By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read, understand, and agree to the terms and conditions for participation in Mel's K9 free training sessions. I understand that participation is at my own risk, and I release Mel's K9 and associated parties from any liability.
WAIVER, RELEASE OF LIABILITY, ASSUMPTION OF RISK, AND HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT
Mel’s K9 Free Public Training Sessions
By signing this Agreement, I acknowledge and agree as follows:
1. VOLUNTARY PARTICIPATION
I voluntarily choose to participate in training activities, demonstrations, handling exercises, educational programs, and related activities offered by Mel’s K9, The Pit Chic Dog Training, property owners, sponsors, volunteers, instructors, assistants, and affiliated parties (collectively referred to as the “Released Parties”).
I understand that participation is entirely voluntary and that I may withdraw at any time.
2. ASSUMPTION OF RISK
I understand that participation in dog training activities involves inherent risks, including but not limited to:
Dog bites
Scratches
Falls
Trips and slips
Injuries caused by my dog or another dog
Equipment failure
Leash entanglement
Aggressive or unpredictable animal behavior
Property damage
Illness or disease transmission
I knowingly and voluntarily assume all risks, known and unknown, associated with participation.
3. OWNER RESPONSIBILITY
I certify that:
I am the legal owner, foster, or authorized handler of the dog.
My dog is physically capable of participating.
My dog is free from any contagious illness that may endanger other animals or people.
I will maintain control of my dog at all times.
I will use appropriate equipment as directed by instructors.
I will immediately remove my dog if directed to do so by event staff.
I understand that I remain solely responsible for the actions and behavior of my dog at all times.
4. RELEASE OF LIABILITY
To the fullest extent permitted by law, I release, waive, discharge, and covenant not to sue the Released Parties from any and all claims, demands, damages, losses, causes of action, liabilities, costs, expenses, or attorney fees arising out of or related to:
Personal injury
Death
Dog bites
Property damage
Veterinary expenses
Medical expenses
Emotional distress
Loss of companionship
Any injury caused by any animal, participant, spectator, volunteer, or third party
whether caused by negligence or otherwise, except where prohibited by law.
5. HOLD HARMLESS AND INDEMNIFICATION
I agree to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the Released Parties from any claim, lawsuit, demand, judgment, loss, damage, cost, or expense, including attorney fees, arising from:
My participation;
My dog’s actions or behavior;
Any injury or damage caused by me or my dog;
Any violation of this Agreement.
6. NO GUARANTEE OF RESULTS
I understand that dog training involves many variables and that no guarantees, warranties, or promises have been made regarding training outcomes, behavior modification, socialization, obedience, or future behavior.
7. EMERGENCY MEDICAL OR VETERINARY CARE
If an emergency arises and I cannot be reached, I authorize event personnel to seek emergency veterinary or medical treatment deemed necessary.
I understand that all costs associated with such treatment remain my sole responsibility.
8. VACCINATION AND HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
I certify that my dog:
Is current on legally required rabies vaccination, unless exempt by law;
Is free from known contagious disease;
Has not displayed symptoms of communicable illness within the previous fourteen (14) days.
I understand that proof of vaccination may be requested.
9. PHOTOGRAPHY AND MEDIA RELEASE
I grant permission for photographs, videos, audio recordings, and images of myself, my family members, and my dog to be used by Mel’s K9, The Pit Chic Dog Training, and affiliated organizations for educational, promotional, advertising, fundraising, and social media purposes without compensation.
10. MINOR CHILDREN
If I bring a minor child, I certify that I am the child’s parent or legal guardian.
I assume all responsibility for the child’s supervision, safety, and conduct.
11. RIGHT TO REFUSE OR REMOVE PARTICIPANTS
Mel’s K9 and event staff reserve the right to refuse participation or remove any person or animal for safety reasons without explanation.
12. GOVERNING LAW
This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of New York.
Any dispute arising from participation shall be brought exclusively in a court of competent jurisdiction located in Erie County, New York.
13. SEVERABILITY
If any provision of this Agreement is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.
14. ACKNOWLEDGMENT
I certify that:
I have carefully read this Agreement.
I fully understand its contents.
I understand that I am giving up certain legal rights.
I sign this Agreement freely and voluntarily.
I am at least eighteen (21) years of age or am signing as the parent/legal guardian of a minor participant.
By signing below, I agree to be legally bound by this Agreement.