Vanguard Canine Academy

Last updated: [28/02/2026]

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1. Introduction

These Terms and Conditions govern all services provided by Vanguard Canine Academy (“we”, “us”, or “our”). By enrolling a dog, attending training, boarding, daycare, student programmes, workshops, or using any of our services, you agree to be bound by these terms.

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2. Services

We provide dog training, behaviour modification, boarding and training, daycare and training, student programmes, workshops, volunteer programmes, and related canine services.

We reserve the right to refuse or terminate services at our discretion if a dog poses a risk to staff, students, other dogs, or the public.

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3. Owner Responsibilities

Owners agree that:

• All information provided is accurate and complete

• Dogs are in good health and fit for training

• Any behavioural issues (including aggression) are disclosed

• Dogs are vaccinated and parasite-controlled as required

• Dogs are treated for fleas and ticks

• Dogs are dewormed regularly

Failure to disclose relevant information may result in immediate termination of services without refund.

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4. Health & Vaccination Requirements

All dogs attending Vanguard Canine Academy must meet the following minimum health requirements:

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Mandatory Vaccinations

Dogs must be vaccinated against:

• Canine Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza (commonly referred to as “5-in-1”)

• Rabies (as required by South African law)

• Bordetella (Kennel Cough)

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Parasite Control

All dogs must:

• Be treated for fleas and ticks using a reputable product

• Be dewormed regularly

Unless otherwise specified by a veterinarian:

• Flea and tick treatments are considered valid for one month

• Deworming is considered valid for three months

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Proof Required

Owners must provide written proof from a veterinarian or vaccination booklet showing:

• Vaccination dates

• Deworming dates

• Flea and tick treatment dates

Vanguard Canine Academy reserves the right to:

• Refuse entry to any dog without valid proof

• Remove a dog showing signs of illness

• Require updated treatments at the owner’s cost

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Illness and Contagion

Owners acknowledge that:

• Dogs showing symptoms of illness may be refused or isolated

• We are not liable for illnesses contracted before or after attendance

• The owner remains responsible for any medical costs arising from their dog

This policy exists to protect other dogs, staff, students, volunteers, and visitors.

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5. Aggression and Risk

Dog training involves inherent risks.

Owners acknowledge that:

• Dogs may bite, scratch, or behave unpredictably

• Interaction with other dogs carries risk

• Training equipment may cause minor injury

Owners accept full responsibility for any damage or injury caused by their dog.

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6. Indemnity and Liability Waiver

Owners agree to indemnify and hold harmless Vanguard Canine Academy, its owners, staff, students, volunteers, and contractors from any claim, loss, injury, damage, or legal action arising from:

• Injury to people or animals

• Loss or death of a dog

• Property damage

• Behavioural incidents

• Acts of students or volunteers

Participation is entirely at the owner’s own risk.

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7. Veterinary Emergencies

In the event of illness or injury:

• We may seek veterinary treatment at the owner’s cost

• We will attempt to contact the owner first where possible

• If unreachable, we may act in the dog’s best interests

Owners authorise Vanguard Canine Academy to obtain emergency veterinary care as necessary.

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8. Student and Volunteer Handling

Owners acknowledge that:

• Student trainers and volunteers may handle dogs under supervision

• This forms part of our training and education model

• While reasonable care is taken, incidents may occur

Owners consent to student involvement and release us from liability.

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9. Minors on Site

Where children participate in programmes:

• They must be dropped off and collected by a responsible adult

• They must follow safety rules at all times

• Vanguard Canine Academy is not responsible for unsupervised minors outside programme hours

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10. Payments and Fees

All fees:

• Must be paid in advance unless agreed otherwise

• Are non-refundable once services commence

• May be subject to package expiry dates

Late or missed payments may result in suspension of services.

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11. Cancellations and No-Shows

• Sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice may be forfeited

• No-shows are charged in full

• Packages must be used within their validity period

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12. Photos and Marketing

We may take photos or videos of dogs for:

• Training records

• Progress reports

• Marketing and social media

Owners may opt out of marketing use in writing.

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13. Behavioural Outcomes

We do not guarantee:

• Specific training results

• Complete behaviour correction

• Elimination of aggression

Results vary based on dog temperament, environment, and owner compliance.

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14. Termination of Services

We may terminate services if:

• A dog poses unreasonable risk

• Owners breach these terms

• Payment obligations are not met

No refunds apply once services begin.

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15. Force Majeure

We are not liable for failure to perform services due to events beyond our control, including but not limited to:

• Natural disasters

• Illness

• Power outages

• Acts of God

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16. Governing Law

These terms are governed by the laws of the Republic of South Africa.

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17. Legal Disclaimer

These Terms and Conditions are provided for general business use and do not constitute legal advice. Clients are encouraged to seek independent legal counsel if required.