PolicyonChildren

Policy Regarding Children in the Training Center

updated 2/16/08

Policy Regarding Children in the Training Center

As a trainer trying to balance dog training

and

running a family-

friendly

training

center, I

have

rules about children in the

training

center

and participating in class.

Our policy is that you must be at least 12 years old to handle a dog during class. The classes

are for adults and are taught at a level that is challenging for adults - and usually moves too

quickly for children.

Children

12 and older

may participate

with permission

from instructor.

If it

doesn’

seem to be working out, I will ask the

adult to take over

If you bring

young

children, an

adult who is not

working with the dog or

puppy

must accompany

the child. Please

bring something for your child to do (books,

crayons etc).

Children must stay off the dog obstacles

such

as the see saw,

jumps, and boards

Children must sit in the designated area

behind the barriers

stay

out of the training

ring, and

remain

seated

and

quiet during class. This policy is

for

several reasons including:

		Liability issues.
		Safety of the children – not all dogs are used to children and/or like them and not all dogs
		are under the complete control of their owners.
		Owners, dogs, and I find it distracting to have children in the training area.

I highly recommend that parents

buy and

read the book “Living with Kids and Dogs without

Losing Your Mind” written by

Colleen Pelar. I

often have copies in stock for sale.

It is always best if the adult learns the techniques and

can then direct and supervise the

children on a less formal level and

incorporate the skills into your home.

Do not promse your chilren that they may work the dog in the class. Depending on their age

and the behavior of your dog and others in the class, your child may be disappointed when I

say the child must stay seated.

Who May Train

Please –only one owner in the training ring at a time. Only the adult or approved child who

training the dog is allowed into the training ring to avoid confusing the dog. Owners may

switch places during class if desired.