Sliding Scale Pricing
It is essential that evidence-based, reinforcement-focused dog training and behavior services are accessible to all who need them. With this in mind, we have designed a set number of sliding scale enrollments for both our training services and our online courses. Below is a description of the sliding scale options, guidelines for what might work for you, and information about how to access these services.
What We Offer
Our sliding scale services are available on a first-come, first-serve basis each month.
Option A: 20% price reduction (pay 80%)
Option B: 50% price reduction (pay 50%)
Option C: 85% price reduction (pay 15%)
We have set number of spots available for sliding scale enrollment each month; if a sliding scale spot is not available at the time of request, it can be reserved for a future month.
Please note that sliding scale programming is not a simple “discount.” If you are able to pay for full-price services, please do - this is how we can ensure that our sliding scale options are available for those who need them.
How to Access
Our sliding scale structure is not based on income alone, and we do not require you to provide any “proof” of need. What you can afford is related to your finances, but it’s not as simple as how much money you make. To qualify for our sliding scale pricing, just tell us you would like to use our sliding scale option, and which option (Option A or Option B) you would like!
We are also able to offer payment plan options; please reach out for more information about payment plans.
Additional Information
Below is some language from Worts + Cunning Apothecary about sliding scale pricing, as well as a graphic.
Here are general guidelines about how I currently price my sliding scale and to help you determine where you fall on it.
The highest dollar cost reflects the true cost of the service. It is the cost that the practitioner would charge all students in the absence of a sliding scale.
This price is for you if you:
Have access to financial security
Own property
Have personal savings
Would not traditionally qualify for sliding scale services.
Are able to pay for "wants" and spend little time worried about securing necessities in your life.
The middle cost reflects the practitioner's acknowledgement that paying the full cost would prevent some folks from being able to attend, but who do not honestly find themselves reflected in either descriptions for the highest cost or the lowest.
This price is for you if you:
Are struggling to conquer debt or build savings or move away from paycheck to paycheck living AND
Have access to steady income AND
Are not spending most of your time thinking about meeting basic needs such as food, shelter, medical care, child care, etc.
However, if you can ask others, such as family members, partners, or friends, for financial support, please consider using those personal resources before you use the resources of the sliding scale and limit opportunities for others.
The bottom cost represents an honest acknowledgment by the practitioner that there are folks whose economic circumstances would prevent them from being a part of classes if there was not a deliberate opportunity made for them to access services at a cost that is reflective of their economic realities.
This price is for you if you:
If you struggle to maintain access to needs such as health care, housing, food, child care AND/OR
Are living paycheck to paycheck AND/OR
Are in significant debt
You deserve a community that honors your price as an equal economic offering as the person who can pay the highest tier.
Please be mindful that if you purchase a price at the lowest end of the scale when you can truthfully afford the higher ticket prices, you are limiting access to those who truly need the gift of financial flexibility. Being honest with yourself and your financial situation when engaging with sliding scale practices grows strong and sustainable communities... Additionally, when I am paid fairly, I am able to invest more time and resources to free and lower cost offerings.