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Privacy Policy

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Vanguard Canine Academy

Last updated: [insert date]

1. Introduction

Vanguard Canine Academy (“we”, “us”, or “our”) is committed to protecting the privacy and personal information of our clients, visitors, students, and volunteers. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, store, and protect personal information in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) of South Africa.

By using our services, website, or communicating with us, you consent to the collection and use of your information as described in this policy.

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2. Who We Are

Business Name: Vanguard Canine Academy
Location: Benoni, South Africa
Phone: 060 915 0925
Email: [work email to be inserted]

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3. Information We Collect

We may collect the following types of personal information:

Client Information

  • Full name and surname

  • Identity number

  • Phone number

  • Email address

  • Physical address

  • Emergency contact details

Dog Information

  • Dog name, breed, age, and gender

  • Medical information and vaccination records

  • Behavioural history and training notes

  • Vet contact details

Financial Information

  • Payment records

  • Invoices and receipts

  • Transaction references (we do not store full card numbers)

Media

  • Photos and videos of dogs and training sessions

  • CCTV footage 

Minors

Where applicable:

  • Child’s name and age

  • Parent/guardian contact details

  • Medical or safety information relevant to participation

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4. How We Collect Information

We collect information through:

  • Website forms and enquiries

  • WhatsApp communication

  • Email communication

  • In-person consultations and intake forms

  • Online payments

  • Contracts and training agreements

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5. Why We Collect Information

We collect personal information for the following purposes:

  • Providing dog training, boarding, and related services

  • Managing bookings and client accounts

  • Emergency contact and veterinary care

  • Billing and payment processing

  • Internal record keeping

  • Marketing and social media (with consent)

  • Student and volunteer programme administration

  • Legal and regulatory compliance

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6. Sharing of Information

We may share information with trusted third parties, including:

  • Veterinarians (in emergencies or with consent)

  • Payment processors (e.g. PayFast, PayPal, SnapScan)

  • Accountants or bookkeepers

  • Student trainers or staff (only as required)

  • Legal or regulatory authorities if required by law

We do not sell personal information to third parties.

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7. Photos and Videos

We may take photos or videos of dogs during training for:

  • Progress reports

  • Marketing and social media

  • Educational content

Clients may opt out of marketing use by notifying us in writing.

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8. Minors’ Information

Where we collect information relating to children:

  • Parental or guardian consent is required

  • Data is used only for safety, participation, and administration

  • We take extra care to protect minors’ personal information

  • No marketing content involving minors is published without written consent

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9. Data Security

We take reasonable technical and organisational measures to protect personal information, including:

  • Secure storage of physical documents

  • Password-protected digital systems

  • Limited access to authorised staff only

  • Secure payment platforms

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10. Data Retention

We retain personal information only for as long as:

  • It is necessary to provide services

  • Required by law

  • Reasonably needed for business records

Information may be securely deleted or anonymised once no longer required.

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11. Your Rights Under POPIA

You have the right to:

  • Request access to your personal information

  • Request correction or deletion

  • Withdraw consent for marketing

  • Object to processing in certain circumstances

  • Lodge a complaint with the Information Regulator of South Africa

Requests can be made via our contact details above.

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12. Cookies and Website Data

Our website may use cookies to:

  • Improve user experience

  • Track basic analytics

  • Remember preferences

Users can disable cookies via their browser settings.

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13. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. The latest version will always be available on our website or upon request.

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14. Legal Disclaimer

This Privacy Policy is provided for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Vanguard Canine Academy recommends consulting a qualified legal professional to ensure full compliance with applicable laws.

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