Airborne K9 Policy Statements
Airborne K9 Policy
Airborne K9 prioritizes safety through structured dog-to-dog management, individualized exposure, and controlled interactions based on each dog’s training and behavior.
Airborne K9 Policy
Airborne K9 respects client preferences regarding training equipment while maintaining the authority to require appropriate equipment when necessary to safely control and protect the dog, handlers, and public.
Airborne K9 Policy
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Airborne K9 Policy
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Airborne K9 Policy
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Airborne K9 Policy
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Airborne K9 Policy
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Airborne K9 Policy
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Airborne K9 Policy
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Dog to Dog Interactions
Airborne K9 maintains a structured approach to dog-to-dog interactions in order to prioritize the safety and welfare of all dogs in our care.
1. Dog-to-Dog Interaction
Airborne K9 does not permit unsupervised or uncontrolled dog-to-dog interactions for training or boarding clients.
Dogs will not be intentionally introduced to or allowed to interact directly with unfamiliar dogs while in our care.
An exception may be made for dogs from the same household when the owner has provided specific permission for those dogs to interact with one another. Such interactions will remain subject to the professional judgment of Airborne K9 staff and may be restricted or discontinued if circumstances arise that present a safety concern.
2. Housing and Kenneling
Dogs will never be housed in the same kennel enclosure, kennel run, or crate with another dog.
Dogs from the same household are not exempt from this policy. Shared housing will not be permitted solely because dogs are familiar with one another.
Each dog will have its own designated housing space.
3. Training in the Presence of Other Dogs
Airborne K9 believes that dogs should be appropriately conditioned to work and perform obedience behaviors in the presence of other dogs.
Dogs may be trained in proximity to other dogs as part of their training program. This may include working on-leash, working at a controlled distance, or other structured training arrangements appropriate to the individual dog's training level.
4. Off-Leash Training Around Other Dogs
Off-leash training in the presence of other dogs is a privilege that must be earned through demonstrated reliability.
A dog will not be permitted to work off-leash around other dogs until Airborne K9 staff have determined that the dog has demonstrated an appropriate level of:
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Obedience reliability
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Impulse control
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Handler engagement
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Responsiveness to known commands
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Ability to disengage from environmental distractions
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Ability to remain under effective handler control around other dogs
The decision to allow off-leash work around other dogs will be made on an individual basis by Airborne K9 staff.
Even after a dog has demonstrated the necessary skills, off-leash work around other dogs may be discontinued at any time if the dog's behavior, environmental circumstances, or other safety considerations warrant doing so.
5. Individual Assessment
Airborne K9 recognizes that dogs vary significantly in temperament, training history, social behavior, arousal level, and ability to safely interact with other animals.
Accordingly, dog-to-dog exposure and training decisions will be based on the individual dog and the circumstances rather than on a one-size-fits-all approach.
The goal is not to prevent dogs from ever being around other dogs. The goal is to teach dogs to appropriately exist and work around other dogs without requiring direct interaction.
Airborne K9's standard is controlled exposure, appropriate management, and demonstrated reliability—not forced socialization.
E-Collars, Prong Collars, and Other Tools
Airborne K9 utilizes a variety of training equipment, including electronic collars, prong collars, slip leads, flat collars, harnesses, long lines, muzzles, food rewards, toys, and other tools as appropriate for the individual dog and training objective.
Airborne K9 does not consider any training tool inherently good or bad based solely on its type. The safety and appropriateness of a training tool depend on the individual dog, the circumstances in which it is used, the condition and fit of the equipment, and the knowledge and skill of the person using it.
1. Use of Training Tools
Electronic collars, prong collars, and other training tools may be used when determined appropriate by an Airborne K9 trainer. These tools are introduced and utilized systematically, with consideration given to the dog's temperament, training history, physical condition, learning stage, and the specific behavior being addressed.
Training equipment will never be used as a substitute for competent training or appropriate handling. Airborne K9 trainers are responsible for understanding the mechanics, appropriate application, limitations, and potential risks associated with the equipment they use.
Equipment will be properly fitted, regularly inspected, and discontinued or modified when its use is determined to be inappropriate for an individual dog.
2. Client Choice
Airborne K9 respects the right of clients to decline the use of any specific training tool or piece of equipment for their dog.
Clients may communicate their preferences regarding training equipment at any time, and Airborne K9 will make reasonable efforts to accommodate those preferences while continuing to provide effective training within the parameters established by the client.
However, client preferences regarding training equipment do not supersede the need for appropriate safety and physical control of the dog.
3. Safety and Control Equipment
Certain equipment may be required when necessary to safely handle, transport, train, or otherwise maintain physical control of a dog.
For example, a client may decline the use of a particular training collar, but may not decline the use of a leash when a leash is necessary for safe control of the dog.
Similarly, if a client's provided collar is improperly fitted or sufficiently loose that the dog can back or slip out of it, Airborne K9 may require the use of an appropriately fitted slip lead, martingale collar, harness, or other suitable equipment to prevent the dog from escaping.
Safety equipment requirements are based on the individual circumstances of the dog and are not intended to circumvent a client's stated preferences regarding training methodology.
If a client's requested equipment or restrictions prevent Airborne K9 from safely maintaining control of the dog, Airborne K9 may modify the training plan, require alternative equipment, or determine that a particular service cannot be safely provided under the requested conditions.
4. Airborne K9's Standard
Airborne K9's objective is not to promote a particular piece of equipment, but to use appropriate tools for individual dogs while maintaining clear communication, effective learning, and the welfare and safety of the animal, handlers, and the public.
Equipment is a tool. Competence, judgment, appropriate application, and safety determine how that tool is used.
Clients have the right to establish reasonable boundaries regarding training equipment. Airborne K9 retains the responsibility to establish minimum requirements necessary to safely maintain control of the animals entrusted to our care.
Transportation
Airborne K9 may transport client dogs when necessary or appropriate to provide training services, including transportation to and from training locations, the client's home, or other approved locations. Client dogs may also be transported when necessary to obtain emergency or routine veterinary care.
1. Transportation Safety
All client dogs transported by Airborne K9 will be secured inside appropriately sized, crash-rated kennels manufactured by Dakota 283 or Ruff Land.
Dogs will not be transported loose inside a vehicle.
Kennels will be appropriately secured within the vehicle to minimize movement and maintain the safety of the dog and vehicle occupants in the event of sudden braking, a collision, or other unexpected circumstances.
Dogs will be individually housed during transportation unless an exception is specifically determined to be appropriate for dogs from the same household and consistent with Airborne K9's dog-to-dog interaction policy.
2. Driver Safety
All Airborne K9 staff members transporting client dogs are required to obey all applicable traffic laws and operate vehicles in a safe and responsible manner.
Staff members will not engage in distracted driving, including texting or other handheld-device use while operating a vehicle transporting client dogs.
The safety of the dogs, staff members, and other motorists will take priority over convenience or speed of transportation.
3. Transportation During Emergencies
In the event that a client dog requires emergency veterinary care, Airborne K9 may transport the dog to an appropriate veterinary facility when doing so is reasonably necessary and within the scope of the circumstances.
Emergency transportation may occur without prior client approval when immediate veterinary care is reasonably believed to be necessary and delay in obtaining care could place the dog's health or life at risk.
Airborne K9 will make reasonable efforts to notify the owner or emergency contact as soon as practical and will provide relevant information to the veterinary facility regarding the circumstances leading to the transport.
4. Vehicle and Kennel Safety
Airborne K9 will maintain transportation equipment in appropriate working condition. Kennels will be routinely inspected for damage, proper operation, and secure attachment within the vehicle.
Airborne K9 will take reasonable precautions regarding temperature, ventilation, weather conditions, and the individual needs of each dog during transportation.
Transportation of client dogs is treated as an extension of our responsibility for their safety and care. Every reasonable precaution will be taken to transport dogs securely, responsibly, and in compliance with applicable traffic laws.
Emergency Veterinary Care
Airborne K9 prioritizes the health and safety of every dog entrusted to our care. Our policies, procedures, facility design, handling practices, transportation protocols, and staff training are specifically designed to minimize the risk of injury, illness, escape, and other adverse events.
While Airborne K9's safety protocols make the occurrence of serious injury or illness while a dog is in our care very unlikely, no environment involving animals can be completely free of risk. Dogs are living, unpredictable animals, and unexpected events can occur despite appropriate precautions and responsible management.
Our responsibility is therefore not to claim that an incident can never happen, but to take reasonable precautions to minimize foreseeable risks, recognize potential problems promptly, and respond appropriately when they do occur.
1. Recognizing Medical Emergencies
Airborne K9 staff are expected to take seriously any signs that may indicate a medical emergency, including but not limited to:
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Difficulty breathing or respiratory distress
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Uncontrolled bleeding
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Collapse, loss of consciousness, or inability to stand
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Seizures
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Suspected heatstroke or hypothermia
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Significant trauma or injury
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Suspected poisoning or ingestion of a dangerous substance
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Severe allergic reactions
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Repeated vomiting or diarrhea accompanied by signs of significant illness
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Severe pain or distress
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Suspected bloat or gastric dilatation-volvulus
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Any other condition that staff reasonably believe may threaten the dog's life or cause significant harm if veterinary attention is delayed
This list is not exhaustive. Staff are not expected to diagnose medical conditions. When there is reasonable concern that a dog requires urgent veterinary attention, the appropriate response is to seek veterinary care rather than attempt to determine the diagnosis independently.
2. Emergency Veterinary Treatment
When a dog requires emergency veterinary care, Airborne K9 may transport the dog to an appropriate veterinary facility without prior authorization from the owner when waiting for authorization could reasonably place the dog's health or life at risk.
Airborne K9 will make reasonable efforts to contact the dog's owner or designated emergency contact as soon as practical.
When possible, Airborne K9 will provide the veterinary facility with relevant information available to us, including the dog's identity, known medical information, medications, the circumstances surrounding the incident, and the owner's contact information.
3. Owner Notification
Airborne K9 will make reasonable efforts to notify the owner or designated emergency contact as soon as practical following an emergency or once immediate veterinary care has been arranged.
For non-life-threatening medical concerns, Airborne K9 will make reasonable efforts to contact the owner before seeking veterinary care when circumstances allow.
4. Authorization and Veterinary Decisions
Airborne K9 staff will not attempt to diagnose or independently treat medical conditions beyond their training and capabilities.
Veterinary diagnosis, treatment recommendations, procedures, and other medical decisions will be made by the attending veterinary professionals.
Airborne K9 will communicate relevant observations and information to the veterinary team and will follow reasonable veterinary instructions regarding the immediate care of the dog while the dog remains under our supervision.
Financial Responsibility
Unless otherwise agreed upon in writing, the dog's owner is responsible for veterinary expenses incurred on behalf of their dog.
Airborne K9 may seek reimbursement from the owner for emergency veterinary expenses paid by Airborne K9 on the owner's behalf.
5. Emergency Contact Information
Clients are expected to provide accurate and current emergency contact information and relevant medical information for their dogs.
Clients should identify any known medical conditions, medications, allergies, veterinary restrictions, or other information that may be important in an emergency.
Clients are also encouraged to identify a preferred veterinary hospital or emergency veterinary facility. However, Airborne K9 may use an alternative veterinary facility when the preferred facility is unavailable, unable to provide the necessary care, or when circumstances require immediate treatment.
6. Our Commitment to Prevention and Response
Airborne K9 believes that responsible animal care requires both prevention and preparedness.
Our safety protocols are designed to make preventable incidents as unlikely as reasonably possible. At the same time, we recognize that no amount of planning can eliminate every risk associated with caring for animals.
When an unexpected illness, injury, or other emergency occurs, Airborne K9's responsibility is to recognize the situation, respond promptly, obtain appropriate veterinary care when necessary, and communicate with the owner as soon as reasonably possible.
We cannot promise that an emergency will never occur. We can promise that we will take reasonable precautions to prevent foreseeable emergencies and that, when an unexpected emergency does occur, we will take it seriously and act appropriately to protect the health and welfare of the dog.
Escape Prevention
Airborne K9 maintains strict escape-prevention protocols designed to minimize the risk of a dog becoming loose, leaving the property, or gaining access to an unsafe environment. Our goal is to make an escape highly unlikely through multiple layers of physical security, handling procedures, and staff accountability.
1. On-Leash Policy
All dogs on Airborne K9 property must remain on leash at all times unless an Airborne K9 staff member has provided explicit approval for the leash to be removed.
This requirement applies to all client dogs, regardless of their training level, obedience reliability, temperament, or familiarity with the property.
A leash may only be removed when the dog is inside a fully enclosed and appropriately secured area.
Dogs will not be permitted to move between buildings, vehicles, training areas, kennels, or other locations on the property while off leash.
The purpose of this policy is not to restrict training opportunities, but to provide a consistent physical layer of protection against unexpected behavior, equipment failure, distraction, or human error.
2. Controlled Off-Leash Areas
Off-leash work may be conducted when appropriate for the dog's training program and when specifically approved by Airborne K9 staff.
Before removing a leash, staff will verify that the dog is inside an appropriate fully enclosed or fenced area and that the area is secure.
When transitioning a dog out of an enclosed training area, the leash must be secured to the dog before the dog is permitted to exit the enclosure.
3. Two-Door Policy
Airborne K9 maintains a two-door security policy whenever dogs are removed from or returned to a kennel, crate, or other enclosed housing area.
Whenever reasonably possible, there must be two physical barriers between the dog and the outside environmentduring the transition.
For example, when a dog is being removed from a kennel, the kennel door should not open directly into an area that provides immediate access to the outdoors.
If a dog were to unexpectedly slip away from the handler during the transition, the dog should encounter another closed door, gate, or secure barrier rather than having direct access to the outside.
The same principle applies when returning a dog to its kennel or crate.
4. Transition Procedures
Dogs are particularly vulnerable to escape during transitions. Staff are therefore expected to exercise additional caution when:
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Removing a dog from a kennel or crate
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Returning a dog to a kennel or crate
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Moving a dog between buildings
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Loading or unloading a vehicle
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Entering or exiting a fenced training area
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Moving dogs through gates or doorways
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Transferring dogs between handlers
Staff should verify that doors, gates, kennel doors, and other barriers are properly closed and secured before creating an opening through which a dog could escape.
5. Equipment and Collar Security
Before moving a dog, staff should ensure that the dog's collar, harness, leash, and other necessary equipment are appropriately fitted and securely attached.
If equipment is found to be damaged, improperly fitted, or otherwise inadequate to safely maintain control of the dog, the dog will not be moved until appropriate equipment is provided.
Where appropriate, additional safety equipment may be used for dogs with a known history or elevated risk of escaping their primary equipment.
6. Response to a Loose Dog
If a dog becomes loose, staff will immediately implement Airborne K9's loose-dog response procedures.
Staff will prioritize preventing the dog from leaving the property, safely securing the dog, and preventing traffic or other hazards from coming into contact with the dog.
Staff should avoid actions that unnecessarily increase the dog's arousal or cause the dog to flee further.
Any escape or near-escape incident will be documented and evaluated so that appropriate changes can be made to prevent recurrence.
7. Layered Safety
Airborne K9 recognizes that no single safety measure is infallible. Leashes can fail. Doors can be left open. Dogs can behave unexpectedly. People can make mistakes.
For this reason, our escape-prevention system relies on multiple independent layers of protection rather than relying solely on a dog's obedience or a handler's attention.
The objective is not to assume that a dog will never escape. The objective is to ensure that if one layer of protection fails, additional layers are in place to prevent that failure from becoming an actual escape.
Airborne K9's standard is simple: client dogs should never have an unprotected path from their handler to the outside world.
Containment, Crating, and Kenneling
Airborne K9 uses crating and kenneling as important components of safe animal care, management, transportation, training, and daily operations. Our containment practices are designed to provide each dog with a secure, appropriate, and individualized environment while minimizing the risk of injury, escape, illness, or unnecessary stress.
Containment is not intended as a substitute for exercise, training, enrichment, or appropriate human interaction. It is one component of a comprehensive management system used to safely care for dogs in our facility.
1. Individual Housing
Dogs will be housed individually.
Dogs will not share crates, kennel enclosures, or kennel runs with other dogs.
Each dog's housing arrangement will be selected based on the individual dog's size, behavior, temperament, training history, physical condition, and ability to safely remain contained.
2. Appropriate Containment
Airborne K9 may utilize crates, indoor kennels, exercise areas, and other secure containment systems as appropriate.
Containment areas will be appropriately sized and maintained to allow the dog to stand, turn around, lie down, and move normally within the space.
Containment areas will be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition and will be inspected regularly for damage, escape risks, and other safety concerns.
Dogs may be provided with additional containment measures when necessary because of their individual behavior or risk profile.
For example, a dog that climbs, digs, pushes through barriers, destroys kennel doors, or otherwise demonstrates an elevated risk of escape may require additional security measures beyond those necessary for another dog.
3. Crating
Crates may be used for housing, transportation, training, rest, management, and other appropriate purposes.
Dogs will be placed in appropriately sized crates that allow them to maintain normal standing, turning, and resting positions.
Crates will be inspected regularly to ensure that doors, latches, flooring, and other components are functioning properly.
Dogs demonstrating significant distress, escape behavior, destructive behavior, or other concerns while crated will be evaluated individually. Airborne K9 may modify the dog's containment arrangement when necessary to reduce the risk of injury or escape.
4. Kenneling
Kenneling may be used as part of a dog's daily management and training program.
Dogs may spend periods of time in kennels while resting, between training sessions, during facility transitions, or when other forms of management are necessary.
Kenneling schedules will take into consideration the individual dog's training program, exercise needs, age, health, behavior, and tolerance for confinement.
Airborne K9 does not assume that every dog will have identical containment needs. Some dogs may require more frequent breaks, additional exercise, modified housing, increased supervision, or alternative containment arrangements.
5. Kennel Safety and Self-Injury
A dog's ability to remain safely contained will be evaluated on an individual basis.
If a dog demonstrates behavior that creates a significant risk of self-injury while confined—including repeated attempts to climb, chew, dig, break through barriers, or otherwise escape—Airborne K9 will modify the dog's containment plan when reasonably possible.
This may include changing the type of enclosure, adding appropriate barriers or security measures, increasing supervision, modifying the dog's schedule, or utilizing an alternative containment arrangement.
A containment system is not considered successful simply because it keeps the dog contained. It must also contain the dog without creating an unreasonable risk of injury.
6. Environmental Conditions
Airborne K9 will take reasonable precautions to maintain appropriate environmental conditions in areas where dogs are housed.
This includes consideration of:
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Temperature
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Ventilation
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Weather conditions
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Shade and shelter
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Access to water
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Cleanliness and sanitation
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Flooring and footing
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Potential hazards within the containment area
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The individual dog's physical and behavioral needs
Dogs may be moved to alternative containment areas when environmental conditions or other circumstances make their current location inappropriate.
7. Containment and Exercise
Containment is not intended to eliminate a dog's need for exercise, training, enrichment, or appropriate human interaction.
Dogs will be provided opportunities for appropriate exercise, training, and engagement consistent with the services being provided and the dog's individual needs.
The amount and type of activity provided may vary based on the dog's age, physical condition, training program, behavior, weather, and other relevant circumstances.
8. Inspection and Staff Responsibility
Staff are responsible for ensuring that dogs are appropriately contained and that containment equipment is functioning properly.
Before placing a dog into a crate or kennel, staff should verify that:
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The enclosure is appropriate for the dog.
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The door and locking mechanism are functioning properly.
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The enclosure is free of obvious hazards.
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The dog has appropriate access to water when required.
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The surrounding area is secure.
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There is no obvious pathway through which the dog could escape.
Staff should also verify the security of containment when removing dogs from and returning dogs to their housing areas.
9. Individualized Containment Plans
Airborne K9 recognizes that dogs differ significantly in their ability to tolerate confinement.
A dog that is calm and comfortable in a crate may require a very different management plan from a dog that becomes highly distressed or attempts to injure itself when confined.
Accordingly, Airborne K9 may establish individualized containment protocols when a dog's behavior, physical condition, or history warrants additional precautions.
If Airborne K9 determines that a dog's containment needs cannot be safely accommodated within the available facilities or services, we may modify the service provided or determine that we cannot safely accept or continue caring for that dog.
10. Layered Safety
Airborne K9's containment practices are designed around the principle that no single piece of equipment or containment method should be relied upon as the sole safeguard against an incident.
Dogs can behave unpredictably. Equipment can fail. Doors can be left unsecured. Some dogs are exceptionally skilled at escaping.
Our goal is therefore to combine appropriate equipment, individualized assessment, staff procedures, supervision, and environmental management to minimize risk.
Airborne K9 recognizes that responsible containment is not simply about keeping a dog inside an enclosure. It is about providing a secure environment that appropriately balances safety, welfare, management, and the individual needs of the dog.
Bite Prevention and Bite Procedures
Airborne K9 takes the prevention of dog bites seriously. Because our staff routinely handle dogs during training, kenneling, transportation, and other care activities, we have an obligation to evaluate each dog's behavior and establish whether the dog can be safely handled within our environment.
No dog will be accepted for boarding unless Airborne K9 has reasonably determined that the dog can be safely handled or appropriately managed throughout its stay without presenting an unacceptable risk of successfully biting staff.
Airborne K9 recognizes that dogs may exhibit defensive, fearful, frustrated, or otherwise reactive behaviors without necessarily presenting an actual bite risk. Our assessment therefore focuses on the dog's demonstrated behavior, the circumstances in which the behavior occurs, and our ability to safely manage the dog.
1. Initial Assessment
During the initial consultation, Airborne K9 will gather information regarding the dog's behavioral history, including any known history of:
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Bites or attempted bites
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Aggression toward people
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Handling sensitivity
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Resource guarding
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Fear or anxiety associated with handling
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Aggression related to kenneling or confinement
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Aggression when being removed from a crate or kennel
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Veterinary handling difficulties
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Escape behavior
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Other behaviors that could create a safety concern for staff
Clients are expected to provide complete and accurate information regarding their dog's behavioral history.
A history of aggression or biting does not automatically mean a dog cannot receive services. However, Airborne K9 must be able to establish that the dog can be safely managed within the specific environment and circumstances of the service being provided.
2. Dogs Identified as Potential Bite Risks
If a dog is identified during the initial consultation as presenting a potential bite risk, the dog will not automatically be approved for boarding.
Instead, the client may be required to participate in a series of acclimation and assessment sessions before boarding is permitted.
The purpose of these sessions is to determine whether the dog can safely transition into the Airborne K9 environment and whether our staff can safely perform the routine handling procedures that will be necessary during the dog's stay.
3. Acclimation and Handling Process
The acclimation process will be individualized based on the dog's behavior and demonstrated progress. It may include the following stages:
Stage 1: Owner Handling
The owner will demonstrate placing the dog into and removing the dog from Airborne K9's crates or kennels.
This allows Airborne K9 staff to observe the dog's behavior during the transition and identify any concerns associated with confinement or handling.
Stage 2: Staff Handling With Owner Present
Airborne K9 training staff will attempt to place the dog into the kennel and remove the dog from the kennel while the owner remains present.
The purpose of this stage is to determine whether the dog will allow Airborne K9 staff to safely perform the handling procedures required during boarding.
Stage 3: Staff Handling Without Owner Present
If the dog successfully progresses through the previous stage, Airborne K9 staff will perform the same kennel placement and removal procedures while the owner is no longer directly present.
This allows staff to determine whether the dog's behavior changes when the owner is not available to influence or assist with the interaction.
Stage 4: Short Separation Period
If appropriate, the dog will progress to a session during which the owner leaves the facility for a limited period of time, initially for a slightly extended period and potentially for up to approximately two hours.
During this period, Airborne K9 staff will continue to handle the dog, including removing the dog from its kennel and returning the dog to its kennel as would occur during a normal boarding stay.
The owner may leave the property during this period but must remain local, keep their phone on, remain available to receive communications, and be capable of returning promptly if Airborne K9 determines that their presence is necessary.
Stage 5: Trial Overnight Stay
When Airborne K9 determines that additional assessment is necessary, staff may require a trial overnight stay before approving the dog for regular boarding.
During a trial stay, the dog will be boarded under normal Airborne K9 procedures while staff evaluate the dog's ability to safely navigate the boarding environment.
During the trial stay, the owner must remain within approximately one hour of Airborne K9, keep their phone on and available to receive calls, and remain capable of responding promptly if Airborne K9 determines that the dog needs to be picked up.
A trial overnight stay may be required even when a dog has successfully completed earlier acclimation sessions if staff determine that additional evaluation is appropriate.
4. Prohibited Handling Practices
Airborne K9 does not use practices that intentionally encourage, facilitate, or rehearse a dog biting a human being as a method of managing or evaluating a client's dog.
Airborne K9 staff will not use catch poles to handle client dogs.
Airborne K9 staff will not wear bite suits, bite sleeves, bite jackets, or other protective clothing for the purpose of allowing a client dog to practice biting or targeting a human.
These practices are not part of Airborne K9's routine bite-prevention, boarding, or handling protocols.
When a dog presents a potential bite risk, our approach is to establish whether the dog can be safely handled and managed—not to intentionally expose staff to a bite or create circumstances in which biting a person is rehearsed.
5. Refusal or Termination of Boarding
Airborne K9 reserves the right to decline boarding or discontinue a boarding stay if staff determine that a dog cannot be safely handled or managed within our facility.
If a dog's behavior changes during a stay and creates a level of risk that staff determine cannot be safely managed, the owner may be required to retrieve the dog.
When reasonably possible, Airborne K9 will communicate concerns to the owner and provide an opportunity to discuss appropriate next steps.
In an emergency situation involving an immediate safety concern, Airborne K9 may take whatever reasonable steps are necessary to protect staff, the dog, and other animals or people present.
6. Bite or Attempted Bite During Care
If a dog bites or attempts to bite an Airborne K9 staff member, the immediate priority will be to safely separate the dog from the person and prevent further injury.
Staff will:
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Secure the dog using appropriate containment or handling procedures.
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Assess the staff member for injury and obtain appropriate medical attention when necessary.
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Notify the owner or emergency contact as soon as reasonably practical.
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Document the incident, including the circumstances surrounding the bite or attempted bite.
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Evaluate whether the dog can safely remain in our care.
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Determine whether additional safety measures, veterinary evaluation, behavioral assessment, or removal from the facility are necessary.
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Comply with applicable reporting requirements.
A bite or attempted bite will be evaluated based on the specific circumstances. Airborne K9 will not assume that every incident represents the same level of risk.
7. Staff Safety
Staff members are expected to use appropriate handling techniques, follow established safety procedures, and utilize appropriate equipment when working with dogs that present an elevated handling risk.
Staff should not unnecessarily place themselves in a situation where they are reasonably likely to be bitten.
Airborne K9 recognizes that bite prevention is a shared responsibility between the business, its staff, and the dog's owner. Accurate information from the owner regarding the dog's behavioral history is an essential part of that process.
8. Owner Responsibility
Owners must disclose known bite histories, attempted bites, aggression toward people, handling difficulties, and other behaviors that could reasonably affect the safety of Airborne K9 staff.
Failure to disclose relevant behavioral information may result in the dog being removed from boarding or other services and may affect Airborne K9's ability to provide future services.
Our goal is not to eliminate every dog that has ever demonstrated an aggressive behavior. Our goal is to ensure that every dog accepted for boarding can be handled safely within the specific environment and procedures of Airborne K9.
When a dog requires additional acclimation, we will take the time necessary to determine whether boarding can be conducted safely rather than placing the dog, our staff, or other animals at unnecessary risk.
Training Methods
Airborne K9's training philosophy prioritizes not only what a dog does, but also how the dog feels and functions while doing it.
Our goal is to develop dogs that understand what is expected of them, are confident in their ability to succeed, and are enthusiastic participants in the training process. We strive to create dogs that want to work with their handlers, rather than dogs that simply comply because they are trying to avoid a consequence.
1. Training With the Whole Dog in Mind
Dogs are not simply a collection of behaviors to be modified. Their emotional state, confidence, motivation, arousal level, environmental awareness, and relationship with their handler all influence their ability to learn and perform.
Airborne K9 trainers consider these factors when developing and implementing training programs.
Training may be adjusted based on the dog's emotional and behavioral state. A dog that is confused, overwhelmed, excessively stressed, fearful, or otherwise unable to effectively learn may require a change in criteria, environment, motivation, training method, or difficulty.
The goal is not simply to produce the behavior. The goal is to produce the behavior while developing a dog that is confident, engaged, and enthusiastic to participate.
2. Building Dogs That Want to Work
Airborne K9 places significant value on developing motivation and enthusiasm for training.
We seek to build dogs that:
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Enjoy working with their handlers
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Are motivated to participate
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Understand how to succeed
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Are confident in their training
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Can work through distractions and challenges
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Develop resilience when they make mistakes
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Maintain engagement with their handler
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Can transition appropriately between high and low states of arousal
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Understand that training is an opportunity to earn reinforcement and accomplish meaningful goals
Training should not become an exercise in simply suppressing unwanted behavior.
We want dogs to learn what we want them to do, not merely what we do not want them to do.
3. Use of Aversives
Airborne K9 does utilize aversive consequences as one component of our training toolbox.
We do not believe that the use of an aversive consequence is inherently inappropriate simply because the consequence is unpleasant to the dog. We also do not believe that an aversive consequence should be used simply because it is available.
Aversive consequences are used selectively and only when the trainer determines that they are appropriate, fair, and necessary within the context of the training objective.
A dog should understand what is expected of it before an aversive consequence is used for failure to meet that expectation.
Aversive consequences should not be used to punish a dog for failing to perform a behavior that it does not understand, cannot physically perform, or has not been appropriately prepared to perform under the circumstances.
The trainer is responsible for establishing the necessary understanding, communication, and training history before increasing the consequence associated with non-compliance.
4. Fairness and Clarity
Fairness is an important component of Airborne K9's training philosophy.
A dog should have a reasonable opportunity to understand:
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What behavior is expected
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What behavior will result in reinforcement
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What behavior will not meet the expectation
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How to respond when it makes a mistake
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How to successfully complete the exercise
As training progresses, expectations may become more demanding through increased duration, distance, distraction, environmental difficulty, or other criteria.
The level of consequence should remain appropriate to the behavior, the dog's understanding, and the circumstances.
We do not believe dogs should be corrected for failing a test they were never taught how to pass.
5. Emotional State and Training Progression
Airborne K9 trainers monitor the dog's emotional state throughout training.
Changes in behavior, engagement, body language, arousal, motivation, and responsiveness may indicate that the current training criteria or environment needs to be adjusted.
This does not mean that training will always be easy or comfortable.
Learning often requires dogs to work through frustration, distraction, uncertainty, and challenges. Appropriate training can and should develop resilience and the ability to remain functional under increasing levels of difficulty.
The distinction is between productive challenge and unnecessary emotional distress.
Our objective is to appropriately challenge dogs while maintaining their ability to learn, think, communicate, and successfully participate in the training process.
6. Individualized Training
There is no single training approach that is appropriate for every dog.
Airborne K9 considers the individual dog's temperament, history, motivation, learning stage, environment, behavior, physical condition, and training goals when determining how training should be conducted.
Training methods and equipment may therefore vary between dogs and may change as an individual dog progresses.
The method serves the training objective; the training objective does not exist to justify a particular method.
7. The Airborne K9 Standard
Our ultimate goal is not merely obedience.
We want dogs that can reliably perform the behaviors their handlers need while maintaining confidence, engagement, clarity, and a willingness to work.
We want dogs that understand how to succeed.
We want dogs that enjoy working with their people.
And we want the relationship between dog and handler to become stronger as training progresses.
Airborne K9 trains for reliable behavior without losing sight of the dog behind the behavior.
We want dogs that don't simply work because they have to—they work because they understand, they trust the process, and they want to work with you.
Client Communications
Airborne K9 considers clear, timely, and honest communication an essential part of providing professional care and training. Effective communication allows us to better understand each dog's needs, keep clients informed, and respond appropriately when circumstances change.
1. Client Responsibilities
Clients are expected to provide Airborne K9 with accurate and current information relevant to the care, training, and safety of their dog.
This includes, when applicable:
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Current contact information
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Emergency contact information
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Veterinary information
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Known medical conditions or medications
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Behavioral concerns
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Bite or attempted-bite history
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Handling difficulties
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Escape or destructive behavior
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Training history
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Known triggers or environmental sensitivities
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Relevant changes in the dog's health or behavior
Clients have a responsibility to disclose information that could reasonably affect Airborne K9's ability to safely care for or train their dog.
Failure to disclose relevant information may create unnecessary risks for the dog, Airborne K9 staff, other animals, or members of the public.
2. Communication During Boarding and Training
Airborne K9 will communicate with clients regarding significant changes, concerns, or incidents involving their dog while in our care.
Routine communication during a boarding or training program may vary depending on the service being provided and the communication expectations established with the client.
Clients should understand that staff may be actively caring for or training dogs and may not be immediately available to respond to every message.
Airborne K9 will make reasonable efforts to respond to client communications within an appropriate timeframe based on the nature and urgency of the communication.
3. Emergency Communication
Clients must remain reachable during periods when Airborne K9 has specifically required them to remain available, including certain acclimation sessions, trial boarding stays, or other situations where immediate communication may be necessary.
Clients are responsible for keeping their phone available and responding promptly when Airborne K9 contacts them regarding an urgent matter involving their dog.
For emergencies involving the dog's health or safety, Airborne K9 will prioritize addressing the emergency and obtaining appropriate care before completing routine client communication.
4. Changes in Health or Behavior
Clients should notify Airborne K9 of significant changes in their dog's health, medication, behavior, or circumstances before the dog arrives for training, boarding, or other services.
A change that appears minor to a client may be relevant to how a dog can safely be handled or trained.
Airborne K9 may modify a dog's training or care plan when new information indicates that a previously established procedure is no longer appropriate.
5. Communication Regarding Training
Airborne K9 will make reasonable efforts to communicate the goals, expectations, progress, and relevant concerns associated with a dog's training program.
Clients are encouraged to ask questions and communicate concerns regarding training methods, equipment, expectations, or their dog's progress.
Airborne K9 believes that effective training requires cooperation between the professional and the owner. Clients should feel comfortable asking why a particular training approach, exercise, management strategy, or piece of equipment is being used.
6. Communication Regarding Incidents
If a significant incident occurs involving a client dog, Airborne K9 will communicate relevant information to the owner as soon as reasonably practical.
Depending on the circumstances, this may include information regarding:
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Injury or illness
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Veterinary care
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Bite or attempted-bite incidents
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Escape or near-escape incidents
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Significant behavioral events
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Damage caused by the dog
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Changes to the dog's care or training plan
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Other circumstances that materially affect the dog's safety or services being provided
Airborne K9 will strive to communicate factual information regarding incidents and distinguish known facts from observations, professional assessments, and information that has not yet been confirmed.
7. Respectful Communication
Airborne K9 expects communication between staff and clients to remain professional and respectful.
Disagreements regarding training methods, care decisions, scheduling, policies, or other matters can be addressed through direct communication.
Clients are encouraged to raise concerns with Airborne K9 rather than allowing misunderstandings to develop.
Likewise, Airborne K9 staff are expected to communicate concerns professionally and respectfully, including when a client's request cannot be accommodated because it conflicts with safety requirements or established policies.
8. Communication and Safety
Communication is an important component of risk management, but it does not replace Airborne K9's responsibility to make reasonable safety decisions while a dog is in our care.
When immediate action is necessary to protect a dog, staff member, another animal, or the public, Airborne K9 may take reasonable action before obtaining client authorization when waiting for authorization could increase the risk of harm.
Airborne K9 believes that good communication is more than simply keeping clients informed. It means creating an environment where clients provide accurate information, staff communicate concerns openly, and both parties can work together to make responsible decisions about the care and training of the dog.