POLICIES

Nondiscrimination Policy

Heeling Souls K9 Training works with all clients without discrimination. Services are offered regardless of disability, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, or socioeconomic status.

The program is committed to accessibility and inclusion, ensuring all clients have equal opportunity to participate in training their service dog. Heeling Souls knows how much a service dog can change someone's life and is committed to making training accessible, supportive and inclusive as possible for those who need it.

Respect and Dignity Policy

At Heeling Souls K9 Training, all clients are treated with respect, dignity, and professionalism at all times.

We are committed to creating a safe, supportive learning environment where every client feels heard, valued, and understood. We recognize that each person’s experience and disability is unique, and we approach every team with empathy, patience, and without judgment.

Clear and honest communication is a priority. You can expect guidance that is supportive, straightforward, and tailored to your individual needs.

We view our clients as active partners in the training process. Every dog and handler team is different, and we adjust our approach to support how you and your dog learn best.

Our goal is not only to train your dog, but to help you feel confident, capable, and empowered. This includes building your skills as a handler and supporting you in learning how to advocate for yourself and your service dog in the real world.

Our Methods Policy

At Heeling Souls K9 Training, we focus on positive reinforcement and force-free training methods that are rooted in science and real-life success.

Our goal is to build strong, trusting relationships between you and your dog. We focus on clear communication, consistency, and creating skills that actually hold up in everyday life. Not just in training sessions.

Your dog’s well-being is always a priority. We take the time to make sure they feel safe, confident, and supported, both emotionally and physically. We believe that the best service dogs are the ones who enjoy their work and feel good doing it.

Because of this, aversive tools such as prong collars, choke chains, and e-collars are not used within our program.

If you’re currently using these tools, that’s okay you’re still welcome here. We’re happy to support you in transitioning to a force-free approach in a way that feels comfortable, realistic, and completely judgment-free.

I didn’t always train this way. Earlier in my journey, I used aversive tools myself. As I learned more and shifted to force-free methods, I saw a huge change. Not just in the dog’s behavior, but in the handlers confidence, happiness, and team relationship.That experience is a big part of why I’m so passionate about helping others make that transition in a way that feels supportive and judgment-free.

Confidentiality Policy

All client information is kept strictly confidential.

This includes:

Personal information
Medical or disability-related information
Training records and progress

Information will not be shared without explicit client consent, except where required by law.

Records are stored securely to protect client privacy.

Harassment Policy

Heeling Souls K9 Training is committed to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all clients and staff. Harassment or threatening behavior will not be tolerated. We reserve the right to end any session if this occurs, and the full session fee will still apply. We may also decline future services in these situations.

Cancellation and Missed Sessions Policy

Clients are responsible for attending all scheduled training sessions. Any missed sessions or cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice will be charged in full and are not eligible for rescheduling or refund. Clients are encouraged to select lesson days and times carefully to ensure consistency in training.

Rescheduling Policy

Clients may reschedule a session at no additional cost provided that a minimum of 24 hours’ notice is given. Rescheduled sessions must take place within three weeks of the original session date. It is the client’s responsibility to request and schedule a new session within this timeframe. If a session is not rescheduled, it will be considered forfeited.

Refund Policy

All payments are non-refundable. This includes missed sessions, unused sessions, or early withdrawal from the program. In the event that Heeling Souls K9 Training terminates this agreement, any applicable refund will be prorated based on the remaining unused time within the current billing period.