Handler responsibility
Handlers remain responsible for their dog at all times and must follow organiser and trainer instructions.
Training and safety
Clear rules make training safer and better for everyone.
These practical rules support respectful training, safer dog handling, and fair decision-making at association activities.
Honest safety disclosure
Members must disclose reactivity, bite history, fear, illness, injury, medication, heat sensitivity or handling concerns before training.
Equipment
Use suitable equipment for the dog and environment. Long lines, harnesses, leads, rewards, water and weather gear may be required depending on the session.
Dog spacing
Keep appropriate distance from other dogs and people unless a trainer gives clear instruction. Do not allow uncontrolled greetings.
Public spaces
Respect the public, landowners, vehicles, livestock, wildlife, tracks, parks and local rules. Leave locations clean and safe.
Incident reporting
Any injury, bite, near miss, lost dog, public complaint or safety concern must be reported to organisers as soon as possible.
Respectful conduct
Members must treat handlers, trainers, volunteers and the public with respect. Bullying, harassment or abusive behaviour is not acceptable.
Right to pause participation
Organisers may pause or refuse participation if a dog, handler, weather condition, location or situation creates an unacceptable risk.
Training limits
Training is recreational and educational. It is not a guarantee of operational search capability, certification, emergency response readiness or professional status.
Safety culture
We would rather slow down than ignore risk.
A strong community is built by being honest early, adjusting sessions where needed, and supporting dogs and people without shame.
Apply with safety notesCommittee review
Safety information is collected so training can be planned responsibly. It is not there to embarrass anyone, it helps protect dogs, handlers, volunteers and the public.