Dog Walking Academy
Policies & FAQ
Dog Walking Academy Course Policies
Cancellations & Refunds
To afford to keep classes at an effective size for learning we do not provide refunds for courses, so please plan carefully. Cancellations two weeks prior to a course are credited towards future events. Cancellations within two weeks of an event are not credited. No-shows are not credited. Should an event be cancelled for any reason all registrants will receive full refunds.
Student requirements
The Dog Walking Academy is a professional course for adult students 18 and over.
Dog walking is a skilled profession that by its nature carries risk of physical harm to dogs, dog professionals, and the public, as well as liability risk for dog walkers and their clients. Students must be physically, emotionally, and intellectually capable of safely handling dogs in public spaces, including taking proactive and evasive action to avoid incidents and emergencies, and responding to emergencies quickly and effectively.
Certificate policy
To achieve the dogbiz Certificate in Dog Walking, students must:
- Demonstrate competency handling dogs using only positive techniques (via the guided field trip)
- Pass a take-home written exam (in-person class) or series of online quizzes (online class)
- Attend all portions of the program
Receiving a completed certificate is not guaranteed. Refunds will not be made for failure to satisfy certificate requirements.
Program attendance and completion
Because of the serious nature of this work—taking others’ beloved four-legged family members into public spaces– we require full attendance of all portions of class in order to complete your certificate process.
In-Person Course Policy: Students who miss any portion of class for any reason will be required to return on a subsequent class date to make up the missed portion in order to complete their certificate. A $70 make up charge applies. Please note that we do not guarantee when or if another course will be available. To avoid this additional expense and delays to your certificate, as well as out of respect for instructors and fellow students, please schedule your commute and travel arrangements to leave you plenty of time to be on time and to stay for the full scheduled hours each day.
A special note on first aid certification attendance: Due to the policies of the companies providing first aid certification, if you miss a portion of the first aid section of class you will be required to make up the entire four-hour first aid section on a subsequent date.
Online Course Policy: Students who miss any portion of the live class for any reason will be required to return on a subsequent class date to make up the missed portion in order to complete their certificate. A $70 make up charge applies. Please note that we do not guarantee when or if another course will be available. To avoid this additional expense and delays to your certificate, please be sure to free your course days of all other obligations and distractions to leave you plenty of time to be on time and focused for the full scheduled hours each day.
General Dog Walking Academy FAQ
What is the minimum age to attend the DWA?
You must be at least 18 years old to attend the Dog Walking Academy.
Are there payment plans available for the DWA?
Yes, we’re happy to arrange a payment plan for you. To do so, reach out to our office at [email protected]. Payment plans are interest-free. Your tuition must be fully paid two weeks prior to the start date of your course.
What if I don’t “pass” the field trip?
First, note that this is rare. Our course is designed to set you up for success and our instructors are skilled at creating a supportive, effective learning experience.
If you’ve taken the in-person class and need to repeat the field trip you have two options: You can join the field trip of a subsequent section of the class, or submit unedited video footage of you walking dogs that addresses whatever issue arose during the field trip.
If you’ve taken the online course you may arrange a second field trip. Please note there will be an additional charge of $150 to cover your Field Trip Coach’s time.
Is this course for experienced dog walkers or beginners?
Both. Our curriculum is designed to honor what you already know while advancing your professional knowledge and skills.
Online Dog Walking Academy FAQ
How long will it take to complete the online course?
That’s up to you. It can be finished in as few as 3-4 dedicated days. You will have access to the course for 6 months.
How do you choose field trip coaches?
Our Field Trip Coaches are chosen for their professional dog training and dog walking credentials and experience, as well as their instructional skill and supportive approach to guiding students.
Where will I meet up with my field trip coach?
We’ll choose an appropriate location in your area for the type of walking you do or plan to do—whether that’s a park, neighborhood, or trail.
What is a passing grade on the online quizzes?
Because there is no question on the quizzes that you wouldn’t want your own dog walker to know, we require 100% to pass. But don’t worry: You are welcomed and encouraged to use your notes and you’ll have a chance to revisit and rework any questions you don’t initially pass. We want you to get them all right—for yourself, your clients, and the dogs!
What are the tech requirements for the online DWA?
You’ll need a computer or tablet and a reliable internet connection.
San Francisco Dog Walking Academy FAQ
Can I bring my own dog to class?
No. Student dogs will not be allowed in class. Your instructor will bring dogs who have been pre-screened for their comfort and safety working in a group environment.
What is a passing grade on the written exam for the in-person class?
Because there is no question on the written exam that you wouldn’t want your own dog walker to know, we require 100% to pass. But don’t worry: The exam is designed to provide an opportunity to solidify what you’ve learned by reviewing and applying it. That means open-book and open-course binder. And you’ll have a chance to revisit and rework any questions you don’t initially pass. We want you to get them all right—for yourself, your clients, and the dogs!
