Wags and Whiskers Academy
Animal Welfare Policy
Wags and Whiskers Academy
1. Our Commitment to Animal Welfare
At Wags and Whiskers Academy, the welfare, safety, and wellbeing of all dogs involved in training is our highest priority. We are fully committed to maintaining the highest standards of animal care and ethical practice throughout all training activities.
All dogs are treated with kindness, patience, dignity, and respect at all times. Training is never carried out at the expense of a dog’s physical or emotional wellbeing.
2. Welfare-First Approach
We operate a welfare-first approach, meaning the needs of the dog will always take priority over training objectives. No dog will be forced to complete a groom or training exercise if doing so would cause distress, discomfort, or harm.
Not all dogs are suitable for a training environment. Decisions made by instructors in the best interest of a dog’s welfare are final.
3. Ethical Handling & Grooming
Dogs must be handled calmly and appropriately, using grooming techniques suitable for their breed, coat type, age, health, and temperament.
The following are strictly prohibited:
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Rough handling or restraint
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Forceful or aggressive behaviour
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Intimidation or punishment
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Continuing grooming when a dog is distressed or unwell
Students must follow all instructions given by instructors regarding safe and humane handling at all times.
4. Supervision & Monitoring
All practical grooming sessions are closely supervised by qualified and experienced instructors. Dogs are continuously monitored for signs of stress, fatigue, anxiety, or discomfort.
Training sessions may be paused or stopped immediately if a dog shows signs that continuing would compromise their welfare.
5. Student Responsibility
Students are responsible for:
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Following all animal handling and welfare guidance
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Treating every dog with care and respect
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Reporting any concerns immediately to an instructor
Any student who demonstrates unsafe, inappropriate, or negligent behaviour towards a dog will be removed from practical training.
6. Zero Tolerance Policy
Wags and Whiskers Academy operates a zero-tolerance policy towards animal mistreatment.
Any form of cruelty, neglect, or deliberate harm — whether physical or emotional — will result in immediate dismissal from the course with no refund.
7. Health, Safety & Hygiene
High standards of cleanliness and hygiene are maintained to protect the health of all dogs. Equipment is cleaned and maintained regularly, and safe working practices are followed at all times.
Dogs showing signs of illness, injury, or extreme stress will not be groomed.
8. Continuous Review
This Animal Welfare Policy is regularly reviewed to ensure best practice is maintained in line with current industry standards and animal welfare guidance.
9. Reporting Concerns
Any concerns relating to animal welfare should be reported immediately to Wags and Whiskers Academy staff. All concerns are taken seriously and addressed promptly.
