Can I or you legally train dogs in virginia without a permit when your 14? - Yahoo! Answers
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Jessi Jessi
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October 07, 2006
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Can I or you legally train dogs in virginia without a permit when your 14?

Hi, i have a HUGE dream to be a dog trainer. I've made all my flyers, business cards, signs and my calendar but i don't think i really want to apply for a license. do i really need one to call myself a "dog trainer" is it illegal in virginia. not only do i not want to take the time to get one but i also don't think i am the right age. im ONLY 14. I have always loved animals. i do LOTS of community service every week with the Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation to help rescued animal get adopted. I was inspired by Victoria Stillwell and her show "Its Me or The Dog" as well as by Cesar Millan and his show "Dog Whisperer" i have all the books written by both of these people and have numerous books on dog psychology.Can i call my thing a Business without having a permit? I really don't want to interfere with the LAW! thanks for all your help! ♥
  • 2 years ago
GOODD by GOODD
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June 16, 2008
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At 14 no one is going to take you seriously as a dog trainer and pay you to help with their dogs. Even if they did hiring you could violate child labor laws in virginia which usually affect people under the age of at least 15.

And I'm sure you've seen the disclaimer on Dog Whisperer that says "consult a professional before trying these techniques yourself".

If you are paid for services you are a business which means you have to file special paperwork at tax time. Even though you are only 14 you have to claim income, again, there are issues with child labor laws.

What do you plan on doing if one of the dogs you are training bites someone? As the dog's handler you are responsible for that.

If you want to work with dogs go to your local animal shelter. Most have a behaviorist on staff, let her know you want to learn more about training dogs. Go through a couple obedience classes with shelter dogs and apply your knowledge where you can. If you still love training dogs go to school and learn how to be a good dog trainer and find out how to be an AKC recognized trainer.

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Start-up dog trainer
  • 2 years ago
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Other Answers (1)

  • Bare Nekkid TRUTH! by Bare Nekkid TRUTH!
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    Member since:
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    A Top Contributor is someone who is knowledgeable in a particular category.
    I would think that you'd actually have to go thru a program of some kind to legally call yourself a professional dog trainer to get paid for it.

    You can train your own dogs.. but you cant really call yourself a professional to run a buisiness and get paid for it until you've been thru some kind of program.

    At your age.. you can walk dogs, pet-sit and pick up poop to earn money tho.
    • 2 years ago
    0% 0 Votes

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