Dogs & Kids | Policies

At Iron North, our goal is to provide a welcoming and efficient experience for every member of our community. To achieve this, we’ve established a set of policies designed to ensure fairness, safety, and clarity for all. These guidelines help us maintain high standards of service and protect the integrity of our small business. We kindly ask all guests to familiarize themselves with these policies before participating in classes or services. Please note, we reserve the right to amend and enforce policies as needed to adapt to evolving circumstances and uphold our commitment to a positive environment. Thank you for your understanding and support!

Dogs in the Studio / Workplace

General Policy

Dogs may be allowed in the workplace on a discretionary basis, provided they meet the requirements outlined in this policy. This privilege may be revoked at any time if the presence of dogs is found to interfere with business operations, health and safety, or the comfort of others.

Eligibility & Approval

Only well-behaved, house-trained, and vaccinated dogs are permitted.
Dogs must be approved in advance by gym staff.
Proof of current vaccinations, flea/tick prevention, and municipal licensing may be requested.
Staff must obtain prior approval before bringing a dog on-site, including details about the dog's temperament and routines.

Areas Where Dogs Are Allowed

Dogs are permitted only in designated staff areas (e.g. offices, lounge) unless otherwise approved, leashed or supervised by their owner at all times.
Dogs are not permitted in:
- Fitness studios (unless on a leash or with exceptions for personal training sessions and with staff permission)
- Workout floors during a busy/full class
- Bathrooms or change rooms
- Treatment rooms (e.g. massage or athletic therapy rooms)

Owner Responsibilities

Owners must clean up after their dogs immediately and dispose of waste in designated bins.
Dogs must not exhibit aggressive behaviour, excessive barking, or signs of distress.
Owners must ensure their dogs do not disrupt classes, staff duties, or member experiences.
Dogs must not be left unattended at any time.
Any damage caused by dogs is the financial responsibility of the owner.

Health & Safety

Dogs must not pose any health risk to staff or members (e.g., contagious illnesses, parasites).
Dogs that are sick, recovering from surgery, or in heat are not allowed in the workplace.
A first-aid kit for pets is not available on-site and must be carried by the owner.

Cultural Sensitivity & Inclusion

We recognize that not everyone is comfortable around dogs for cultural, religious, or personal reasons.
Staff and members may request a dog-free space or service, and these requests will be respected with advance notice and communication.
Dogs must not be allowed to approach clients or staff uninvited.

Service Animals

Service animals are always welcome in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Ontario Human Rights Code.
Service animals are not subject to the same restrictions as pets.

Enforcement

Violation of this policy may result in the dog being removed from the premises and/or revocation of athlete privileges.
Continued disregard may lead to disciplinary action.

Children in the Studio / Workplace

General Policy

We aim to create a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all members and staff while allowing children to accompany adults in limited and supervised circumstances. We recognize the importance of family and flexibility—but also the need to ensure safety, cleanliness, and the comfort of all guests.

Who This Applies To

Staff bringing children while working, coaching, or training
Members bringing children while attending classes or using gym facilities

Permitted Scenarios

Children may be allowed in the gym under the following conditions:

They are supervised at all times by a responsible adult (10 & under). Children 10 and over must adhere to studio rules at all times.
Children are not disruptive to classes, coaching, or other members’ experiences
Management has granted prior approval for regular occurrences (e.g. staff regularly coaching with a child present)
A waiver is signed by the parent/guardian accepting responsibility and liability

Restrictions

Children are not allowed in:

Workout areas or on equipment (unless directly supervised and with the parent assuming all risk.)
Group classes unless it is a family- or youth-specific class (some exceptions apply.)
Locker rooms or showers (unless accompanied by an adult and age-appropriate)
Treatment rooms (e.g. massage, physio)

Safety & Supervision

Children under 10 must not be left unattended at any time
Toys, snacks, or personal items must be kept tidy and out of pathways
If a child becomes disruptive, unsafe, or distressed, the adult must immediately attend to them
Iron North is not liable for any injury or incident involving children on the premises

Respecting the Community

Staff and members are asked to be mindful of others' comfort and focus
Staff will not have children’s presence contribute to a lack of engagement in professional duties but are permitted to communicate and assist their child on a limited and as-needed basis.
Members may be asked to reschedule or make alternate childcare arrangements if issues arise

Required Forms

A Child Presence Acknowledgement & Waiver must be completed and approved by management before a child may accompany an adult regularly. One-time exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis. Please ask any staff member to have this waiver form sent to your email address.