Sussex K9 Academy

Privacy Policy

Sussex K9 Academy (“SK9A”, “we”, “our”, “us”) respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal data. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect your information when you use our services, attend training, workshops or seminars, visit our website, or communicate with us.

1. Information We Collect

We may collect the following information from you:

• Personal details: name, address, email, phone number.
• Dog details: name, breed, age, medical history, behavioural history.
• Payment details: payment confirmations (we do not store full card details – Stripe and your bank handle secure payments).
• Media: photos and videos taken during training sessions, pack walks, workshops, or events.
• Communications: messages sent via email, text, WhatsApp, or social media.

2. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

• Provide training, behaviour, boarding, and dog sport services.
• Communicate with you regarding bookings, payments, updates, and training support.
• Keep records for safety, legal, and insurance purposes.
• Share updates, offers, and news (where you have not opted out).
• Improve our services through feedback and record-keeping.
• Use photos/videos for marketing, educational, and training purposes (unless you opt out in writing).

3. Sharing Your Information

We will never sell your data. We may share information only when necessary to deliver services, such as:

• With Bell Reed Kennels & Cattery if your dog attends residential training.
• With veterinary professionals in the event of an emergency.
• With payment providers (e.g. Stripe, your bank) for secure payment processing.
• With guest speakers or external trainers only if you are attending their event and consent is required.

4. Legal Basis for Processing

We process your personal data under the following lawful bases:

• Contractual necessity: to deliver the services you have booked.
• Legal obligation: to meet our legal or regulatory requirements.
• Legitimate interests: to run and improve our business, keep records, and ensure safety.
• Consent: for marketing communications and the use of photos/videos, where you have opted in.

5. Data Storage & Security

• Your personal data is stored securely in password-protected systems and devices.
• Access is restricted to SK9A staff and trusted partners (e.g. Bell Reed Kennels).
• We take reasonable steps to protect data from loss, misuse, or unauthorised access.

6. Data Retention

• Client and dog information is retained for up to 6 years for business, insurance, and legal purposes.
• Media used for marketing or educational purposes may be retained indefinitely unless you withdraw consent.
• You can request deletion of your personal data at any time (unless we are legally required to retain it).

7. Your Rights

Under UK GDPR, you have the right to:

• Access the personal data we hold about you.
• Request correction of inaccurate or incomplete data.
• Request deletion of your data (“right to be forgotten”).
• Restrict or object to processing of your data.
• Withdraw consent for marketing at any time.
• Request transfer of your data to another provider.

To exercise your rights, email us at info@sussexk9academy.co.uk.

8. Cookies & Website Use

• Our website may use cookies to improve user experience and analyse website performance.
• You can disable cookies in your browser settings, but some features may not function correctly.

9. Updates to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Updates will be posted on our website, and continued use of our services will be taken as acceptance of the updated policy.

10. Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns about how your data is used, please contact:

Email: info@sussexk9academy.co.uk

Address: Sussex K9 Academy, TN21, East Sussex, UK

If you are not satisfied with how we handle your data, you also have the right to lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO): www.ico.org.uk.