Terms & Conditions
Last updated: March 2026
1. Acceptance of Terms
By registering for training services, attending sessions, or using the Great Southern Dog Training website, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not use our services or website.
2. Services Description
Great Southern Dog Training provides professional dog training services including obedience training, behaviour modification, puppy training, reactive dog training, and specialised Programs. All training is conducted by Darren Scahill, a qualified dog trainer with over 30 years of experience.
Training methods use positive reinforcement, clear communication, and appropriate structure tailored to each dog's individual needs, temperament, and history.
3. Registration and Payment
To register for training services, you must complete our registration form with accurate information about yourself and your dog. Payment is required in full at the time of booking or as agreed prior to your first session.
We accept payment via bank transfer or cash. Payment confirmation will be provided upon completion. Invoices are available upon request.
4. Session Scheduling and Attendance
Sessions are scheduled based on availability. Once confirmed, you agree to attend at the agreed date and time. Please arrive 5–10 minutes early to allow time for preparation.
For in-person sessions, please bring your dog on a secure lead, appropriate treats, and any necessary vaccination documentation if requested.
5. Cancellation Policy
Cancellations must be made at least 48 hours in advance by contacting Darren directly at 0429 008 000 or [email protected].
- Cancellations with 48+ hours notice: Full refund or reschedule without penalty
- Cancellations with less than 48 hours notice: Session fee forfeited
- No-shows (sessions missed without notice): Full session fee charged
Inclement weather (severe storms, extreme heat) may result in session postponement. We will contact you to reschedule at the earliest opportunity.
6. programme Structure and Duration
The duration of training Programs varies based on the dog's starting level, behaviour issues, and training goals. Darren will provide an honest assessment and realistic timeline during your initial consultation.
Some Programs are completed in a single session (e.g., Leash Manners), whilst others require multiple sessions over weeks or months. Progress depends on the dog's individual response and owner commitment between sessions.
7. Client Responsibilities
As a client, you agree to:
- Follow the training guidance and home practice recommendations provided by Darren
- Maintain consistent handling and communication with your dog
- Supervise your dog safely at all times
- Provide accurate information about your dog's history, behaviour, and any medical conditions
- Not make sudden changes to your dog's routine or training approach without consulting Darren
- Be honest about your dog's progress and any concerns that arise
Training success depends primarily on consistent client follow-through between sessions. Limited or inconsistent practice will reduce results and extend the timeline.
8. Training Methods and Philosophy
Darren uses positive reinforcement, clear communication, and structured training tailored to the individual dog. The specific tools and techniques used are determined by each dog's needs, history, and temperament.
If you have concerns about training methods at any stage, please discuss them directly with Darren immediately.
9. Results and Outcomes
No guarantee is made regarding specific outcomes or timelines. Dog training is a process that depends on many variables, including:
- The dog's age, breed, history, and temperament
- The consistency of owner follow-through between sessions
- The severity and duration of the behaviour issue
- Environmental factors and life changes
Training progress is assessed during sessions, and recommendations are adjusted based on the dog's response. Darren will provide honest feedback about what is achievable and realistic timeframes.
10. Safety and Liability
By engaging in training services, you acknowledge that:
- Dog training involves inherent risks, including potential injury or aggravation of existing behaviour issues
- Your dog may interact with other dogs, equipment, and environments during group training
- You assume all risk and responsibility for your dog's wellbeing during and after training
- You are responsible for secure containment and supervision of your dog at all times
Darren exercises reasonable care and professional expertise, but cannot be held liable for injuries, escapes, or incidents involving your dog that result from your dog's individual temperament, pre-existing conditions, or circumstances beyond Darren's control.
11. Health and Medical Conditions
You must disclose any known health conditions, injuries, or medications affecting your dog prior to training. If your dog has underlying medical conditions, injuries, or is recovering from surgery, obtain veterinary clearance before starting training.
Training may need to be modified or postponed if your dog is ill, injured, or in pain. If you suspect your dog is unwell, contact your veterinarian before attending a session.
12. Behaviour Assessments and Limitations
Darren reserves the right to refuse training or discontinue services if:
- A dog displays signs of serious aggression or poses a safety risk
- A behaviour issue is beyond the scope of training (e.g., requires veterinary or behaviourist intervention)
- An owner is unwilling or unable to follow training recommendations
- Medical or behavioural concerns require professional evaluation
In such cases, Darren will provide honest feedback and referrals to appropriate professionals where necessary.
13. Recording and Photography
Sessions may be recorded or photographed for training documentation and assessment purposes. Video or photos may be used in client follow-up materials or as examples in educational contexts, with your permission.
If you prefer sessions not to be recorded, please notify Darren at the time of booking.
14. Intellectual Property
All training materials, videos, guides, and written content created by Great Southern Dog Training remain the intellectual property of Darren Scahill. You may use these materials for your personal training with your dog, but may not copy, distribute, or reproduce them without written permission.
15. Website Use
You agree to use this website only for lawful purposes and in a way that does not infringe upon the rights of others or restrict their use and enjoyment of the website. Prohibited behaviour includes:
- Harassing or causing distress or inconvenience
- Obscene or abusive messages
- Deliberate interruption of normal website flow
- Inserting malicious code or viruses
16. Limitation of Liability
Great Southern Dog Training and Darren Scahill will not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, or consequential damages arising from your use of training services or this website, including loss of profits, loss of data, or business interruption, even if advised of the possibility of such damages.
Your sole remedy for dissatisfaction with services is to discontinue using them. This does not exclude liability for death or personal injury caused by negligence.
17. Dispute Resolution
Any disputes arising from these Terms of Service or training services shall be resolved through direct communication between you and Darren. If resolution cannot be reached, disputes may be escalated to mediation or legal proceedings in Western Australia according to Australian law.
18. Changes to Terms
Great Southern Dog Training reserves the right to modify these Terms of Service at any time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated "Last Modified" date. Your continued use of services constitutes acceptance of any modifications.
19. Contact Us
If you have questions about these Terms & Conditions, please contact us: