Acknowledgment of Risk
I understand that working with dogs, especially those displaying behavioral concerns such as fear, anxiety, reactivity, or aggression, carries inherent risks. These risks include, but are not limited to:
Dog bites or scratches to myself, my family, the consultant, or others
Injury caused by jumping, pulling, lunging, or sudden movements
Property damage
Emotional distress related to behavior modification
I acknowledge that no guarantees have been made regarding the outcome of behavior modification or training.
Responsibility for My Dog
I understand and agree that I am solely responsible for the management, supervision, and control of my dog at all times, including during and after consultations.
During the consultation, I agree to:
- Follow all safety and management instructions provided
- Use recommended tools and management strategies (leashes, crates, gates, muzzles, etc.)
- Prevent situations that may put people or animals at risk
- Disclose any bite history or aggressive behavior honestly and completely
Bite History Disclosure
I certify that I have fully disclosed any known history of my dog snapping, biting, or injuring a person or another animal.
Assumption of Risk
I voluntarily assume all risks associated with participating in behavior consultation and training with my dog.
I understand that behavior work may involve exposure to triggers, handling exercises, and environmental situations that may cause my dog to react.
Release of Liability
Waiver and Release I hereby waive, release and forever discharge and hold harmless HSWM and its successors and assigns (collectively, “Releasees”) from any and all liability, claims, demands and causes of action which may hereafter accrue to my estate as a direct or indirect result of my participation. We understand and acknowledge that this Release discharges the Releasees from liability or claims that we may have with respect to bodily injury, including, without limitation, animal bites or scratches; illness; death; or property damage. We also understand that the Releasees do not assume any responsibility or obligation to provide financial assistance, including, but not limited to, medical, health, or disability insurance, in the event of injury, illness, death or property damage.
Medical Treatment I hereby release and discharge the Releasees from any and all liability claims, demands, and causes of action on account of first aid or other medical treatment rendered during Minor’s participation as a volunteer or guest at HSWM.
Photographic Release I hereby grant and convey to HSWM all rights, title and interest to any and all photographs, images, video and audio recordings made by HSWM during activities with HSWM that include image or likeness, including, without limitation, to any royalties, donations, proceeds or other benefits derived from such photographs or recordings. I permit HSWM to publish any such images, recordings and videos at will on its website, social media sites, marketing materials and in other media for advertising and other use as HSWM deems appropriate in its sole discretion.
Other This Release is intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted by law, and this Release shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of Michigan. In the event that any clause or provision of this Release is determined to be invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, the invalidity of such clause or provision will not affect any other provisions of this Release.
I hereby release and hold harmless Humane Society of West Michigan, its board, employees, volunteers, and affiliates from any and all liability, claims, demands, actions, or causes of action arising out of or related to:
- Injury to myself, family members, or others
- Injury or death of my dog or other animals
- Damage to property
- Any incident occurring during or after consultation services
This release applies regardless of whether the incident occurs on my property, in public, or at another location during consultation.
No Guarantees
I understand that dog behavior is influenced by genetics, environment, history, and consistency of management. I acknowledge that:
Results depend heavily on my participation and consistency
There are no guarantees of behavior change
Most behaviors may be managed rather than fully resolved
Veterinary & Medical Responsibility
I understand that behavior issues can have medical causes. I agree that I am responsible for seeking veterinary care if recommended and for informing the consultant of any medical conditions or medications.
Agreement
By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read, understand, and agree to this Liability Release and Informed Consent.