Online Coaching Terms & Conditions

Karen's Online Coaching Terms & Conditions

Version 1.0, October 2026

1. About these terms

These terms apply to the Online Coaching programme provided by Karen Maher, trading as Maher & Hound (“I”, “me”). By ticking the acceptance box when you book and paying, you (“the client”) agree to them. Please read them carefully.

2. The programme

The programme runs for 8 weeks from the date of your first session.

It includes 4 x 30-minute 1-2-1 Zoom sessions (one every two weeks), an individually tailored training plan, and WhatsApp support (messages, voice notes and video feedback) as set out in section 4.

Sessions and support not used within the 8 weeks expire. They aren’t refunded or carried over unless I agree otherwise in writing.

Support after the 8 weeks is a separate booking.

3. No guaranteed outcome

I’ll provide the programme with reasonable care and skill. However, behaviour and training depend on many things outside my control, including your dog’s health, genetics, history and environment, and how consistently the plan is followed between sessions. I can’t guarantee a particular result or timescale.

4. Support and working hours

I work Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 6pm (UK time). This includes WhatsApp support. I don’t reply at weekends or on bank holidays. Messages sent outside these hours are answered on the next working day.

You can send up to 3 videos a day for review, each a maximum of 90 seconds unless I ask for something longer. Each must be relevant to what we’re currently working on.

I provide one feedback loop per client per day. Please keep voice notes and messages brief and on topic, and don’t save up several days’ worth to send at once.

You don’t need to check in every day, but results are better with at least 2 to 3 check-ins a week.

If I take leave during your programme, I’ll tell you in advance and extend your end date to match.

5. Your responsibilities

Give full and accurate information in your questionnaire, including health and any bite history. Return it at least 3 days before your first session.

Many behaviour problems have a medical or pain-related cause. Please tell me about any health issues. If I believe pain or a medical issue may be involved, I may recommend a vet check and pause the programme until it’s done. Your end date pauses too, for up to 4 weeks.

Follow the training plan, the equipment guidance and any safety advice I give, such as management or muzzle training.

You’re responsible for your dog’s conduct and safety at all times, including during sessions, while carrying out the plan and in public places.

You agree not to use aversive equipment or methods while we work together. This includes e-collars, prong collars, slip leads used for correction and physical punishment.

6. My methods

All the methods I use for training and behaviour modification are based on scientific study and learning theory, as well as my years of experience with all types of breeds and issues. No aversive, punishing or oppressive methods are used in any training or behaviour plan or session. I’m an accredited IMDT behaviourist and abide by the IMDT Code of Ethics.

7. Price and payment

The programme costs £399 including VAT, paid in full at booking by card via Stripe.

Your place and session dates are confirmed once you’ve paid and accepted these terms.

I may change my prices, but a change never affects a programme you’ve already booked.

8. Cancellations, missed sessions and refunds

Your 14-day right to cancel. As a consumer buying online, you can cancel within 14 days of booking. By booking, you ask me to start the programme within those 14 days. If you cancel in that period, I’ll refund the price minus a fair amount for the sessions, plan and support already provided. You lose this right once the programme has been fully provided.

After 14 days. Refunds aren’t given for unused sessions or support, a change of mind or deciding not to continue. The only exceptions are where the law requires one, or exceptional circumstances at my discretion.

Rescheduling. Please give at least 48 hours’ notice by email or WhatsApp to move a session. It must be rearranged within your 8 weeks. With less notice, or if you don’t attend, the session counts as used.

Lateness. Sessions end at their scheduled time. If you’re more than 10 minutes late without letting me know, the session may be treated as missed.

If I cancel. If I have to cancel a session, I’ll rearrange it at no cost and extend your end date if needed.

9. Ending the programme early

I may end the programme straight away if:

  • you’re abusive, threatening or harassing towards me, by any channel
  • you use aversive methods (section 5)
  • you repeatedly ignore safety advice
  • your dog’s needs are beyond what online coaching can safely provide, for example where an in-person or veterinary behaviourist referral is needed.

If I end it because of your dog’s needs, I’ll refund the unused part of the programme pro rata. If I end it because of your conduct, no refund is due for the remaining period.

10. If you’re unhappy

Please tell me in writing at Karen@maherandhounddogtraining.com first, so I have the chance to put things right. I’ll reply within 5 working days. You agree to raise any concern with me before contacting your bank or card provider. This doesn’t affect your legal rights.

11. Sessions, materials and content

Sessions aren’t recorded unless we both agree beforehand.

My training plans, videos, voice notes, handouts and all Bonzo’s Happy Gundog Club content are my copyright and for your personal use only. You must not share them with anyone else, or copy, re-film, recreate or post them (or content based on them) on any website or social media platform, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube, without my written permission.

I’ll only use your videos, photos or comments publicly with your permission.

12. Confidentiality and data

I’ve worked, and continue to work, with some high-profile clients, so I understand how important discretion is. Everything we discuss stays confidential. I hold your details and your dog’s records in line with UK GDPR and my privacy notice. I keep them for 6 years for insurance purposes.

13. Insurance and liability

I have full Public Liability and Professional Indemnity insurance. Details are available on request.

Nothing in these terms limits liability for death or personal injury caused by negligence, or anything else that can’t be limited by law.

Otherwise, my total liability is limited to the price paid for the programme. I’m not liable for loss or damage caused by your dog, or for outcomes resulting from advice not being followed.

14. Governing law and international clients

These terms and all my work are governed by English law, and the courts of England and Wales have jurisdiction. My Professional Indemnity cover is worldwide, including the USA and Canada, but only on that basis. If you’re based outside the UK, accepting these terms means accepting English law and UK courts. If you don’t accept that, I’m unable to work with you.

15. Changes to these terms

The version in force when you book applies to your programme. Version 1.0, October 2026.

Acceptance

You accept these terms by ticking “I have read and agree to the Terms & Conditions” on the booking form when you book and pay. Your acceptance is saved with your booking.

‘Most Patient Dog Behaviourist’ in the South East 2022  ‘Dog Trainer of the Year’ Hampshire 2021/22

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