under control around rats and equipment.
- Rough or unsafe behavior toward the rats, equipment, people, or other dogs may result in removal from class.
The safety and welfare of the rats are a priority at all times.
Handler & Dog Policy
For safety and smooth class flow, I agree to the following:
- Dogs must remain on leash unless directed otherwise by the instructor.
- No retractable leashes are allowed.
- Handlers must keep space between dogs.
- Dogs should not greet other dogs unless both handlers and the instructor approve.
- Dogs must be pottied before class.
Owners are responsible for immediately cleaning up after their dogs.
- Dogs may need to wait in their vehicle or designated area between turns.
- Reactive, nervous, or excitable dogs are welcome when safely managed, but must be handled responsibly.
- Handlers must follow the instructor's directions at all times.
- Children or guests must remain supervised and may not interfere with dogs, rats, or class.
- I understand that Barn Hunt is meant to be fun, confidence-building, and safe. I agree not to force, scare, punish, or physically pressure my dog during class.
Training Expectations
I understand that results are not guaranteed. Each dog learns at their own pace, and progress may vary based on temperament, confidence, drive, previous training, and handler participation.
I understand that this class is an introduction to Barn Hunt skills and may include:
- Building interest in the hunt
- Searching for rat tubes
- Straw bale work
- Tunnel introduction
- Handler timing and teamwork
- Confidence-building exercises
- Basic Barn Hunt rules and safety
Property & Facility Rules
Country Road Canines, LLC is private property. I agree to follow all facility rules while on the property.
I understand:
- Arrival and departure must be respectful and on time.
- Dogs must be leashed when outside the vehicle unless directed otherwise.
- Smoking, vaping, or alcohol use is not allowed on the property during class.
- Gates must be kept closed.
- Participants may only access areas designated for class use.
- The training field, dock pool, kennels, home areas, and other parts of the property are not included unless specifically authorized.
Class Payment, Cancellation & Refund Policy
Class fees are due at the time of registration unless otherwise stated.
Because class spots are limited, cancellations must be made at least 7 days before the class start date to receive a refund.
Cancellations made less than 7 days before the class start date are non-refundable, but may be eligible for a transfer or credit toward a future class if approved.
Missed classes, no-shows, or late arrivals are not eligible for refunds or make-up sessions.
If class is canceled by BAK9RATitudes or Country Road Canines, LLC due to weather, instructor availability, facility needs, or safety concerns, reasonable effort will be made to reschedule.
Photo & Video Release
I give permission for BAK9RATitudes and Country Road Canines, LLC to take photos or videos during class for educational, promotional, social media, or website use.
Agreement to Follow Policies
I understand that failure to follow class rules, safety instructions, facility policies, or expectations for respectful conduct may result in removal from class without a refund.
I understand that the instructor and/or facility may refuse to allow any dog or handler to participate if there are safety, health, behavioral, or policy concerns.