I’m reaching out today to address a tragic event that occurred during a HEAT training session off-site on November 23, 2022.
During a training session a dog sustained an injury which lead to its passing. We immediately let the trainer involved go following the event and they are no longer affiliated with HEAT. As the owner of HEAT, I take full responsibility for this incident. Nothing like this has ever happened at HEAT before, and it is certainly not representative of our training methods or values as a company. This death has caused immense pain to its family and has shaken our team to its core. Our thoughts are with all those who have been affected and traumatized.
I want to let you know that we are doing everything we can to ensure an event like this never happens again. Firstly, I would like to make it clear that this was an isolated incident involving training and does not pose a risk to our daycare or grooming guests.
As some of you already know, I have taken back the training responsibilities. I am uncertain if I will bring in a new trainer in the future, but if I do, they will need to meet an even greater standard of certification. I have also begun a robust training policy that will include certification requirements, animal first aid, and take into consideration the unique needs and vulnerabilities of each dog breed.
Caring for your dogs is a responsibility that we take very seriously and I will do everything possible to protect them and earn your trust. Everyone here loves your pets more than you can imagine. Your trust and support means the world to us. We deeply value the bonds and relationships we have created not only with your dogs, but also you and your families. Something we pride ourselves on is how our team is not just a team but a family, and your dogs become a part of that family.
I also understand that some of you could find this notice too painful and may consider taking your pets out of HEAT. Please know that I am here to answer any of your questions and will respect your decisions no matter what they are. All questions and concerns can be sent to me directly at trevor@myheatcoach.com.
Again, our sincerest apologies to the family and everyone else affected by this event.
Trevor Pettit
Owner
Owner
High Energy Animal Training