Event Exhibitor and Sponsor Policy

APDT International is committed to advocating for and promoting humane, evidence-based, and positive dog training practices and emphasizes only using methods that foster the well-being and ethical treatment of dogs. Specifically, APDT International takes the stance that no training or behavior cases justify the use of tools that use intentional aversive punishment-based interventions, including “choke collars, prong collars, shock collars, bonkers, shaker-cans, citronella spray collar, or any other tool designed to cause fear, pain, or startle in the dog.

 

Accordingly, producers of aversive training tools—including but not limited to shock collars, prong collars, choke collars, electronic fences, or any device designed, or is used to, intentionally cause pain, fear, or discomfort, are prohibited from participating as exhibitors, sponsors, or advertisers at any APDT International in-person and virtual event, or throughout our online platforms. APDT International will not allow any sponsor, exhibitor, or vendor to sell, exhibit, or advertise any of the above products or demonstrate or exhibit any punishment-based strategies at any APDT event. All partners, exhibitors, and sponsors associated with APDT International must align with our core values and APDT Standards at events.

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APDT International reserves the right to refuse or revoke the participation or promotion of any organization or individual that does not comply with this policy.