What to expect

Policies

Clear, fair policies so you know exactly what to expect before I start working together. If anything here doesn't make sense, just ask.

Cancellations & Rescheduling

  • Please provide at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule.
  • Cancellations with less than 24 hours' notice may be subject to a $75 late-cancellation fee.
  • No-shows without notice will be charged the full lesson rate.
  • Rescheduling is easy — just call, text, or use the booking link.

Payment

  • Payment is due at the time of service unless arranged otherwise in writing.
  • I accept cash, check, Venmo, Zelle, and major credit cards.
  • Gift certificates are available and make great presents for new dog owners.

Travel & Service Area

  • In-home lessons are included within a 20-mile radius of downtown Indianapolis.
  • Locations beyond 20 miles may incur a travel surcharge of $3.50 per mile — I'll let you know upfront before I book.
  • Service area includes Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield, Zionsville, Greenwood, Brownsburg, and more.
  • Public-environment sessions at parks or pet-friendly retail are available when appropriate for your training goals.

Weather Policy

  • In-home lessons proceed as scheduled regardless of weather — I'm working inside your home.
  • If a session involves outdoor work and severe weather makes it unsafe, I can pivot to indoor drills or reschedule at no charge.
  • Extreme heat or cold may shift outdoor portions to shaded areas or earlier/later times for your dog's comfort.

Equipment

  • You'll need a standard 6-foot leash and a flat collar to start.
  • Depending on your dog's needs, I may recommend specific tools (e.g., long line, prong collar, e-collar) and will explain exactly why.
  • I never require equipment purchases you don't need. You are free to source tools yourself or purchase through me.
  • If you already own training equipment, bring it to the first session and I'll evaluate whether it's appropriate for your program.

Dog Aggression Around Children and Pregnancy

  • I'm glad to work with families who have children at home or a baby on the way. If your dog is not showing aggression toward children or a pregnant woman, I'm happy to help you train your dog.
  • Because the risk of a child being hurt is so high, I do not take on training when a child under 18 lives in your home and your dog has growled, snapped, nipped, guarded resources, or bitten any person, whether or not that person lives with the dog.
  • I also do not take on training when someone in your household is pregnant and your dog has done any of those things to any person, whether or not that person lives with the dog.
  • I also do not take on training when a child under 18 lives in your home and you have more than one dog and they are fighting with each other.
  • These situations take constant management and focus, and in my experience most households can't or won't keep that up long term. One lapse can mean a child is injured, and that is a risk I'm not willing to take.

Satisfaction & Follow-Up

  • My goal is honest, lasting results — not a quick fix.
  • Between sessions, you can text or email questions. I typically respond within one business day.
  • If you're not seeing progress after several lessons, I'll adjust the plan together. Every dog learns at a different pace.
  • Payments for lessons and packages are final and not refundable, including any prepaid lessons that go unused. I will still work with you to adjust the plan and make sure you feel supported.

My commitment to you

You and your dog get my full attention — not a rotating cast of trainers or a packed schedule that rushes through sessions. I'll show up on time, communicate clearly, and give you a plan that actually works in your real life — not just in a training facility.

Still have questions?

Call, text, or email — I'll get back to you within one business day.

Or email me directly at hello@unleashthegooddog.com