Frequently Asked Questions

Contact & Communication

  • Text or email. Expect a response within 24 hours. Faster responses may occur for urgent safety, health, or scheduling chYou may text or email me. I keep my phone on silent while working hands-on with dogs. Expect a response within 24 hours. Messages related to safety, health, or same-day scheduling changes may receive a faster response.

  • No. Social media is not monitored for communication or scheduling.

  • Updates are shared via Instagram stories. Board-and-Train dogs receive priority updates. Current clients may be added to the Close Friends list for additional behind-the-scenes updates.

Scheduling

  • Clients are responsible for scheduling their own appointments using the provided scheduling links. Appointments are not confirmed until a confirmation email is received.

  • No. Live availability is always visible through the scheduling system.

  • You may email me at hi@theactualizedcanine.com or text 970-822-7125.

Cancellations, Rescheduling, Holidays

  • Same day cancellations or reschedules may result in forfeiture of the service cost. No-shows are charged in full.

  • No. I do not offer drop-offs or pick-ups on holidays.

  • No. I continue to care for dogs and run Train & Stays through holiday periods. Only intake and exit logistics are unavailable on those dates. Availability is limited and must be planned around the holiday schedule.

  • Clients must plan drop-offs and pick-ups outside of these dates. This schedule is updated annually.

    2026 SCHEDULE

    Saturday, February 14 - Valentine’s Day

    Sunday, April 5 - Easter

    Sunday, May 10 - Mother’s Day

    Monday, May 25 - Memorial Day

    Saturday, July 4 - Independence Day

    Friday, Aug 21 - Personal Day

    Monday, Sept 7 - Labor Day

    Monday, Sept 14 - Personal Day

    Saturday, Oct 3 - Personal Day

    Saturday, Oct 31 - Halloween

    Thursday, Nov 26 - Thanksgiving

    Thursday, Dec 24 - Christmas Eve

    Friday, Dec 25 - Christmas

    Thursday, December 31 - New Year’s Eve

  • Sessions may be rescheduled due to unsafe or disruptive weather without penalty. Group sessions proceed unless canceled collectively.

Arrival, Drop-Off, Pick-Up

  • Pull into the driveway and park immediately to the left upon entering. Remain in your vehicle and wait.

  • No. I have a motion sensor and will know when you arrive. Please wait in your vehicle until I come out to meet you.

  • For safety, scheduling flow, and to prevent unnecessary stimulation.

    • Train & Stay / Stays:
      • Morning: 7:00–8:30 am
      • Evening: 5:00–6:30 pm

    • Academy: drop-off at 8:30 am, pick-up at 5:00 pm

    • 1:1 Coaching: arrive at your scheduled time only

Safety & Owner Responsibilities

  • Owners are responsible for follow-through, structure, and maintaining routines outside of sessions.

  • No. Results are not guaranteed due to variables outside the trainer’s control.

  • There are no refunds if training is ended early due to rehoming, euthanasia, or other premature termination.

Intellectual Property

  • No. All TAC materials are protected intellectual property and may not be copied, shared, or distributed.

Equipment Requirements

  • No. Please do not purchase training tools unless we have discussed them first. Purchasing equipment too early often results in the wrong size, style, or tool for your dog’s current stage.

  • A properly fitted slip collar is required anytime your dog is in TAC care.

  • Slip collars are included with Train & Stay programs.
    Ongoing clients who do not already have a slip collar will need to obtain one before future services. Slip collars may be purchased from me ($30) or sourced elsewhere, but they must meet my safety and fit requirements.

  • Replacement equipment must be purchased. Loaning is not available.

  • Depending on the dog and training stage, tools may include slip collars, prong collars, long lines, muzzles, or e-collars.

  • No. Tools are selected based on the individual dog, their needs, and their training stage. Not every dog requires the same tools, and any tool used is discussed in advance and introduced intentionally.

Payments & Admin

  • Cash, check, Zelle, debit, or credit card.

  • Yes. Courtesy pricing adjustments are available for direct payment methods.

    • Lessons and programs: at booking

    • Train & Stay / Stays: payment required to reserve dates

  • No. Payments are non-refundable. One-time transfers may be allowed if availability permits.

  • Your scheduled dates, your dog’s space in a limited-capacity program, and the time reserved exclusively for your dog.

What to Bring/Not Bring

  • Food, treats, leash, medication, and all equipment your dog normally uses.

  • Bowls, extra bedding, e-collar chargers, packaging, or bulky items.