Truth in Training Ordinance

Hillsborough County’s “Truth-in-Training” Ordinance oversees the regulation of the licensing for dog-training businesses and registration of dog trainers in Hillsborough County, as well as sets parameters for what is expected of the relationship between the trainer and customer.

Read the Truth in Training Ordinance on Municode

What the ordinance covers

• The 'Truth-in-Training' ordinance is designed to eliminate unexpected events during dog training. All techniques and training styles will be discussed and agreed upon prior to the start of training so there are no surprises during the training process.
• Transparent operations are ideal for both the dog owner and the dog trainer/dog-training business. This will help customers better understand the qualifications and procedures of local dog trainers, as well as provide a minimal amount of oversight of dog-training practices.
• As part of the ordinance, dog-training customers must be provided a written dog-training plan that is agreed upon by both the dog’s trainer and owner.
• All dog trainers that provide services in Hillsborough County are required to register with Pet Resources, as well as all dog-training businesses that conduct dog training are required to be licensed to perform dog-training activities.

Dog-training plan requirements

• All dog trainers and dog-training business owners must provide all customers with a written dog-training plan
• The training plan must be signed by both the dog trainer and the customer prior to the start of any dog training and a complete copy of the training plan must be provided to the customer
• All dog trainers and dog-training businesses must abide by the training plan or any written modifications
• Dog trainers and dog-training business owners must provide all customers with a County consumer acknowledgment form
• The County consumer acknowledgment form must be signed by both the dog trainer and customer prior to the start of any dog training and a complete copy of the County consumer acknowledgement form must be provided to the customer
• The County consumer acknowledgment form must be maintained by the dog trainer or dog-training business for four year

FAQs

Notes

• The information provided by registrants and licensees will be handled by Animal Control who will be responsible for any enforcement needs
• Customer complaints, questions, and concerns should be addressed to Hillsborough County Consumer Protection Services
• Information provided is considered public record subject to disclosure as defined by Chapter 119 of Florida Statutes, and may be posted on the County's website