Animal Behaviour & Training

Invoicing & Payment Methods -

Payment for services are to be made online safely through Square. Upon enrolling in a course, the client will be sent an invoice that is to be paid prior to the course start date. When engaging private training services, an invoice will be sent prior to or after the booking date, and is due to be paid within one (1) week of services being provided. Unpaid invoices may be given to a debt collection agency, we may be required to provide them with your personal information and contact details. Cash will not be accepted unless arrangements have been made prior to a service being provided. If you have a cancellation history, you may be requested to pay a non-refundable deposit to make a booking. If a deposit is requested, and not paid for prior to a booking, a booking may be cancelled at any time. If payment for a previous service has not been made, future bookings may be cancelled. Payment arrangements and plans can be created. Please keep in communication with us if you are finding it difficult to pay your invoices. We try to be as flexible as possible to support pets and their owners, however service providers need to be paid for their work.

Refunds -

No refunds will be provided due to a change of mind. Refunds will not be provided for a course once the service has commenced. Refunds for private consulting services may be provided at the discretion of the Director. If you wish to request a refund, please contact us in writing at shelbythornanimalbehaviour@gmail.com.

Consumer Gaurentees -

You understand that your animal may not be fully trained by the end of a training program, whether it be a course or private consulting the participant engaged in. You understand it is up to the owner(s) and/or family to continue the animals training and implement advice provided for the greatest likelihood for desirable outcomes. Service providers will endeavor to assist where necessary in order for the owner(s) and/or family to work with their pet, but implementation of advice and practice is a large component of behaviour modification. You understand that behaviour is also influenced by genetics, physiology, environment and prior learning, because of this we do not guarantee training outcomes but rather provide educated predictions based on behavioural data. You understand that where your pet is negatively impacted by these components, you may be referred to a Veterinary Behaviourist.

Safety, Loss or Damage - 

Any person/s handling an animal during Behaviour & Training services must be 16 years old or over. Handlers and those involved in training of any kind including but not limited to consults, dog walking, training, seminars or classes must adhere to any and all safety instructions and directions given by a Trainer or other service provider. By attending and/or participating in any Animal Aid services, you understand and take full responsibility for any damage, loss and/or injury to yourself, your dog(s), your pet(s) and/or any parties attending and/or participating in a service with you. If your pet has a history of using aggression, including but not limited to barking, lunging, lip curling, growling, snapping or biting, you have a responsibility to and therefor must inform the Behaviour & Training Team prior to your service so that we can support you and your pet best.

Training Tools -

We do not use or recommend training tools designed to inflict pain or discomfort upon animals, whether it be physical or psychological. The use of correction chains, e-collars, prong collars, or unnecessary use of martingale collars or head halters are not permitted. Please contact us if you have questions or concerns regarding this. The use of retractable, bungee or chain leashes in class are not permitted. These are not appropriate training tools, are unsafe and increase the risk of accident or injury.

Class Cancellations -

You understand that courses must have a minimum of four participants enrolled in order for the course to begin. If a course does not reach this requirement the start date may change, or the course may be cancelled. Participants are required to attend all sessions as outlined in a course. If a participant is unable to attend a class, they should inform the us as soon as possible. We will support the client in rescheduling where possible, however we are not always able to. You therefor are at risk of forfeiting the missed class if you do not attend. Refunds will not be given for classes missed at the participants expense, including if they are unable to attend a rescheduled lesson.

Weather Policy -

In the occurrence of extreme heat, storm, rain or wind conditions it is at the service provider's discretion as to whether or not a booking will go ahead. As extreme weather can cause animals to become panicked, anxious, less focused or have the potential to get overheated and/or ill. The service provider will take into account a pet’s well-being as the utmost priority. We will advise you as soon as possible as to whether or not a service will go ahead and endeavor to reschedule for a more appropriate time where possible, however request your flexibility in relation to cancellations due to weather. Servicing being rescheduled are not always possible.

Vaccinations -

If you have enrolled in a course, you must scan or email us a photo of your dog's vaccination card prior to your course start date. Dog’s are legally required to be vaccinated before entering any animal training facility under the Victorian Code of Practice for the Operation of Dog Training Establishments. We need to keep a copy of this for our own records.

Photography & Film -

You give Shelby Thorn Animal Behaviour permission to take images and/or video footage of your pet and/or your property as this can sometimes be seen in the background. You give permission to publish such media to social platforms including, but not limited to, business websites, social media, articles, advertising or other promotions.

Yoga 

Booking & Payment -

All class bookings must be made in advance through our website or booking platform; Square.Payment is required at the time of booking to secure your spot in the class. Class fees are non-refundable unless a class is canceled by us.

Class Participation -

Participants must be at least 18 years of age, or have written consent from a guardian to participate. By attending, you confirm that you are physically fit to participate in the yoga class, and you are not suffering from any medical conditions that would prevent you from doing so. If you have any medical concerns or injuries, please consult your doctor before attending classes and inform the instructor of any relevant conditions prior to the class. You are responsible for practicing yoga in a safe manner and for adjusting the intensity of your practice according to your own abilities.

Cancellations & Rescheduling -

If you need to cancel or reschedule your booking, please provide at least 24 hours’ notice. Late cancellations or no-shows may incur a fee. We reserve the right to cancel or reschedule classes in the event of unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, you will be notified, and you can choose to reschedule or receive a credit for the missed class.

Code of Conduct -

We ask all participants to be respectful of the space, instructors, and other students. Please arrive at least 5 minutes before the start of the class. Late arrivals may not be permitted to join the session. Please silence your phone and refrain from any disruptive behaviour during class. We do not tolerate any form of harassment or discrimination in our classes.

Liability

By attending our yoga classes, you accept responsibility for your own physical health and safety during the practice. We are not liable for any injury, loss, or damage that may occur as a result of participation in our yoga classes. You agree to follow all safety instructions provided by the instructor during the class.

Online Classes -

You are responsible for ensuring a safe space for your practice, including sufficient space, proper flooring, and a stable internet connection. We are not liable for any technical issues or disruptions during online classes. By joining an online class, you consent to your image or video being shared within the class if cameras are turned on.

Privacy -

We respect your privacy. Your booking and payment information is securely processed through our payment platform; Square. By attending classes, you consent to receiving communications related to your bookings and services from us. You agree to our photography and film policy as a Shelby Thorn business.

Amendments to Terms & Conditions -

We reserve the right to amend these terms and conditions at any time. Any changes will be communicated to participants via email or through our website.

By participating in Shelby Thorn services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to these terms and conditions.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us. Thank you for being a part of our community!