Fine Print
A note from Owner/Trainer Mike Deathe:
We want to make sure you—the client—and I—the dog trainer—are a good fit! So please take a minute to read all the sections, and really think about the commitment you’re making in terms of consistency and frequency.
Mike Deathe CPDT-KA
Non-Refundable Deposits/Payments, Cancellation/Rescheduling Fees:
- A non-refundable $100 deposit is required before scheduling your training sessions. This deposit is applied to your total, and the remaining balance is due at your first session.
- No refunds are offered once training has been booked. Dog training is a time and financial commitment for both the owner and the trainer.
- Day-of cancellations incur a $60 fee. Any other rescheduling incurs a $40 fee.
- Rescheduling fees are due at the time of cancellation, not when you want to reschedule. If you choose not to pay, you forfeit that session—it won’t affect your other sessions.
- If your trainer needs to reschedule, we’ll add a free in-home session to make it up to you. Fair is fair!
- We do not carry cash for change. All invoices are sent via PayPal (you don’t need a PayPal account to pay).
Technology Requirements
- You must have an email address and be comfortable with electronic communication.
- Clients must complete online forms and access homework via email (Outlook).
- If you’re not comfortable with email, online forms, or video communication, K.I.S.S. Dog Training may not be a good fit.
- We use email and Outlook calendar invites to send notes and homework after each session.
Session Details & Travel
- Sessions are 45 minutes long—ideal for both dogs and owners.
- In-home sessions include 20 miles of travel each way from Shawnee, KS. Additional mileage is charged at $2.00 per mile (e.g., 25 miles = $20 extra per visit).
Behavior History & Complex Cases
- A Behavior History/Complex Case Questionnaire is required for all sessions (including consults and phone calls).
- This form is due within 48 hours of setting your appointment. If not received, your appointment will be released.
- Complex cases are more expensive. Details: Click here
- If your dog has a bite history or is deemed aggressive, you accept full responsibility, civil and legal.
- We recommend involving your veterinarian. You’ll need to forward our notes to them if needed.
Kids and Dogs
- Never leave kids and dogs alone. Most dog/child bite incidents happen due to a lack of supervision.
- If the dog is “for the kids,” it’s really your dog. You must teach your kids after we teach you.
- Unsupervised kids and dogs can lead to tragic outcomes, including euthanasia.
Lapses in Training
- If more than 12 months pass between sessions, remaining sessions are forfeited with no refund.
- To resume, you must purchase a new package and pay any applicable fees.
Weather Policy
- Outdoor sessions may be rescheduled due to:
- Temps above 90°F or unsafe heat index
- Freezing temps or dangerous wind chill
- Active storms (snow, ice, rain, thunder)
- No rescheduling fee applies for weather-related changes.
Daylight Saving Time
- During months with early darkness, outdoor training (e.g., leash work) may be limited. Plan accordingly.
Doggy Day Care
- Shelter dogs may have unknown histories. Use caution and management.
- Doggy day care can help with energy and social skills (non-aggression cases).
- Be honest with the facilities about your dog’s behavior. You are responsible for any damage caused or received.
Private In-Home Training Sessions
- Sessions are held Monday–Thursday at 9:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m.
- Fridays are reserved for scheduling and communication.
- Phone calls with Mike are ~15 minutes. Longer calls may incur additional charges.
Training Philosophy
- Consistency and frequency are key. Practice daily in short intervals (20–30 minutes, a few times a day).
- Sessions are spaced 2 weeks apart to allow time for practice.
- We provide videos of Mike demonstrating techniques.
- We train owners, not dogs!
- Everyone in the household must be on the same page.
- Your dog’s well-being is your responsibility. Don’t put them in situations they can’t handle.
- Keep your vet informed—forward notes and homework as needed.
Preparedness & Accountability
- If you’re not prepared to move forward (e.g., didn’t do the homework), the session will be stopped and rescheduled. A $60 fee applies.
- Rescheduling fees cover the time and effort of calendar management and lost opportunities for other clients.
- Sessions are first-come, first-served. A deposit is required to reserve a spot.
- If cancellations are frequent before training begins, prepayment of the full package + fees will be required.
Client Communication
- YES—you are responsible for communicating progress between sessions, including sending 30-second videos.
- If this feels like too much, we may not be the right fit.
Can You Be Fired as a Client?
- Yes. If you’re not doing the work or if our personalities don’t mesh, we may end the relationship, for your dog’s benefit.
- We strive to be transparent. Please read the Fine Print, FAQs, and watch our YouTube videos before signing up.
Estimates & Assessments
- We don’t offer free estimates or assessments. Our pricing is transparent and posted online.
- We require an electronic agreement to the Fine Print & FAQs before scheduling.
Final Notes
- A non-refundable deposit is required to schedule.
- You’ll receive:
- A PayPal invoice
- An Adobe signature request for Fine Print & FAQs
- A Behavior History/Complex Case Questionnaire (due within 48 hours)
- We do not use prong, choke, or shock collars.
- We prefer not to use retractable leashes.
- Vaccination documentation is required.
- Photos taken during training may be used for promotional purposes.