In consideration of participation in private and/or group dog training lessons, classes, and related services (collectively, “Training”), the undersigned student (“Student”) agrees to the following terms. Training may include, without limitation, obedience, agility, behavior modification, socialization, group classes, and private lessons.


  1. Assumption of Risk
     Student understands and acknowledges that dogs can behave unpredictably and that the risk of injury or damage exists even with well-trained dogs. Risks include but are not limited to bites, scratches, falls, collisions, communicable illnesses, property damage, and/or death involving dogs or people. Training may involve off-leash social interaction and exposure to agility structures or other higher-risk activities. Students voluntarily participate in Training and assume all risks, known and unknown, inherent or incidental to Training activities.


  1. Release & Waiver
     Student releases, waives, and forever discharges Mystic Tree Consulting, LLC d/b/a Mystic Paws Academy, its owners, trainers, independent contractors, employees, volunteers, and affiliates (collectively, “Released Parties”) from all claims, actions, demands, damages, costs, or expenses for injury, illness, death, or property damage that may occur before, during, or after Training, including those allegedly caused in whole or in part by the negligence of the Released Parties. This waiver does not apply to willful and wanton conduct to the extent such a waiver is prohibited by Illinois law.


  1. Risks from Other Dogs and Participants
     Student acknowledges and agrees that risks may arise from the actions or omissions of other participants or their dogs. Student voluntarily waives and releases any claims against the Released Parties for injuries or damage caused by other participants or their dogs.


  1. Indemnification
     Student agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Released Parties from and against any and all claims, actions, damages, liabilities, and expenses (including reasonable attorney’s fees) arising out of or related to: (a) Student’s acts or omissions; (b) Student’s dog(s)’ actions; or (c) Student’s failure to comply with any rule, instruction, or representation in this Agreement, even if any such claim is alleged to be caused in part by the negligence of the Released Parties.


  1. Student Responsibilities
     Student is solely responsible for the supervision and safety of Student’s dog(s), family, and guests. Students agree to follow all safety rules and trainer instructions, and to work with their dog daily as recommended by Mystic Paws Academy to reinforce training progress. A parent or legal guardian must directly supervise children under 18 at all times.


  1. Health & Vaccinations
     Student represents that Student’s dog(s) is/are currently healthy, free from contagious conditions, and up to date on Illinois-required rabies vaccination and other core vaccinations as recommended by the dog’s veterinarian (e.g., DAPP). Bordetella vaccination may be required for group settings, daycare, or boarding. Students agree to provide proof of vaccinations upon request. Failure to provide proof may result in denial of participation.


  1. Behavioral Disclosure
     Student must disclose any known behavioral issues, including prior bites, aggression toward dogs or people, severe fear/anxiety, or resource guarding. Failure to disclose may result in immediate removal from Training without refund and will render the Student solely responsible for any resulting injury, damage, or claim.


  1. Photo/Media Release
     Student grants the Released Parties permission to record, photograph, and otherwise capture Student and Student’s dog(s), and to use such name, image, likeness, and voice in any media for promotional or educational purposes without compensation or further consent. 


  1. Emergency Medical/Veterinary Authorization
     If Student or Student’s dog(s) requires urgent medical or veterinary care and Student is unavailable, Student authorizes the Released Parties to seek treatment at Student’s expense. Students agree to reimburse all related costs.


  1. Refusal/Termination of Services
     Mystic Paws Academy may refuse or discontinue services at any time for any reason, including safety concerns, aggressive behavior, failure to follow rules, or bullying/harassment. Any refund for unused services is at the sole discretion of Mystic Paws Academy.


  1. Governing Law & Venue
     This Agreement is governed by the laws of the State of Illinois. The exclusive venue for any dispute shall be the state courts located in McHenry County, Illinois.


  1. Severability; Entire Agreement
     If any provision is found unenforceable, the remainder shall continue in full force and effect. This Agreement constitutes the entire understanding between the parties regarding its subject matter and supersedes all prior discussions or writings. No modification is valid unless in writing and signed by Mystic Paws Academy.

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